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What Is a Brittle Test?

A brittle test is a physical inspection where shingles are bent by hand to assess flexibility and age-related deterioration. Insurance companies frequently use test results to deny roof replacement and approve only minimal repairs.

Insurance adjusters or roofers perform brittle tests by physically manipulating your asphalt shingles to determine if they’ve become too fragile from aging. If you’re a homeowner in Colorado Springs facing a brittle test result that threatens your claim, understanding this inspection method can help you protect your rights and challenge questionable findings.

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How Insurance Adjusters Perform Brittle Tests

The brittle test is a subjective, hands-on evaluation without standardized procedures across the insurance industry.

The Basic Test Method

Step 1: Shingle selection

The adjuster chooses several shingles to test, typically from various roof areas. They may select shingles from high-exposure areas like south and west-facing slopes, test corners where wind damage is common, or check areas with visible aging or wear. The number of shingles tested varies by adjuster and company policy.

Step 2: Physical manipulation

The adjuster physically bends or flexes the selected shingles. Common techniques include lifting a shingle tab and bending it backward 90-180 degrees, folding a corner of the shingle toward the center, pressing and flexing the shingle surface, or attempting to tear or separate the shingle layers.

Step 3: Observation and documentation

The adjuster watches for signs of brittleness including immediate cracking when bent, breaking or snapping with minimal pressure, inability to flex without damage, separation of granules or mat layers, or powdery residue when manipulated.

Step 4: Photographic evidence

Adjusters photograph the test process showing the shingle before testing, during the bend or flex, after testing with any cracks visible, and multiple angles of failed tests.

Step 5: Claim decision

Based on test results, the adjuster determines whether shingles are too brittle for repair coverage, whether the roof has reached end of useful life, whether storm damage is secondary to aging, and what depreciation should apply.

Problems with Brittle Test Methodology

The brittle test has significant flaws that homeowners should understand.

No standardization exists. There’s no industry-wide standard for how much force to apply, what angle to bend shingles, how many shingles to test, or what constitutes “passing” versus “failing.” Different adjusters from the same company may reach opposite conclusions on identical roofs.

Testing damages shingles. The test itself causes damage by bending shingles beyond their design parameters. Shingles are engineered to lie flat, not to be folded 180 degrees. Even healthy shingles may crack under extreme manipulation. The test essentially breaks shingles to prove they’re broken.

Subjective interpretation dominates. What one adjuster calls “brittle,” another might consider normal aging. The amount of force applied varies by adjuster. Temperature during testing affects results dramatically. Personal bias influences interpretation of results.

Temperature dramatically affects results. Cold shingles are naturally less flexible and more prone to cracking during tests. Hot shingles are more pliable and less likely to fail. Testing time of day changes outcomes significantly. Colorado’s temperature swings mean morning tests differ from afternoon tests.

Cherry-picking test locations skews results. Adjusters may select the oldest, most weathered shingles. They might avoid newer or better-maintained sections. They could test only south/west exposures with maximum UV damage. Location selection predetermines outcomes.

What “Brittle” Actually Means

Understanding brittleness helps you evaluate whether test results are fair and accurate.

Technical Definition

Brittleness refers to a material’s tendency to fracture or break with little elastic deformation. In roofing terms, brittle shingles crack or break when bent rather than flexing and returning to their original shape.

Healthy asphalt shingles contain oils and polymers that provide flexibility. The asphalt coating allows limited bending without damage. Granules protect the asphalt from UV degradation. The fiberglass mat provides tensile strength.

As shingles age, UV exposure evaporates volatile oils, oxidation hardens the asphalt, thermal cycling causes molecular breakdown, and granule loss exposes asphalt to accelerated weathering.

Normal Aging vs. Premature Brittleness

Not all brittleness indicates a failed roof or justifies claim denial.

