When it comes to roofing, the discontinuation of materials can present significant challenges for homeowners. The most significant challenge is that a roof becomes non-repairable once the roofing material is discontinued. If a homeowner’s roof becomes non-repairable, then the homeowner may need to pay our of pocket for a complete roof replacement or make a claim on their homeowners’ insurance and ask for an adjuster to come and perform a roof inspection. Depending on the expertise of the adjuster, the homeowner could get approved for a complete roof replacement paid for by their homeowners insurance or the adjuster may be able to source the discontinued material from a supplier that deals with discontinued materials. This post delves into the reasons behind discontinuation, the impact on roofing projects, and practical strategies for dealing with these materials.
Identifying Discontinued Roofing Materials
Understanding which roofing materials have been discontinued is the first step in addressing the issue. Manufacturers may discontinue materials for various reasons, including regulatory changes, market demand shifts, or advancements in technology. Signs that a roofing material might be discontinued include dwindling stocks at local suppliers, absence from the manufacturer’s current catalog, and announcements from the manufacturer. Recognizing these signs early can save time and prevent potential project delays. Some roofing contractors including Sol Vista Roofing have lists in their internal archives of discontinued products and they can help you determine if the shingles are discontinued or not. Another resource is ITEL. ITEL is a company based in Florida who specializes in identifying building materials. They do charge a fee but often times the insurance company will pay that fee or the roofing contractor that you are working with will pay the fee. If you want an unbiased opinion you may want to pay the fee yourself. Another company named NTS can also help you identify the roofing material for a fee.
Common Types of Discontinued Roofing Materials
There are many different types of discontinued roofing materials ranging from asphalt to clay tiles. Some common types of discontinued asphalt roofing materials are called T-Lock shingles, Certainteed Horizon Shingles, Certainteed Capstone, Atlas Chalet, Owens Corning Classic 20, and more. There are numerous concrete tile roofing materials that are discontinued and recently with the buyout acquisition of Boral Roofing by Westlake Roofing, there are many Boral tiles that are discontinued. Heinz tiles are also discontinued and if you have Heinz tiles then the only suitable substitute is called Ludowici which is very expensive. Most insurance companies won’t want to pay for a damaged Ludowici tile and you will need a very skilled roofing professional to help your claim get approved.
Strategies for Handling Discontinued Materials
Navigating the discontinuation of roofing materials requires a multifaceted approach. One strategy is sourcing from leftover stocks or specialized suppliers who may still have access to these materials. Another approach involves repairing existing materials rather than replacing them, which can be a viable option if the damage is minimal. When these strategies are not feasible, finding alternative materials that match the aesthetics and functionality of the original is crucial. This might involve consulting with roofing experts or manufacturers for suitable replacements that ensure the integrity and appearance of the roof remain intact. A repair can still be costly although much less than a replacement. Often times these kind of repairs do not come with a warranty. If you are working with a skilled Roofing Contractor such as Sol Vista Roofing then the contractor can give the proper documentation to your insurance company to show that your roof is not repairable. You can also work with a Public Adjuster who can advocate on your behalf and they also charge a fee. A lawyer who understands insurance claims can also help you get a roof replacement approved by your insurance if you have discontinued roofing materials and they also charge a fee although your out of pocket could be kept to a minimum.
Conclusion
Dealing with discontinued roofing materials can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge and strategies, it’s possible to navigate these challenges effectively. By identifying discontinued materials early, sourcing wisely, and considering alternative solutions, homeowners and professionals can maintain their roofs’ quality and appearance without compromising on safety or aesthetics.