Wind Mitigations and how to save money
What's the purpose of a Wind Mitigation?
When an insurance company is trying to evaluate the risk vs. cost ratio for their insurance premiums, they use a wind mitigation report from a qualified inspector. This will show them some basic information that shows the strength and type of protection the property has against high wind and impact. We’re going to show a few examples and what to look for in an inspection, so that you can understand what you have, and perhaps improve your property’s strength and protection.
How to save money.
Certain locations throughout the United States offer incentives and discounts for home owners who take steps to protect their homes from wind damage. These are typically known as “Wind Mitigation Credits.” Check with your current insurance agent, to see what discounts you’re receiving, and what additional steps you can take to increase these “Wind Mitigation Credits.” Here are some things that you can do to increase your protection to wind, and typically result in an insurance discount:
- Secondary Water Resistance or SWR: This is an extra layer of protection to prevent water from entering into your home. It is labeled on the report as a “Self adhering polymer modified bitumen roofing underlayment applied directly to the sheathing or foam SWR Barrier (not foamed on insulation).” We know, it’s sounds confusing. For the first type, you’ll have to speak with a roofer if they’re able to verify if your roof has that type of SWR. Sometimes you can tell through the roofing permit. For the second type of SWR, you can see it in your attic. It’ll look like a huge layer of foam on the underside of your roof.
- Roof to Wall Attachment: This refers to the way your roof and exterior walls connect, at the very ends of your rafters. A strong connection ensures that your roof won’t easily blow away. From weakest to stronger, there are “Toe Nails” (large nail that is driven at an angle into the top plate of the wall), metal clips, single wraps (metal strap that goes over the rafter), double wraps, and a few other types.
- Impact-rated windows, doors, and garage doors, as well as shutters: These window or door coverings can protect the home by sealing the home from high pressure differences in a hurricane. Shutters can help prevent broken windows or doors by large projectiles, helping your home withstand a hurricane.
Do your research, talk to your agent.
Protecting your home ultimately falls into your hands. We recommend you studying the cost benefit, and types of ways of protecting your home, before making any major decision. We also recommend calling your insurance agent, and verify what steps you can take to protect your home better, and what incentives/discounts they offer. Finally, have the home inspected by a qualified home inspector and speak to a qualified contractor to quote what the changes would cost. Once you start making these changes, you can significantly see your insurance premiums going down, while having the peace of mind knowing that you and your home is that much safer.