Normal aging (expected brittleness): A 20-year-old roof with 3-tab shingles shows reduced flexibility, some surface cracking in high-exposure areas, gradual granule loss over time, and decreased oil content from UV exposure. This is normal wear and tear that doesn’t automatically disqualify storm damage claims.

Premature brittleness (unusual deterioration): A 5-year-old roof showing extreme brittleness, a 10-year-old architectural roof cracking like 3-tab, severe brittleness in shaded or low-exposure areas, and uniform brittleness suggesting manufacturing defects or improper installation may indicate problems beyond normal aging.

Storm-accelerated brittleness: Hail impacts can fracture the mat structure. Wind damage can stress and weaken shingles. Moisture infiltration can degrade asphalt. Storm damage may cause brittleness that wasn’t present before the event.

Factors That Cause Brittleness

Multiple factors contribute to shingle brittleness, not all of which should disqualify insurance coverage.

Age and UV exposure: Normal degradation occurs over 15-30+ years. UV radiation breaks down asphalt compounds. Higher altitudes increase UV exposure significantly. Colorado Springs at 6,035 feet experiences 25% more UV than sea level locations.

Climate and weather: Extreme temperature cycling causes expansion and contraction stress. Daily 50°F+ temperature swings in Colorado are common. Intense sun exposure on south and west-facing slopes accelerates aging. Low humidity dries out asphalt oils.

Poor quality materials: Cheap 3-tab shingles age faster than architectural options. Thin asphalt coating provides less protection. Inadequate UV inhibitors accelerate breakdown. Economy-grade shingles may become brittle in 10-15 years.

Inadequate ventilation: Trapped attic heat bakes shingles from below. Temperatures can exceed 170°F in poorly ventilated attics. Heat accelerates asphalt degradation by 30-50%. Poor ventilation shortens roof lifespan substantially.

Installation issues: Over-driven nails create stress points. Improper nailing patterns concentrate force. Missing starter strips expose edges. Poor flashing allows moisture penetration.

How Brittle Tests Affect Insurance Claims

Brittle test results directly impact claim outcomes, often to the homeowner’s disadvantage.

Common Claim Scenarios

Scenario 1: Full claim denial

The adjuster performs a brittle test, finds shingles crack when bent, concludes the roof failed due to aging not storm damage, and denies the entire claim. The homeowner is left with documented storm damage (hail dents on vents, gutters, etc.) but no coverage because shingles are deemed “too brittle.”

Scenario 2: Partial approval with heavy depreciation

The adjuster acknowledges some storm damage exists but argues brittleness indicates advanced age. They apply extreme depreciation (60-80%), leaving minimal actual cash value. The homeowner receives $3,000-5,000 on a $20,000 replacement when they needed $15,000-18,000.

Scenario 3: Repair-only vs. replacement denial

The adjuster approves repairs for obvious damage but denies full replacement. They claim brittleness prevents safe walking during repairs. The “solution” offered is inadequate patching. The result is a patchwork roof that will fail again soon.

Scenario 4: “Roof has reached end of useful life”

The brittleness test becomes evidence the roof is “worn out.” The insurer argues no further coverage is warranted. They may drop coverage or require replacement before renewal. The homeowner faces surprise non-renewal letters.

Insurance Company Arguments

Insurers use brittle test results to support several denial arguments.

“The damage is from wear and tear, not the storm.” They claim brittleness proves aging caused the damage. Storm damage is secondary to deterioration. Coverage exclusions for wear and tear apply. Even if hail occurred, it only damaged an already-failing roof.

“The roof is beyond its useful life.” They argue brittle shingles indicate end of lifespan. Policies don’t cover roofs past useful life. Depreciation reduces value to near-zero. Replacement isn’t economically justified.

“Repairs would cause additional damage.” They claim walking on brittle shingles would break more. Repairs are impossible without causing harm. Therefore, they’re not obligated to attempt repairs. The policy doesn’t cover replacement due to brittleness.

“Normal weathering isn’t covered.” They label brittleness as normal weathering. Policies exclude gradual deterioration. UV exposure is “expected” damage. No sudden, accidental loss occurred.

