Building resilient roofs in the insurance era

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how severe weather, insurance pressures and resilient roofing materials are reshaping decisions for contractors and homeowners. 

As severe weather becomes more frequent and widespread, roofing materials are playing an increasingly important role in how insurers, contractors and homeowners protect properties and manage risk. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Karen Edwards spoke with Brenda Perkins, insurance advocacy consultant for Brava Roof Tile, about the relationship between weather, insurance coverage and resilient roofing systems. Brenda joined Brava after spending approximately 30 years in executive roles with three national insurance carriers. 

Reflecting on changes she has observed across the country, Brenda emphasized, “The storms are happening more frequently.” She added, “You have storms that are more widespread, they’re more severe, they’re causing more damage.” As insurers respond to those conditions, they are paying closer attention to roofing materials with strong impact and wind ratings. Brenda explained that the UL 2218 test grades materials from Class 1 through Class 4, with Class 4 representing the highest impact rating. Brava products carry a Class 4 impact rating and are rated to withstand winds up to 160 mph. 

Fire resistance is another growing concern as drought and high winds increase wildfire risks in multiple regions. Brenda noted that Brava roofing has a Class A fire rating and that the company works with regulators and organizations focused on mitigation, education and community resilience. 

For contractors, these changing conditions create opportunities to help homeowners understand long-term performance and the potential value of investing in more resilient roofing. Financing programs, insurance discounts and state grant programs may also help some homeowners manage the upfront cost. 

Brava supports contractors through three levels of training, installation resources and access to local representatives. Recognizing the importance of proper installation, Brenda cautioned, “You can have the best product, but let’s be honest, if it’s not installed correctly with the right screws or nail count or sealings or underlayment, it’s still not going to be the best product.” 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how resilient roofing systems can help contractors and homeowners navigate severe weather and changing insurance expectations!