Does My Insurance Cover My Plywood on My Roof?
If you’ve recently discovered damage to your roof, you may be wondering if your insurance policy covers the plywood sheathing (or roof decking) under your shingles. While your roof’s shingles or other outer materials are your first line of defense against the elements, the plywood decking plays an equally essential role in keeping your home dry and structurally sound. Understanding if your insurance policy covers the costs to replace or repair this plywood decking depends on several factors, including code requirements, manufacturing standards, and the specific coverages in your insurance policy. Let’s break down these details to clarify what you can expect.
Understanding Code Requirements for Roof Decking
Roof decking, typically made of plywood or OSB (Oriented Strand Board), is the layer that provides structural support for roofing materials and ensures the roof can hold up under the weight of shingles, tiles, or metal panels. Many areas have building codes requiring roofs to be “solidly sheathed,” meaning that all gaps are closed, and the decking is structurally sound to support the roofing system securely. These codes often specify certain decking types, thicknesses, and attachment methods based on local climate and wind zone requirements. Some jurisdictions may also mandate a specific type of material or thickness for solidly sheathed decking, particularly in areas prone to high winds, heavy rainfall, or snow loads.
If you’re replacing your roof, inspectors often examine the condition of the decking. If it doesn’t meet the updated codes, you may be required to replace or upgrade it, which can increase your overall roofing costs. Given that policies and carriers have different allowances and expectations for what constitutes a covered loss or covered expense – make sure you have your agent or adjuster confirm coverages prior to commencing work.
Manufacturing Standards and Quality Requirements for Plywood Decking
Most building codes defer to the guidelines set forth by plywood and OSB manufacturers regarding standards for thickness, load-bearing capacity, and installation. For instance, the APA – The Engineered Wood Association recommends that roof sheathing be at least ⅝” thick for heavier roofing materials or in areas with high snow loads. Thinner plywood may not provide adequate support or could warp over time, leading to further damage.
Quality standards also impact costs. Higher-grade plywood and OSB can be more resistant to moisture and warping, making them longer-lasting and more robust choices for roof decking. However, these materials come at a premium price. When considering insurance coverage, it’s helpful to check if your policy limits you to “like-kind” materials or if it allows for upgrades to higher-grade options.
Additionally, when it comes to situations where the roof has slat decking (decking constructed with 1×4’s, 1×6’s, or 1×8’s most commonly) the gaps may not allow for nails to fasten securely. In these instances the shingle manufacturer may require plywood or OSB be placed over the slats, while others may call for the removal of the slats and the installation of the new sheathing directly to the rafters. Make sure to always familiarize yourself with your shingle manufacturer’s expectations before committing to an installation method.
Does Home Insurance Cover Roof Decking?
Typically, standard home insurance policies cover sudden and accidental damage to the roof, such as damage from storms, falling trees, or fire. If the roof decking is damaged as a result of one of these covered events, your insurance may pay for its repair or replacement. However, there are several nuances:
- Code Upgrade Coverage: Standard policies generally don’t include coverage for code upgrades. This means if the local building code requires thicker or sturdier decking than what you have, your insurance may not cover this added expense unless you have an Ordinance or Law endorsement. This add-on policy provision, sometimes called “code upgrade coverage,” covers the extra cost of bringing your home up to current building codes. It’s a wise option to consider, especially if you have an older home with outdated materials.
- Wear and Tear Exclusions: Insurance companies typically consider issues like wood rot, warping, or wear-and-tear on the decking as routine maintenance. If your decking is failing due to age or neglect, this likely won’t be covered. However, sudden damage resulting from a covered peril (such as a fallen tree) may include decking replacement if the damage compromises the roof’s structural integrity.
- Water Damage and Leaks: If a roof leak results in damage to your decking, coverage may depend on the source of the leak and whether it was sudden or gradual. Leaks caused by gradual wear may not be covered, while sudden damage due to a storm could be eligible. Additionally, adding roof decking coverage to your policy, if available, can offer added protection.
Expected Costs for Roof Decking Replacement
Replacing roof decking can be a significant expense, as plywood prices fluctuate with market conditions. Here’s a rough estimate of potential costs:
- Material Costs: Plywood decking costs typically range from $15 to $50 per sheet (4×8 feet), with OSB often priced slightly lower. Higher-grade materials or thicker plywood for reinforced structures may cost $60 to $100 per sheet.
- Labor Costs: The cost of removing old decking and installing new decking can add an additional $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot. On average, a 1,500-square-foot roof with significant decking replacement needs could run anywhere from $2,500 to $5,000 in labor costs alone, depending on the roof’s pitch, accessibility, and complexity.
- Code Upgrades: If your local code requires more expensive decking, such as thicker plywood or additional fasteners, these upgrades can add $500 to $2,000 or more to your roofing costs. Without a code coverage endorsement, you’d bear these costs out-of-pocket.
Final Thoughts: Is Decking Covered?
The bottom line is that standard insurance policies often cover roof decking damage when it results from a sudden, covered event like a storm or falling debris. However, gradual deterioration and code-required upgrades generally fall outside standard coverage. Adding ordinance or law coverage is an option to help cover costs if your decking needs to meet updated building standards. Knowing what’s in your policy and budgeting for any out-of-pocket expenses can save you from unwelcome surprises during a roof replacement or repair.
Always consult your insurance provider to understand your specific policy details and consider an annual review to ensure you’re adequately protected against unexpected costs, especially for structural components like roof decking.