Policy Language and Coverage

Understanding your policy helps evaluate brittle test claims.

Standard homeowner’s policy coverage: Covers sudden and accidental direct physical loss. Includes wind and hail as named perils. Typically covers resulting damage from covered perils. May include “resulting loss” or “ensuing loss” clauses.

Common exclusions cited: Wear and tear, deterioration, or mechanical breakdown. Inherent vice, latent defect, or gradual deterioration. Weathering, rust, mold, or wet or dry rot. Birds, vermin, rodents, insects, or domestic animals.

The key question: Did a covered peril (hail, wind) cause damage to a functional roof, or did aging alone cause failure? Brittle tests are often used to shift the narrative from “storm damage” to “aging,” even when both factors are present.

When Roofs Become Brittle

Brittleness develops over time through predictable processes.

Timeline of Shingle Deterioration

Years 1-5 (New roof): Shingles are flexible and resilient. Full oil content and polymer additives remain. Granule coverage is complete. Sealant strips are fully bonded. Brittle tests would show excellent flexibility.

Years 6-10 (Early aging): Slight oil evaporation begins. Minor granule loss in high-wear areas appears. UV exposure starts affecting surface layers. Flexibility decreases slightly but remains good. Most shingles pass brittle tests easily.

Years 11-15 (Middle age): Noticeable granule loss on south/west slopes develops. Asphalt begins hardening from UV exposure. Some surface cracking may appear. Flexibility is reduced but acceptable. Brittle tests show mixed results depending on test location.

Years 16-20 (Approaching end of life for 3-tab): Significant granule loss exposes black asphalt. Curling at edges and corners occurs. Cracking becomes more common. Brittleness increases substantially. Tests often show cracking, especially in cold weather.

Years 20+ (Extended life for architectural): Architectural shingles may still function. Premium shingles often have life remaining. 3-tab shingles are typically at end of life. Brittleness varies widely by quality and maintenance.

Accelerating Factors in Colorado Springs

Colorado’s climate accelerates the aging process significantly.

High-altitude UV exposure: At 6,035 feet elevation, UV intensity is 25% higher than sea level. The thinner atmosphere provides less UV filtration. Year-round intense sun exposure occurs. South and west-facing slopes age 30-40% faster.

Extreme temperature cycling: Daily temperature swings of 50°F+ are common. Expansion and contraction stress materials constantly. Summer roof temperatures can exceed 160°F. Winter temperatures drop below 0°F regularly. This cycling breaks down asphalt molecular structure.

Low humidity and dry air: Colorado’s arid climate dries out asphalt oils. Moisture content in shingles decreases. Shingles become more prone to cracking. Less moisture means less flexibility.

High winds: Frequent 40-60 mph winds are normal. Gusts to 100+ mph occur during Chinook events. Wind stress weakens sealant bonds. Lifting and flexing cycles accelerate aging.

The Colorado Springs reality: A roof rated for 30 years nationally may only last 20-25 years here. Brittleness develops sooner than manufacturer warranties suggest. Insurance companies may not account for climate acceleration. Homeowners face premature aging that feels unfair.

Challenging Brittle Test Results

If a brittle test threatens your claim, you have options to dispute findings.

Documentation Strategies

Request complete testing documentation: Ask for photos of every shingle tested showing location on roof, before/during/after test images, temperature at time of testing, and number of shingles tested versus total roof area. Insufficient documentation weakens the insurer’s position.

Note test conditions: Record the date and time of testing. Document weather conditions (temperature, wind, sun). Note if testing occurred in cold morning hours. Observe whether the adjuster applied excessive force. Cold-weather testing produces unreliable results.

Photograph the entire roof: Take wide shots showing overall condition. Capture different exposures (north, south, east, west). Document areas that look better than tested sections. Show shingles that appear functional and intact.

