Avoiding Filing Another Insurance Claim with Proper Roof Maintenance

Roof Maintenance Tips to Prevent Another Insurance Claim

Do you want to avoid the annoying process of filing an insurance claim? You can do so by taking care of your roof with these preventative measures:

• Choose Materials with Longevity in Mind

You can select new roofing materials, such as shingles, when installing a new roof. Look for a shingle maker that offers the longest warranties at a price you can afford. Some shingle manufacturers provide a 30- to 40-year warranty, while others have a limited lifetime warranty. In this case, the manufacturer will not pay for all roof damage.

Let’s consider some basic facts about roofing shingles. It is useful to know the distinction between oxidized asphalt shingles and polymer-modified shingles. These are the two most common types of shingles. For over a century, asphalt shingles have been the standard for roofing. 

Dimensional shingles have a higher wind rating and last longer than 3-tab shingles. So, have your contractor install them if you like this design and can afford it. Dimensional shingles have a wind rating of 110 to 130 miles per hour and a lifespan of 30 to 50 years. These features depend on weather and thickness.

Likewise, traditional 3-tab shingles only last 20 to 25 years and can withstand winds up to 60 miles per hour. The difference in cost between the 2-tab and 3-tab versions is insignificant. Therefore, it is not a good indicator if your contractor recommends the cheaper 3-tab style.

The other major category is polymer-modified shingles. They look similar to asphalt shingles but are made of superior materials. Their interior is made of a rubber compound, which makes them more flexible. Also, it helps them withstand impacts from hail and falling objects. 

Probably, your insurance will not pay for them in full because they are an “above and beyond” variety of shingles. But there are a few good reasons to get them anyway:

Without impact-resistant shingles, your roof might suffer damage during a storm. Thus, you will need to file an insurance claim and pay for your deductible.

Typically, insurance companies offer up to a twenty percent discount for using this shingle. Before purchasing, check with your insurance agent to see whether you qualify for a discount.

• Consider the Algae Rating of the Shingles 

Another factor to consider is the algae rating of the shingles you are considering. The higher the rating, the more probable the shingles will not turn a bluish-green hue from years of algae development. Algae and lichen can speed up the deterioration of roof shingles. Thus, seek shingles that include algae resistance.

Typically, manufacturers of such shingles include a lifespan estimate for algae resistance. After that period, you may need to make a mild wash to eliminate any remaining algae.

• Use Mild Cleansers When Appropriate

You can remove roof algae and lichen with a soft wash using a mild chemical spray. It is necessary to engage a professional roof cleaning and maintenance service to ensure using the proper formulation. Doing the wash yourself, or hiring someone not competent or certified, might leave your roof discolored. This result is the opposite of what you want! 

Likewise, never power wash your roof because you might wash away those protective granules on your roof.

Industry-Leading Roofing Services

Have you just experienced storm damage? Or maybe you are considering a new roof. In any case, you have probably got more questions than you know what to do with.

This moment may be stressful for many people, from dealing with insurance claims to selecting the right roofing materials. But it does not have to be! You may have a fully worry-free experience with whatever roofing service you want when you go with Republic Roofing.

For more information, contact Republic Roofing at 901-437-5278. We service Lakeland, Germantown, Bartlett, Memphis, and Collierville, TN areas.