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Does the Age of Your Roof Affect Insurance Rates? Everything Homeowners Need to Know
When it comes to protecting your home, few elements are more important—or more scrutinized by insurance companies—than your roof. A common question we hear from homeowners in Northeast Ohio is: “Does the age of my roof affect my homeowners insurance rates?”
The short answer is: Yes. The age, condition, and materials of your roof can all have a significant impact on your insurance premiums, eligibility, and even claim approvals.
In this blog, we’ll explore how roof age factors into insurance rates, why it matters to your insurer, what you can do to keep your costs down, and how S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC helps homeowners in Jefferson, Youngstown, Cleveland, and across Ashtabula County stay protected with professional roofing solutions.
Table of Contents
- Why Insurance Companies Care About Your Roof
- How Roof Age Affects Your Insurance Premiums
- Roof Lifespan by Material
- Roof Age and Coverage Limits
- Can You Be Denied Coverage for an Old Roof?
- Tips for Lowering Your Insurance with a New Roof
- How to Know If It’s Time to Replace Your Roof
- Insurance Discounts for Impact-Resistant Roofing
- How S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC Can Help
- Final Thoughts
1. Why Insurance Companies Care About Your Roof
Insurance companies calculate risk. Since your roof is your home’s first line of defense against weather damage—rain, hail, snow, wind, and falling debris—it’s one of the most important factors in their risk assessment.
If your roof is old or poorly maintained, insurers view your home as a higher risk. That increases the chance of expensive claims, especially after a storm or extreme weather event.
Key Risk Factors Insurers Assess:
- Age of roof
- Type of roofing material
- Roofing system ventilation
- Recent repairs or upgrades
- Installation quality
- Local weather patterns (snow, hail, wind)
This is why many insurance companies request roof documentation during underwriting or at policy renewal.
2. How Roof Age Affects Your Insurance Premiums
Older roofs typically raise your insurance rates—sometimes substantially. Why? Because as a roof ages, its materials weaken, making it more likely to leak, collapse, or be damaged by wind or hail.
Here’s how roof age impacts your policy:
| Roof Age | Insurance Premium Impact |
|---|---|
| 0–10 years | May qualify for discounts |
| 11–15 years | Standard rates, may need inspection |
| 16–20 years | Higher premiums likely |
| 20+ years | Premium spikes or coverage denial possible |
Some insurers even refuse to cover roofs over 20 years old unless recently inspected or replaced. Others may only insure them on an actual cash value (ACV) basis instead of replacement cost value (RCV), which significantly reduces your reimbursement in the event of a claim.
3. Roof Lifespan by Material
Not all roofing materials age at the same rate. Here’s an overview of common roofing types and their expected lifespans:
| Roofing Material | Average Lifespan |
|---|---|
| 3-tab Asphalt Shingles | 15–20 years |
| Architectural Shingles (e.g., Owens Corning Duration®) | 25–30+ years |
| Metal Roofing | 40–70 years |
| Wood Shakes | 20–40 years |
| Clay Tile | 50+ years |
| Slate | 75–100+ years |
Insurance companies factor in the material type, too. Architectural shingles and metal roofing are generally seen as more durable and lower risk, which can help reduce your insurance rates.
4. Roof Age and Coverage Limits
Even if your policy is active, the age of your roof can limit the scope of your coverage. Here’s how:
1. Replacement Cost Value (RCV)
Covers the full cost to replace the roof with new materials (minus deductible).
- Often available for newer roofs (under 10–15 years old)
- Premiums are slightly higher but provide better protection
2. Actual Cash Value (ACV)
Depreciates the value of your roof based on age and condition.
- Often applied to roofs over 15–20 years old
- Leads to lower payouts after damage
- Could leave you footing a large part of the bill
If your roof is 20+ years old, there’s a chance your insurer will only offer ACV coverage—if they insure the roof at all.