Gather maintenance records: Collect previous inspection reports. Obtain contractor assessments from before the storm. Find photos showing pre-storm condition. Demonstrate the roof was functional before the covered event.

Counter-Arguments to Present

“The test itself caused the damage.” Shingles aren’t designed to bend 180 degrees. Extreme manipulation exceeds normal use parameters. Healthy shingles will crack under excessive force. The test proves only that shingles break when intentionally broken.

“Testing was performed in cold weather.” Temperature dramatically affects flexibility. Morning testing when shingles are cold yields false negatives. Industry standards recommend testing in moderate temperatures. Request re-testing in warmer conditions (60°F+).

“Sample size is too small.” Testing 3-5 shingles on a 3,000 sq ft roof is statistically insignificant. That’s 0.1-0.2% of total shingles. Cherry-picking worst areas doesn’t represent the roof overall. Request testing of randomly selected shingles from all exposures.

“Storm damage occurred regardless of age.” Hail damaged a functional roof that was performing as designed. Age is irrelevant if storm damage exists. Policies cover storm damage to aging roofs unless specifically excluded. Resulting loss clauses may cover damage exacerbated by brittleness.

“The roof was properly maintained.” Regular inspections were performed. Maintenance records show diligence. The roof passed previous inspections. Premature failure suggests manufacturing defects or storm acceleration.

Getting an Independent Inspection

A second opinion from a qualified roof consultant can challenge brittle test findings.

Hire a certified roof inspector: Look for Haag Certified inspectors with forensic training. Find professionals experienced in insurance disputes. Choose someone who understands Colorado-specific factors. Ensure independence from roofing contractors (avoid conflict of interest).

Request comprehensive testing: Test a statistically significant sample (minimum 10-15 shingles). Test shingles from all roof exposures (north, south, east, west). Conduct testing at optimal temperatures (60-80°F). Document methodology completely.

Obtain a written report: Get detailed findings with photos and measurements. Include analysis of test methodology used by insurance adjuster. Provide opinion on whether roof was functional before storm. Address whether storm damage exists independent of age. Have the report cite industry standards and best practices.

Consider laboratory testing: For disputed claims, send shingle samples to a materials testing lab. Lab testing provides objective, scientific analysis of asphalt content, granule adhesion, mat tensile strength, and flexibility compared to new shingles. Lab reports carry significant weight in disputes.

Escalation Options

If initial disputes fail, consider formal escalation.

File a formal appeal: Most insurers have internal appeals processes. Submit your independent inspection report. Reference policy language supporting coverage. Request review by senior adjusters or engineers. Document everything in writing.

Invoke appraisal clause: Many policies contain appraisal provisions for dispute resolution. Each party hires an appraiser. Appraisers select a neutral umpire. The panel determines actual damage amount. This avoids litigation costs.

File a complaint with Colorado Division of Insurance: The state regulator investigates bad faith practices. File online at colorado.gov/dora/division-insurance. Document unfair claim handling. The Division can pressure insurers to reconsider.

Consult an insurance attorney: For significant claims or clear bad faith, legal representation may be necessary. Colorado has consumer protection statutes. Attorneys often work on contingency for insurance disputes. Bad faith claims can include penalties beyond policy limits.

Colorado Springs Specific Factors

Local conditions affect both brittleness development and insurance claim outcomes.

Why Colorado Springs Roofs Age Faster

The Front Range environment is uniquely harsh on roofing materials.

Elevation and UV intensity: At 6,035 feet, UV radiation is 25% more intense than at sea level. The atmosphere is thinner, providing less UV filtration. Colorado receives 300+ days of sunshine annually. Cumulative UV exposure over 20 years equals 25+ years in lower elevations.

Temperature extremes: Summer highs exceed 95°F regularly. Winter lows drop below 0°F frequently. Daily temperature swings of 40-60°F are common. Roof surface temperatures can reach 160°F+ in summer. This thermal stress accelerates material breakdown.

