Wind Mitigation & Your Roof Choice (Building Decisions That May Mean Lower Insurance Premiums)


Building a new home is full of many decisions, one of them being the type of roof your home will have. Today, let’s look into the differences between a Gable Roof and a Hip Roof and how choosing one over the other could be a game-changer for your wind mitigation insurance premiums.

The Gable Roof: 
Imagine a child’s drawing of a house; that simple roof drawing is likely a gable roof. It has two slopes that meet at the top to form a triangle, with two sides covered in roofing material and the other two sides being the home’s walls.

The Hip Roof:
In contrast, a Hip Roof has all its four sides sloping downwards to the walls, forming a sturdy and symmetrical structure. It’s like giving your house a snug, well-fitted cap.


Why Consider a Gable Roof?
It’s simple and cost-effective to build and great for water runoff. However, its shape can be less stable in high winds, which will raise your wind mitigation insurance premiums.

Why Consider a Hip Roof?
Stability: Due to its uniform slope on all sides, a hip roof is very stable and holds its ground firmly, even against strong winds and storms.
Lower Insurance Premiums: Its resilient nature can lead to lower wind mitigation insurance premiums, saving you money year after year!
Aesthetically Appeal: Beyond practicality, hip roofs also have a pleasing, balanced look that can elevate the aesthetic appeal of your home.


Insurance Savings:
In areas with frequent high winds or storms, insurance companies reward homeowners who opt for wind-resistant features, like a hip roof, with lower premiums. It’s their way of acknowledging your smart, proactive choice, which reduces the risk of damage and, subsequently, insurance claims.

Building with the Future in Mind:
Choosing a hip roof might come with a higher initial building cost compared to other roof styles, like the gable roof, but the long-term benefits like reduced insurance premiums and added stability can make it a worthy investment.

The Practical Beauty of Hip Roofs:
The design is not just about looks; it’s practical too! The slopes allow rainwater to easily run off, reducing the risk of water damage. Plus, the uniform design ensures balanced distribution of weight, adding to the overall stability of your home.

Making Informed Decisions:
When building your new home, taking a moment to consider the long-term impacts of your choices can lead to lasting benefits. A hip roof might cost more initially, but the peace of mind from knowing your home has an added layer of protection against the elements, coupled with potential insurance savings, will make it all worthwhile.

Final Thoughts:
Opting for a hip roof is like choosing a secure, stylish, and savings-friendly hat for your new home. It's a choice that marries aesthetics, stability, and economy, helping you build a home that's resilient and cost-effective in the long run. Ultimately, this decision will bring many benefits for years to come.

We Are Here To Help
Feel free to call us if you have questions at 407-319-4608. You may also schedule your inspection or find additional information on our website.

*Images from InterNACHI