5. Can You Be Denied Coverage for an Old Roof?
Yes. Insurance companies in many states (including Ohio) have the right to refuse coverage or renewals if your roof is deemed too old or in poor condition.
Common reasons for denial:
- Roof is over 20 years old with no inspection record
- Roofing layers exceed code (e.g., multiple layers of shingles)
- Signs of rot, sagging, missing shingles, or structural damage
- Roof not built to modern codes or standards
In some cases, you may be given a short window to replace or repair the roof or risk policy cancellation.
6. Tips for Lowering Your Insurance with a New Roof
Installing a new roof is an investment—but one that can save you hundreds (or thousands) in insurance costs over time.
Ways to lower your insurance premiums:
- Choose Impact-Resistant Shingles: Products like Owens Corning Duration® with SureNail® Technology can qualify you for discounts.
- Install Proper Ventilation and Flashing: Insurers look for good attic airflow and water protection.
- Ask About Discounts: Some insurers offer policy discounts for certified roofing systems.
- Use a Certified Contractor: Hiring a certified Owens Corning contractor ensures installation meets industry and manufacturer standards.
- Keep Documentation: Save your invoices, product warranties, permits, and before/after photos.
Pro tip: Always notify your insurer when you upgrade your roof. Many homeowners miss out on savings simply by failing to report their new installation.
7. How to Know If It’s Time to Replace Your Roof
Not sure whether your roof needs replacing? Here are some red flags to look for:
- Curling or cracked shingles
- Frequent leaks or ceiling stains
- Granules collecting in gutters
- Visible sagging or structural damage
- Moss or algae growth
- Storm damage that compromises function
- Your roof is 15+ years old
Even if it seems “fine,” insurance companies may not share that opinion. Proactive replacement can save you money in premiums, future repairs, and denied claims.
8. Insurance Discounts for Impact-Resistant Roofing
Insurance companies often reward homeowners who choose impact-resistant roofing, which is better able to withstand hail, wind, and debris.
Owens Corning Duration® Series: A Smart Choice
These shingles include:
- SureNail® Technology for improved wind resistance
- Class A fire resistance rating
- High-definition, fade-resistant colors
- 130 MPH wind warranties
- Limited lifetime warranties when installed by certified contractors
Many insurers offer up to 25% off premiums for homes with Class 4 impact-resistant shingles—depending on the region.
9. How S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC Can Help
At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we specialize in helping Northeast Ohio homeowners protect their homes and investments.
Why Choose Us?
✅ Certified Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
✅ Expert Roof Inspections
✅ Free Estimates and Financing Options
✅ Over 100 5-Star Google Reviews
✅ Licensed, Bonded, and Insured
✅ Quick Turnarounds for Time-Sensitive Projects
✅ Serving Jefferson, Cleveland, Youngstown, and Surrounding Areas
We don’t just install roofs—we help you understand how your roof affects your home insurance, resale value, energy costs, and safety.
10. Final Thoughts: Roof Age and Your Insurance Future
In today’s unpredictable climate and insurance market, understanding how the age of your roof impacts your insurance premiums and policy eligibility is more important than ever.
Here’s the bottom line:
- Older roofs cost more to insure
- They may lead to coverage limitations or denials
- A new, impact-resistant roof can save you money on premiums
- Proper documentation and certified installation are key to protecting your investment
Whether your roof is due for a full replacement or you just want a professional inspection, S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC is here to guide you through the process. We’ll make sure your roof is not just strong—but a smart financial decision for your family and your future.
Get a Free Roofing Estimate Today
If your roof is 15+ years old, or if you’re worried about rising insurance premiums, contact S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC. We’ll provide a free, no-obligation estimate and help you explore financing and warranty options.
📍 Proudly Serving Northeast Ohio:
Jefferson • Madison • Mentor • Cleveland • Ashtabula • Youngstown • Chardon • Concord • Euclid • Painesville • Beachwood • Twinsburg and more!
📞 Call now or visit our website to schedule your inspection.
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