Hail-Resistant Roofs May Save Money In Colorado

Each year, thousands of roofs are replaced in the United States because of hail damage.

Hail batters the shingles, breaking them and causing tiny cracks that allow rain and other moisture to seep under the surface. Once inside the structure, the moisture can ruin ceilings, walls and more. This subsequent damage can be difficult and expensive to repair. Hailstorms cost the property and casualty insurance industry, and consequently consumers, an average of $1.5 billion annually.

How can property owners minimize the impact hail has on their most valuable possession—their homes—and save on insurance costs? By using roofing materials that are impact resistant. Farmers Insurance offers discounts up to 16 percent on homeowners insurance in Colorado if roofing materials meet certain impact-resistance requirements.

"Most homeowners think about their roofs about the time the first hailstone hits," said Rion Groves, Farmers Colorado State Executive Director. "Considering a new roof during summer and fall when demand is lower may save some headaches in the spring."

Colorado is especially vulnerable to hail. A 1996 analysis of hail fall in the previous 10 years indicated the eastern third of Colorado averages up to eight days of large hail annually. Large hail is a hailstone measuring 3/4-inch in diameter or larger. The western half of the state experiences an average one to four days of large hail each year.

"Many roofing materials are hail resistant and often are no more expensive than lesser-quality materials," said Groves. "In the long run, consumers may save on annual insurance costs through discounts and by not replacing roofs and paying the deductible as often."

• Farmers applies a discount of up to 16 percent to quality roofs depending on materials used and manufacturer warranties extended.
• Farmers applies a discount of up to 8 percent on asphalt/fiberglass combinations and dimensional asphalt roof materials warranted by the manufacturer for a minimum of 30 years; or weighing 300 pounds or more per square foot installed over solid plywood decking and felt underlayment.
• Farmers applies a discount of up to 16 percent on products made of concrete or cement/fiber mix and warranted for a minimum of 30 years, or products warranted by the manufacturer for a minimum of 15 years against damage from hailstorms.

Shake shingle wood roofs may be attractive but they're one of the most hazardous roofing materials available. Not only are they not energy-efficient—letting cool air out in the summer and allowing warm air to escape in the winter—but they are highly susceptible to fire and storm damage. Many insurance companies, including Farmers, apply a surcharge to wood shingle roofing material.

Take Cover from Hailstorms
Late summer can bring severe weather, especially hailstorms. While much of the hail that fails every year is small enough to do little damage, hail can be deadly. Hail can travel at speeds greater than 100 miles per hour and reach the size of a grapefruit.

Here are some tips to limit hail damage to your property:

• Hail is often produced by heavy thunderstorms, so take precautions if under a thunderstorm watch or warning.
• Move cars into a garage or under a carport. If no shelter is available, toss a blanket over the vehicle to limit damage.
• Give animals shelter; pets and livestock are particularly vulnerable to hail.
• If you have time, try to collect possessions from the yard that could be damaged by hail or strong winds that often accompany hailstorms.