Hail frequency: Colorado Springs experiences significant hail events every 1-3 years. Hail damages shingles, accelerating aging. Impacts fracture granules and mat structure. Even non-penetrating hail weakens shingles over time.

Wind exposure: Frequent 40-60 mph winds stress sealant bonds. Chinook winds can gust to 100+ mph. Wind uplift causes micro-damage accumulation. Windblown debris impacts shingles repeatedly.

Insurance Claim Landscape in Colorado

Colorado’s hail-prone climate creates a unique insurance environment.

Higher claim frequency: Colorado has among the highest property insurance claim rates nationally. Hail claims dominate homeowner insurance in the Front Range. Insurers scrutinize Colorado claims heavily. Brittle tests are used more aggressively here than in other states.

Carrier-specific approaches: Some insurers are known for routine brittle tests. Others rarely perform them. Claim handling varies dramatically by company. Some carriers have left the Colorado market entirely due to claim costs.

Regulatory environment: Colorado Division of Insurance has specific rules on claim handling. Time limits exist for claim decisions. Bad faith penalties can be substantial. Knowing your rights helps in disputes.

When to Test Your Own Roof

Proactive testing can prepare you for future claims.

Before filing a claim: If considering a claim, assess brittleness first. If shingles are very brittle, expect adjuster to test. Prepare documentation of storm damage. Gather evidence of pre-storm functionality.

After a denial: If claim is denied due to brittleness, get independent testing. Compare results to insurer’s findings. Document discrepancies. Use as basis for appeal.

Before policy renewal: If your roof is aging, check condition. Some carriers require roof inspections at renewal. If inspection will show brittleness, consider replacement before forced non-renewal. Proactive replacement gives you control of timing and contractor choice.

Common Questions About Brittle Tests

Is a brittle test required by insurance companies?

No, brittle tests are not required by law or standard industry practice. Insurance companies choose to perform them at adjuster discretion, typically when they suspect age-related deterioration or want to limit claim payouts.

Many claims are handled without brittle tests at all. The test is most common when roofs are 12+ years old, visible aging is present, homeowners have filed multiple claims, or high-value claims are involved. Some insurance companies use brittle tests routinely in Colorado due to frequent hail claims.

If an adjuster says a brittle test is “required,” that’s company policy, not law. You have the right to question the methodology and results. Request documentation of their testing procedures. Ask for company policy on brittle testing. Consider getting your own independent testing.

Can I refuse to let an adjuster perform a brittle test?

Technically yes, but it’s rarely advisable. Your insurance policy likely includes a provision requiring you to cooperate with the claim investigation. Refusing access or testing could be grounds for claim denial. Obstruction can be considered breach of policy terms.

Instead of refusing, you have better options. Request to be present during testing so you can observe the methodology. Ask the adjuster to explain their testing procedure. Document the test with your own photos and videos. Note temperature and weather conditions. Request testing be performed in moderate temperatures, not extreme cold.

If you’re concerned about brittle test manipulation, hire your own inspector before the adjuster arrives. Get your own assessment and documentation. Have your inspector present during the adjuster’s test. This creates accountability and provides comparison data.

How can I tell if my roof is too brittle?

You can perform a simple visual and tactile assessment, though it’s not as conclusive as professional testing.

Visual indicators of brittleness include curling or cupping at shingle edges, surface cracking visible from the ground, significant granule loss exposing black asphalt, brittle or crumbly appearance, and shingles that look dried out rather than supple.

Simple DIY checks include gently pressing a shingle—does it feel rigid and hard versus slightly flexible? Check if granules come off easily with light rubbing. Look for small cracks at corners when you carefully lift an edge. Examine gutters for excessive granule accumulation.

Warning signs requiring professional assessment include visible cracks appearing without manipulation, shingles breaking or tearing in normal weather, pieces of shingles in gutters or yard, and the roof age approaching 75% of expected lifespan (15+ years for 3-tab, 20+ for architectural).

