Unfortunately, hail is a frequent occurrence across the United States. These destructive storms can damage your roof, costing you thousands of dollars in repairs. While there are no entirely hail-proof materials, you can find some hail-resistant options on the market.
Protecting Your Roof from Hail Damage
Hail might be small, but it can cause plenty of damage. Sometimes, a falling hailstone can reach a speed of 100 miles per hour. When hail slams into your roof, it will cause significant damage. Once there is any damage, you must contact a roofing company to fix those trouble spots.
Some roofing materials are better equipped to handle the impact. When you add those options to the roof, you can avoid leaks and other damage from hail. If you want to help protect your house, consider getting impact-resistant materials that can withstand heavy hail.
These materials can save you money on repairs, and you might even get a discount from your insurance company. Insurance companies know that hail damage is expensive and don’t want to pay for repairs. If you install impact-resistant roofing materials, the insurance company could reduce some of your premiums.
Look for Products with a UL 2218 Impact Rating
The Underwriters Laboratories will review various products, giving a safety rating. This organization does have ratings for roofing materials. The UL 2218 Impact Rating tests how well roofing materials can resist damage. When it comes time for testing, UL will drop a steel ball from a high distance to see the damage from the impact.
The UL has ratings that range from Class 1 to Class 4. Any materials with a Class 4 will have the most impact resistance. If the materials have Class 3 or 4 ratings, they are the best options for homeowners who want hailstone-resistant roofing. In some cases, you could see higher rating variations. Always ask your local roofing company for recommendations to find the best hail-resistant options for your home.
What Are Hail-Resistant Materials?
No roofing materials on the market can completely avoid hail damage. However, some options are better than others. Many of these materials have properties that make them a durable choice against any hail impacts. Here are some popular roofing options for your home.
Asphalt Shingles
One of the most common roofing materials in the United States is asphalt shingles. These materials are affordable, and you can get them in several colors and styles. These shingles are made with paper, cellulose, wood fiber, and adhesive asphalt. While they work well to repel water off the home, they usually cannot hold up to hail.
There is some good news. A few asphalt shingles have a UL 2218 rating. If you love the price point and cost of the material over other options but still worry about hail damage, make sure to choose a Class 3 or 4 product for your home.
Metal Panels and Shingles
While metal roofing materials are cost-prohibitive for some people, they are durable and long-lasting. Most metal roofs will have a Class 4 rating, which means they have a higher resistance against hail. Remember that even with that resistance, hail can cause dents in the surface. If you use thick metal sheets, they can help prevent dents from occurring on your roof. The type of metal materials makes a difference too. Smooth metal panels can show the slightest marks. Choose a corrugated metal roof that will not show every ding and dent on the surface.
Slate Roof Tile
Another higher-end option is a slate roof. These materials will look beautiful and can last for over 100 years. Many slate roofs also have higher impact resistance that can protect them from hail damage. Unfortunately, if there is a severe storm, the force of the hail could crack the material. Slate is durable, but it can have high repair costs.
Rubber and Synthetic Tile
Many individuals in the roofing industry consider synthetic and rubber roofs to offer the highest hail resistance in the market. These materials are light, affordable, and made with recycled materials. The hail can bounce off the rubber or plastic roof when it hits the surface. During the harshest storm, your roof will not suffer any type of damage.
Many homes and businesses with low-slope roofs may elect to have these roofing materials installed. If you live in an area with frequent hail, add a ballast layer and a thicker membrane. In some rare occurrences, heavy hailstones can damage the insulation board under the roof. With that, you may have to replace the entire section to repair the damage.
Are Hail-Resistant Shingles Worth the Cost?
In most cases, hail-resistant materials are worth that extra cost, but it will depend on where you live. Some areas of the country are affected by damaging storms on a seasonal basis. For those who only experience an occasional storm, these materials may not be worth the high price tag. While these roofing materials do have a higher initial cost, you will save money in the long term by avoiding expensive repairs.
Reach Out To RGB Construction
If you want to find the best hail-resistant roofing options for your home or business, talk to RGB Construction. We can help you select the right materials that can help prevent hail damage. Along with that, our team can help with other roof issues, such as repairs, maintenance visits, and installations. When you are ready to schedule a consultation, give us a call at 856-264-9093.
