What Is a Hip Roof? Florida Benefits, Insurance Savings & Storm Protection Explained

What Is a Hip Roof in Florida—and Why It’s a Big Deal for Insurance

When it comes to protecting your Florida home from hurricanes and high winds, the shape of your roof matters more than you might think. One roof style that stands out for both safety and insurance savings is the hip roof. But what exactly is a hip roof, and why does it matter to you?

What Is a Hip Roof?

A hip roof (or hipped roof) slopes down on all four sides, kind of like a pyramid or a tent. There are no vertical sides or “gables”—just a continuous slope from the ridge (top) of the roof down to the eaves (edges).

This style is very different from a gable roof, which has two sloped sides and vertical walls at each end. While gable roofs are common, they’re not as wind-resistant as hip roofs.

This image shows a classic hip roof, where all four sides slope downward toward the walls, forming a clean, symmetrical shape. The ridges meet at a central peak, and there are no vertical gable ends. This design is ideal for Florida homes due to its superior wind resistance, helping to deflect high winds and reduce uplift during storms—often qualifying the home for wind mitigation insurance discounts.

Why Do Hip Roofs Matter in Florida?

Florida is known for intense storms and hurricanes. A hip roof’s shape makes it more aerodynamic, so it’s better at withstanding strong winds. The sloped sides help push wind up and over the home, rather than catching it like a sail.

That makes hip roofs a smart choice in Florida’s wind-prone regions—including the West Central and Nature Coast areas.

Insurance Benefits of a Hip Roof

Here’s the part most homeowners love: Having a hip roof can lower your insurance premiums.

Florida insurance companies look at roof shape during a Wind Mitigation Inspection. If your roof qualifies as a true hip roof (usually meaning at least 90% of the roof perimeter slopes down), you may be eligible for a discount on your windstorm insurance.

Why? Because statistically, homes with hip roofs suffer less wind damage—and insurers reward that lower risk.

Quick Recap of Hip Roof Advantages:

• ✅ Better wind resistance

• ✅ Lower risk of hurricane damage

• ✅ Potential insurance savings

• ✅ Stylish, symmetrical look

A Tip for Homeowners

If you’re not sure what type of roof you have, a licensed inspector can help during a wind mitigation inspection. Even if your roof isn’t 100% hip, there may still be features that qualify you for insurance credits.