That's correct. What most don't realize is an architectural shingle should have a significantly higher wind rating which in our area is what you want. Also, most don't realize how damage to your home creates such significant inconvenience and stress. It's just not worth it to save a little money and create a potentially huge risk to your home.

shingles
 

today they do I believe 6 nails instead of three and really that's the difference. also better glue strips to keep them sealed ...

I enjoy your posts, VT. You seem to do your research, employ best practices in your responses — including kindness — and are always helpful. Thank you. Regarding roofs: we had ours replaced after doing a lot research. First, to your immediate Q: we learned of no difference on insurance rates for different shingle manufacturer or type of shingle used. A bit puzzling to me. And, we went through a similar thought/planning process and concluded with the selection of a highly reputable (but more expensive) roofing company who, coincidentally, did a lot of the original roof installations in this northern part of TV (2004, etc). The originals all have held up well in this part of TV. A plus, in my mind. And, we picked a higher grade architectural type shingle this time around, and an excellent underpayment (both NOT the highest grade they sell) and went with both choices. And we are very happy with choices and the installation. Yes, we paid a bit more than necessary and our shingles may outlive us. My daughter is a high end realtor in the coastal NE and she suggested (as she sees it home resales) that picking a reputable company and a very good shingle also helps in the resale of the house — if, and when. She said many of her informed buyers want to know who “did the roof”, when it was last done, and what manufacturer and type of shingle was used. She said: “ keep the records” on the roof — for possible resale time. Anyway, that’s one opinion. Best of luck in your query.

Agree!
 

Our home in NC fell victim to Hurricane Irene in 2011. We had a roof failure and it did make a mess. Turned out the roof was finished with a CHEAP shingle that had the look of architectural shingle but was actually a basic 3 tab. The original owner cheaped out on everything when he built.
In the end we replaced with the higher quality shingles just for peace of mind. Don't think The Villages is safe from hurricanes. We are farher inland than there and still had damage.

Appreciate this post. Knowing coastal New England well and the types of properties you speak of, I think high end developers and their clients are using efficient, state of the art roofing systems. Translation; money is not an obstruction. You can’t cheap out on a high end home as I’m sure your daughter will agree, all the parties involved will know. That said, TV, exclusive of its more pricier subdivisions, employ more standard, budget friendly systems. As a documentation freak, your advice on good record keeping is well received.

Self Insured Roofs?
 

Has it ever been looked into about possibly getting the population together and start a self insurance company that would cover roofs only. Maybe have qualified trust worthy inspectors and take care of the members roofs as they are truely required. Remove the regular Homeowner Insurance company completely when it comes to roof related repairs or replacements. It would be a lot of work for sure but in the end it may work out if enough homeowners got involved in it. Just an idea, maybe a crazy one.

The problem with the insurance industry is that it is very heavily regulated by the Federal and State governments. The HO-3 homeowners policy is written by the state, and all insurance companies must provide the same coverage. They cannot exclude the roof from the policy, even if they wanted to. That is why some insurance companies decide to stop selling policies in some states.

How much does insurance go up when your roof hits 15 years? Or will they not even cover you then?
Curious to know before I hit that mark soon enough.

I bought the best shingles offered. Cost was a bit less than $3,000 more. I figure if the roof does not blow off, and the leakage and water damage are minimized or non existent, I saved $1 million in hassle and trouble. If not, I squandered a little of my children’s inheritance.

I replaced my roof at age 20 years. My homeowners insurance sent me $540 refund of premium for the ten months left in the policy period.

I will bet that all those Assignment of Benefits (free) roofs have the cheapest shingles installed.

Had same thoughts!!!

Insurance companies do look at these roofs. Problem was that it would cost them 10X more than the cost of the new roof if the insured proved damages were legit. Used the word WAS in last sentence since legislators changed the laws making it less likely that suits will be filed on these ?able claims

Would not bet against you and the insurance company probably paid 20% more than the market rate.