Architectural Testing certification of concrete roof tile products has been recognized by the insurance industry, MonierLifetile announces, providing
Architectural Testing certification of concrete roof tile products has been recognized by the insurance industry, MonierLifetile announces, providing homeowners and builders the benefit of reduced insurance premiums as well as protection of property from hail damage. One of the most costly natural disasters, hail reportedly causes more than $1.6 billion worth of damage to residential roofs in the U.S. during an average year.
An industrywide test for concrete roof tile employed Factory Mutual (FM) 4473 methodology, involving 1.25- to 2-in.-diameter ice balls shot at terminal velocity to strike three different locations on a single unit. To successfully complete a test, each tile had to withstand six hits without breaking or showing any visible cracks upon impact. Class 1 through Class 4 ratings were based on the size of ice balls used as projectiles [Class 1 Û 1.25 in.; Class 2 Û 1.5 in.; Class 3 Û 1.75 in.; Class 4 Û 2 in.]. Among test results, MonierLifetile’s standard-weight flat tiles achieved the highest rating of Class 4, while all other products attained a Class 3 rating.