Differentiating Natural Roof Deterioration and Roof Damage

Throughout its lifetime, your roofing system can sustain all sorts of damage. This can happen naturally due to the constant exposure to the weather elements, but other damage can come from severe weather events. If it’s the latter, you should be covered by your homeowners’ insurance. Wear and tear, though, is usually not covered. 

How is roof damage from normal deterioration so different that your policy doesn’t cover the repair costs? Reputable roofing company Diamond Roofing Specialists, Inc. explains more below:

Understanding Normal Roof Wear and Tear

Certain types of damage can occur on your roof naturally as it ages over time. The reason why insurance doesn’t cover these is that it’s the responsibility of the homeowner to prevent them from happening through regular care and maintenance. This means if you notice a leak coming from the ceiling, it must be reported to your insurance agent immediately instead of waiting until water damage has affected other parts of your roof. 

Even if emergency repairs aren’t needed, the roof should still be closely monitored as they can indicate other types of damage. Common types include: 

• Faded shingle colors – This type of damage may not need immediate repairs, but it can indicate the end of your roof’s lifespan. Constant exposure to direct sunlight can cause your shingles to look lighter than they originally were.

• Exposure to Sunlight – In most residential roofing systems, the west- and south-facing roofs tend to age faster. They’re more exposed to the sun and its UV rays, which cause your roof to age faster.

• Dark Spots – These are often caused by granule loss over time. They’re technically considered natural wear and tear as well, so if you have an insurance policy, it won’t cover this type of damage.

What Your Insurance Only Covers

Routine maintenance is usually necessary to prevent your insurance from voiding. But keep in mind that it doesn’t cover damage resulting from your roofing system’s natural wear and tear. However, it does cover severe and unexpected damage from extreme weather such as a snowstorm. 

Your insurance policy typically covers roof damage that can become too costly to repair if they weren’t immediately addressed. These can include missing/damaged shingles, wind damage, roof sag, damaged vents and flashing, and so on. If your roof recently suffered major damage and is insured, make sure to file a claim before it affects the rest of your roofing system. If you wait too long, your insurance provider may not approve your insurance claim because it wasn’t addressed immediately. 

As a reputable contractor in quality roofing services, Diamond Roofing Specialists, Inc. always gets the job done right. Call us at (203) 754-7884 or through our convenient online form! We serve Waterbury, Danbury and the neighboring CT areas.