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Asphalt Roofs: The Lowdown on Policy and Insurance Changes in the US

Posted On Wednesday, 15 October 2025 13:36
Asphalt Roofs: The Lowdown on Policy and Insurance Changes in the US Photo by Ryan Stephens: https://www.pexels.com/photo/professional-roofer-installing-shingles-on-new-roof-33404248/

Asphalt roofs have been around for several decades. These shingles comprise an affordable roofing solution for thousands of homeowners across the US. If you maintain them adequately, asphalt roofs can last for around 20 years or more.  

However, lately, policy and insurance circles have been brimming with resistance toward asphalt roofs. 

The increasing intensity of climate change has increased the frequency of inclement weather. NASA data from 2024 shows a ‘notably active’ Atlantic hurricane season with 18 storms and as many as 11 hurricanes. The devastation that Helene caused in states like South Carolina and Florida is still fresh in the minds of all those who suffered.

These incidents have sparked active evaluations of conventional roofing solutions in the real estate sector. Does asphalt suffice any longer? Let us explain!

The Current Policy Landscape on Roofing

Currently, the US does not restrict the use of asphalt shingles for roofs. Indeed, it remains the most commonly used material, probably because it is so budget-friendly. There is no federal mandate yet that bans asphalt shingles for residential or commercial properties.

Even then, the roofing sector is undergoing a period of fluctuations and uncertainty. President Trump’s policies on tariffs have led to price increases and a slowdown in job growth in the sector.  Consequently, many contractors are adjusting their quotes with fluctuating supply costs. 

Projects are also experiencing frustrating delays due to material shortages. Supply Chain Dive reports that tariffs have triggered delays and layoffs for construction workers. They also led to a 6% hike in input costs in May 2025.

Moreover, the government has not introduced relief for metal roofing products. As a result, steel and aluminum still incur 50% tariffs. In these circumstances, it seems doubtful that clients will react positively to suggestions of alternative (and much more expensive) roofing materials. 

Insurance Bodies Incentivizing Alternate Materials

The policy scenario of asphalt roofing is reassuring for homeowners who don’t have the budget or time for a substantial project on their hands. However, a considerable push is coming in from the insurance sector, primarily in states like Florida.

In late 2024, the Florida Office of Insurance Regulation suggested that an asphalt shingle roof may become an unfavorable factor for calculating the homeowner’s premium. Instead, more resilient alternatives, such as metal and concrete, may allow customers to get credit. 

The scenario stems from how homes with more robust roofs handled the impact of hurricanes Helene and Milton better than those that weren’t built to code. 

The growing sentiment may cause more insurance providers, especially in other risk-prone states like South Carolina, to increase premium payments for homes with asphalt roofs. Seneca also experienced situations of tree-fall-induced damage to roofs, another concern that weaker materials may struggle to handle.

From a future-proofing standpoint, homeowners considering a new roof installation in Seneca, SC, and neighboring areas should explore their options. For example, fortified roofs have become a feasible choice. Their ability to withstand strong winds is commendable.

Either way, it is crucial to conduct a roof inspection and regular maintenance in these turbulent times. SureFlow Roofing recommends biannual roof inspections in the spring and fall, along with prioritizing industry-leading practices for installation or repair.

Likely Future Direction for Asphalt Roofing

As time passes, it will become imperative to reconsider some of our real estate choices. Sustainability and durability cannot be good-to-have but optional features. In this context, asphalt roofing may dwindle in its popularity as more homeowners consider options that are more reliable.

The impetus from insurance companies is only likely to deepen this sentiment, making such exploration necessary for managing premium costs. Homeowners should learn about materials like ceramic and metal, if their budget allows. While their upfront costs are steep, their longevity and resilience can render them cost-effective.

A sustainability focus is also driving the growth of eco-friendly roofing materials, such as terracotta and slate. A Research and Markets report predicts a growth rate of over 10 percent for green building materials from 2024 to 2030. The need for energy-efficient construction and compliance with city planning guidelines can propel this growth.

Real estate companies can benefit from reevaluating their procurement strategies to optimize purchasing and stocking before more price hikes. They should also be open to alternative products that the tariff increases may not affect and that consumers may appreciate.

Asphalt roofing has stood the test of time due to its numerous bonuses: affordability, quick installation and maintenance, and reasonable longevity. While recent weather events have raised questions about our real estate decisions, it is unlikely that their phasing out will be sudden or rapid. 

Instead, it seems more practical to aim for higher product standards for all roofing products, including asphalt shingles. Stricter building codes and continuous maintenance can extend the lifespan of aging roofs, even when they are made from traditional materials.  

Perhaps the future will see a richer mix of roofing materials across various projects—durable and aligned with the needs of diverse communities.

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