Researchers Find Roofing Answers Following Multi-Million Dollar Texas Storm

A major hailstorm that pelted a 200-mile-long path of Texas proved to be a real-world laboratory for researchers looking at roofing products and impact protection.

The results of the research project, which included a review of more than 300,000 insurance policies, are featured in the Spring 2005 issue of Disaster Safety Review, a journal published by the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS).

The April 2003 hailstorm was one of the costliest disasters to ever hit
Texas, with estimated total statewide insurance payments reaching
$885 million, predominantly stemming from hail damage.

Of the nearly 80,000 claims filed by homeowners throughout the northern suburbs of Dallas and Fort Worth following the storm, the researchers identified notable trends in losses with respect to hail size, roof type and impact-resistant status of the roof.

Among the most important conclusions was that the claims rate on homes with impact-resistant roofs was 55% lower than for policies on homes without impact resistant roofs.

Other important findings shed light on the relative performance and claims patterns of asphalt (composition) shingle, metal, tile and wood roofs when subjected to hail impact.

The issue of Disaster Safety Review also features results of a consumer survey about attitudes toward tornado shelters. The results underscore the importance of ongoing public awareness and education about tornado safety.

Request a copy of Disaster Safety Review by calling toll-free
1-(866) 657-IBHS (4247), or view the publication on the IBHS Web site, http://www.disastersafety.org .