Secondary Water Barrier (SWR)
A Secondary Water Barrier is like an additional or backup system underneath the primary roofing covering. We prowdly install GAF Weatherwatch for situations where SWR is requested (or required).
In Florida, a secondary water barrier is an optional component with our GAF roofing systems, particularly in hurricane-prone areas, to provide additional protection against water intrusion. This barrier acts as a safeguard in case the primary roofing materials, like shingles or tiles, are damaged or blown off during severe weather events.
Lets take a deeper look into a few “SWR” related topics:
Purposes of a Secondary Water Barrier:
- Enhanced Water Resistance:
It minimizes the risk of water seeping into the home if the primary roofing material is compromised, protecting the structure and interior. - Compliance with Florida Building Code (FBC):
Florida mandates secondary water barriers for certain roofing projects, particularly during re-roofing or new installations, to improve building resilience. - Hurricane Protection:
Strong winds and flying debris during hurricanes can damage roofs. A secondary water barrier provides a fail-safe, keeping water from penetrating the decking and causing widespread damage. - Mold and Rot Prevention:
By reducing water intrusion, the barrier helps prevent the conditions that lead to mold growth and wood rot, ensuring the home remains safe and healthy. - Insurance Benefits:
Many insurance companies offer discounts or incentives for homes equipped with a secondary water barrier, recognizing its role in mitigating potential damage during storms.
Common Types of Secondary Water Barriers:
- Self-Adhering Modified Bitumen Underlayment: Applied directly to the roof decking, this material seals around nails and provides a watertight layer.
- Taping of Roof Deck Joints: Sealing joints between plywood or OSB panels with specialized tape to prevent water intrusion.
Adding a secondary water barrier is an investment in durability, safety, and long-term savings, especially for homeowners in Florida’s challenging climate.
Insurance may provide you a lower rates for SWR
Insurance companies offer discounts for homes with a secondary water barrier on the roof because this feature significantly reduces the risk of costly water damage during severe weather events, particularly in hurricane-prone areas like Florida. Here’s why:
- Reduced Risk of Claims
A secondary water barrier minimizes water intrusion even if the primary roofing materials are damaged or blown off during a storm. This means fewer insurance claims for water damage, mold, and structural repairs, saving insurers money. - Enhanced Home Resilience
Homes with secondary water barriers are better equipped to withstand hurricanes and heavy rains, reducing the likelihood of catastrophic damage that would lead to large insurance payouts. - Lower Repair Costs
The barrier prevents water from penetrating the roof deck and entering the home, avoiding costly repairs to ceilings, walls, insulation, and personal property. This translates to fewer high-cost claims for insurance companies. - Compliance with Building Codes
Florida’s Building Code mandates secondary water barriers for re-roofing projects, especially in wind-borne debris regions. Homes meeting these standards are seen as lower risk, and insurers incentivize compliance with discounts. - Encouraging Preventive Measures
By offering discounts, insurance companies encourage homeowners to invest in preventive measures like secondary water barriers. This proactive approach lowers risks for both the homeowner and the insurer.
Example Discount Impact:
Homes with enhanced protection, including secondary water barriers, may qualify for wind mitigation credits, leading to significant reductions in insurance premiums. These savings make it financially beneficial for homeowners to adopt additional protective measures.
Conclusion:
Insurance discounts for secondary water barriers align with insurers’ goals to reduce claims and incentivize safer, more resilient homes, ultimately benefiting both homeowners and the industry.