For Colorado Springs homes, consider professional inspection every 3-5 years after year 10, annually after year 15, after major storms regardless of age, and before filing insurance claims if the roof is over 10 years old.

What temperature should brittle tests be performed at?

Industry best practice recommends performing brittle tests at moderate temperatures, ideally between 60-80°F, as this represents normal functional conditions.

Temperature dramatically affects results. Cold temperatures (below 50°F) make shingles less flexible, causing them to crack more easily during testing. This produces false positives for brittleness. Hot temperatures (above 90°F) make shingles more pliable, potentially masking actual brittleness. Morning testing in Colorado Springs often occurs at 40-50°F, which is unfairly harsh.

If your adjuster performs testing in cold conditions, challenge the results. Request re-testing during warmer conditions. Note in your documentation: “Testing performed at 45°F on 11/20/24 at 8:00 AM.” Point out that midday testing at 65°F would yield different results. Industry standards support moderate temperature testing.

Temperature effects are especially relevant in Colorado Springs where morning-to-afternoon temperature swings of 30-40°F are common. A test at 8 AM might show brittle failure, while 2 PM testing on the same day might show acceptable flexibility.

Does a failed brittle test automatically mean my claim is denied?

No, a failed brittle test doesn’t automatically result in denial, though insurers often treat it that way. The key question is whether storm damage occurred to a functional roof, regardless of age.

Your policy likely covers sudden and accidental loss from named perils like hail and wind. If you can prove storm damage occurred, brittleness doesn’t negate coverage unless your policy specifically excludes roofs over a certain age. Many policies don’t have age-based exclusions.

Arguments to make after a failed brittle test include documenting that storm damage exists independent of age (hail hits on vents, gutters, flashings prove storm occurred). The roof was functional before the storm, performing its designed purpose. Brittleness may have been caused or accelerated by storm damage itself. Policy language doesn’t exclude coverage based solely on age or brittleness.

Some insurance companies will still provide actual cash value (ACV) coverage even on brittle roofs. They’ll apply depreciation but not deny entirely. This is more fair than complete denial. If facing denial, push for at least ACV coverage.

How much does an independent brittle test cost?

Independent roof inspections with brittle testing typically cost $300-800 in Colorado Springs, depending on roof size, complexity, and report detail.

Basic inspection and brittle assessment runs $300-400 for a standard home. This includes visual inspection, physical testing of multiple shingles, photographic documentation, and written summary of findings.

Comprehensive forensic inspection costs $500-800 and includes detailed testing of 15-20+ shingles from all exposures, temperature-controlled testing, measurements and scientific methodology, written report citing industry standards, and expert testimony availability if needed.

Laboratory testing of shingle samples adds $200-500 per sample and provides scientific analysis of material properties, tensile strength measurements, comparison to new shingle standards, and objective data for disputes.

This investment often pays for itself by securing proper claim payout or preventing wrongful denial. On a $20,000 roof claim, spending $500-800 for proper documentation can recover $10,000-15,000 in otherwise denied benefits.

Related Roofing Terms

Asphalt shingles: The most common roofing material tested for brittleness, made of fiberglass mat coated with asphalt and topped with ceramic granules.

Granule loss: Loss of protective ceramic granules from shingle surface, often accelerating brittleness by exposing asphalt to UV damage.

Shingle aging: The natural deterioration process of asphalt shingles over time, including loss of oils, UV damage, and increasing brittleness.

Actual Cash Value (ACV): Replacement cost minus depreciation, often heavily reduced on roofs deemed brittle or aged.

Depreciation: Age-based reduction in roof value used by insurance companies, typically accelerated when brittleness is documented.

End of useful life: Insurance term indicating a roof has reached the end of its functional lifespan, often based on brittle test results.

Wear and tear: Gradual deterioration excluded from coverage, an argument insurers make when brittle tests show aging.

Appraisal clause: Policy provision allowing dispute resolution through neutral third-party appraisers when brittleness claims are disputed.

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