Last year, I was about to put a new roof on my house and thought, “I should probably talk to my agent about what makes the most sense from an insurance perspective.”
It turns out, your roof plays a much bigger role in your insurance rates than you might expect — especially here in Western North Carolina, where rain, wind, and the occasional hailstorm are just part of life in the mountains.
The material you choose matters. Two of the most common options — asphalt shingles and metal roofs — can impact both your protection and your premiums in different ways.
Architectural Shingles: Reliable and Familiar
Most homes around Brevard have asphalt shingle roofs. They’re affordable, easy to replace, and come in styles that work with just about any home.
What I learned: shingles are dependable, but they do wear down faster — typically lasting around 20 years. They’re also more vulnerable to wind and hail, which can lead to damage over time.
Insurance takeaway:
- Newer roofs or impact-resistant shingles might qualify for a small discount.
- Older shingle roofs can sometimes mean higher premiums or stricter inspections.
If your shingles are curling or you’re getting close to replacement age, it’s worth getting ahead of it before your renewal comes up.
Metal Roofs: Tough, Long-Lasting, and Often Insurance-Friendly
Metal roofs have been popping up more and more around here, and it’s easy to see why. They stand up to almost anything — wind, rain, snow, and even fire — and can last 40–70 years.
What I learned: insurance companies tend to love metal roofs. They’re less likely to leak, blow off, or catch fire, which means fewer claims and potentially lower rates.
Insurance takeaway:
- You may see lower premiums with a newer metal roof.
- Some policies exclude cosmetic damage like dents, so be sure to ask your agent.
The upfront cost is higher, but over time, a metal roof can save you money through durability, fewer repairs, and possibly lower insurance costs.
My Best Advice
If you’re thinking about replacing your roof, give your insurance agent a quick call before you make a final decision. The type of material you choose can affect your coverage, discounts, and even which carriers are available to you.
At Brevard Insurance, we help you protect your home from the top down.
Whether you’re installing new shingles or upgrading to metal, our team can make sure your policy reflects your roof’s true value — and that you’re getting the best protection for your money.