How long does a roof replacement take?

Most residential roof replacements are completed in 1–3 days, depending on the size and complexity of your roof. We work efficiently while maintaining the highest quality standards.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes! We provide free, no-obligation estimates for all roofing services. Call us at (956) 600-0501 or visit our contact page to get started.

What roofing materials do you use?

We use top-quality materials from trusted manufacturers including architectural shingles, metal roofing, and flat roofing systems. We'll recommend the best option for your home and budget.

Do you help with insurance claims?

Absolutely. We have extensive experience working with insurance companies. We'll document the damage, meet with adjusters, and ensure you get the coverage you deserve.

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Baccaro Roofing GuideWPI-8 Windstorm Certification Explained for Texas

May 27, 20265 min read

TL;DR: WPI-8 is a Texas windstorm certification required for TWIA insurance coverage on coastal homes (Cameron, Willacy, parts of Aransas, Calhoun, Refugio, San Patricio, Galveston, Harris counties). The roofer must install to specific code, a TDI-licensed inspector verifies, and documentation is filed with TDI. Without it, TWIA won't cover wind damage on your roof.

What WPI-8 stands for

WPI-8 = Windstorm Resistant Construction Inspection, Form WPI-8. A Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) certification program for new construction and re-roofs in seacoast counties.

Why it exists

Texas coastal counties (Cameron, Willacy, Aransas, Calhoun, Refugio, San Patricio, Nueces, Kleberg, Kenedy, Galveston, Harris, parts of Brazoria, Chambers, Jefferson) are in hurricane-vulnerable zones. After Hurricane Carla (1961), Texas created the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA) as the insurer of last resort for these properties — but only if they meet windstorm-resistance standards.

WPI-8 is the certificate that proves your construction meets those standards.

Who needs it

- New construction in seacoast counties - Re-roofs of existing structures in seacoast counties - Major renovations in seacoast counties

In the Rio Grande Valley specifically: Cameron and Willacy counties are seacoast counties. Hidalgo and Starr are not.

So WPI-8 applies to Brownsville, Harlingen, San Benito, Los Fresnos, Port Isabel, South Padre, Laguna Vista, Bayview, Indian Lake, Olmito, Santa Rosa, Raymondville, Lyford, San Perlita, Sebastian, La Feria, Combes, Primera, Palm Valley, Rancho Viejo, Rio Hondo.

It does NOT apply to McAllen, Edinburg, Mission, Pharr, Weslaco, Mercedes, Donna, Alamo, San Juan, Hidalgo, etc.

What the inspection covers

The WPI-8 inspection verifies:

Structural: - Hurricane straps at framing connections - Roof-to-wall tie-downs - Anchorage of roof framing

Roof system: - Underlayment grade and coverage - Decking attachment (nail spacing, pattern) - Drip edge and starter strip - Fastening pattern on shingles or panels (6-nail typically required) - Ridge cap fastening - Flashing at all penetrations

Materials: - Wind rating of installed material (must meet local code minimum, typically 130 mph)

How to get certified

### Step 1: Hire a WPI-8 certified roofer

The installer must be certified by TDI to perform WPI-8-eligible installations. Baccaro Roofing is a WPI-8 certified installer.

### Step 2: Install to spec

The install must follow the manufacturer's published wind-rated installation instructions PLUS any local code requirements. Common items: - 6-nail fastening pattern (not 4-nail) - Sealed/welded membrane at penetrations - Hurricane straps where applicable - Marine-grade sealants in coastal zones

### Step 3: TDI inspection

A licensed WPI-8 inspector visits the property during install (typically before final cover). They verify code compliance and document with photos.

### Step 4: Documentation filed

The inspector files Form WPI-8 with TDI. You receive a copy.

### Step 5: Provide to insurance

Submit to your TWIA agent. Premium calculation reflects WPI-8 status.

What it costs

The certification itself: $200-$500 typically. We include this in our coastal install pricing — no separate charge.

Common WPI-8 failure modes (and how we avoid them)

1. Wrong fastening pattern — using 4-nail when 6-nail is required 2. Galvanized fasteners in coastal zone — must be stainless 3. Inadequate underlayment — felt instead of synthetic, single-layer instead of double 4. Missing hurricane straps — common in older homes that didn't get them in original construction 5. Sealant not marine-grade — generic sealants fail

What if your existing roof doesn't have WPI-8?

You have three options:

1. Re-roof and certify: full replacement with WPI-8 install. Best long-term option. 2. Retrofit certification: some existing roofs can be inspected and certified if they meet code. Limited; depends on existing install quality. 3. Skip TWIA: rely on private windstorm insurance. Available but typically more expensive than TWIA.

Can I get TWIA without WPI-8?

Not for new construction or re-roofs. For existing homes that pre-date the requirement, some grandfathering applies — check with your TWIA agent.

Common questions

### Is WPI-8 the same as Class 4?

No. Class 4 = impact-resistance (hail). WPI-8 = wind certification. Both desirable; both qualify for separate insurance discounts.

### How long is the certification valid?

The WPI-8 cert documents a specific install. As long as the roof condition matches the original install, the cert remains valid. Major modifications require re-certification.

### Will WPI-8 lower my premium?

Yes — significantly. TWIA premium calculation depends heavily on WPI-8 status. Without it, premiums can be 30-50% higher for equivalent coverage.

### Does WPI-8 apply to inland Texas?

No — only seacoast counties. Inland counties (McAllen, Edinburg, etc.) don't need it.

### Can any roofer do WPI-8 installs?

No. The roofer must be TDI-certified. We are.

Get a WPI-8 quote

(956) 600-0501 — coastal-spec install, WPI-8 certification included, TWIA-aware quoting.