Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials: Hail and Storm Protection

Bad weather can damage your roof. Strong winds and hail can break or crack your roofing materials. But there are some roofing materials that are made to handle tough weather. These special materials can protect your home better. They resist damage from hail, wind, and flying objects.

Choosing the right roof is important. It keeps your family safe. It also saves you money on repairs. A strong roof gives you peace of mind during storm season.

What Is Impact-Resistant Roofing?

Impact-resistant roofing is designed to survive hits. Normal shingles can crack when hail falls on them. Impact-resistant materials are much stronger. They can take hits without breaking.

These materials go through special testing. The tests check how well they handle impacts. A steel ball is dropped on them from different heights. This shows how strong the material really is.

How Is Impact Resistance Tested?

There is a standard test for impact-resistant roofing. It is called UL 2218. This test was created by Underwriters Laboratories. It helps buyers know how strong roofing materials are.

During the test, steel balls are dropped on roofing samples. The balls are different sizes. They fall from 20 feet high. After the drops, experts check for cracks and damage.

The results give the material a rating from Class 1 to Class 4. Class 4 shingles are the strongest. They can survive hits from large hail. If you live in an area with bad storms, or winds like Hull area and Beverly neighborhood, Class 4 is the best choice.

The impact rating tells you what to expect. Higher ratings mean better protection. Always check the rating before buying roofing materials.

Types of Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials

There are several types of storm-proof roofing materials. Each has its own strengths. Let us look at the most popular options.

Polymer-Modified Shingles

These are asphalt shingles with added polymers. Polymers are special materials that add flexibility. They make the shingles bend instead of crack.

Regular asphalt shingles are stiff. When hail hits them, they can break. Polymer-modified shingles are different. They absorb the impact better.

Many polymer-modified shingles have Class 4 ratings. They look like regular shingles. But they perform much better in storms.

Polymer-modified shingles offer several advantages for homeowners. They look like traditional shingles, so your home keeps its classic appearance. You can find them in many colors and styles to match any house. They provide a good balance between price and protection. Roofers find them easy to install, which can save on labor costs.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is naturally strong. It handles impacts very well. Many metal roofs have Class 4 ratings.

Metal roofs come in different styles. Some look like traditional shingles. Others look like tiles or wood shakes. You can find a style that fits your home.

Metal roofing also has excellent wind resistance. It can handle winds over 140 miles per hour. This makes it great for hurricane areas too.

Homeowners love metal roofing for many reasons. It is extremely durable and can last 50 years or more with proper care. The wind resistance is outstanding, making it perfect for stormy regions. Metal is also fire resistant, which adds another layer of safety to your home. As a bonus, metal roofs reflect heat from the sun. This can lower your cooling costs in summer.

Rubber Roofing

Rubber roofing is made from recycled materials. Old tires and other rubber products are used. This makes it an eco-friendly choice.

Rubber is naturally flexible. It absorbs impacts well. Hail bounces off instead of causing damage.

Some rubber roofing looks like slate or wood. It gives you a classic look with modern protection.

Rubber roofing has unique advantages that appeal to many homeowners. The impact resistance is excellent because rubber absorbs shock naturally. Using recycled materials makes this a great choice for the environment. The lightweight nature of rubber makes installation easier and puts less stress on your home structure.

Composite Shingles

Composite shingles are made from mixed materials. They combine plastics, rubber, and other substances. This creates a very tough product.

These shingles often mimic expensive materials. They can look like slate or cedar. But they cost much less and last longer.

Composite shingles offer impressive benefits for homeowners seeking value. They can mimic the look of expensive materials like natural slate or cedar wood. This gives your home an upscale appearance without the high price tag. The durability is outstanding, and maintenance requirements are low. You also get multiple style options to match your home design.

Benefits of Impact-Resistant Roofing

Choosing impact-resistant materials offers many advantages. Here are the main benefits you will enjoy.

Lower Repair Costs

Storm damage is expensive to fix. Replacing broken shingles costs money. You also need to pay for labor. Impact-resistant roofing reduces these costs. When storms hit, your roof survives. You do not need to call for storm damage roof repair. This saves you hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Longer Roof Life

Impact-resistant materials are built to last. They handle weather better than standard materials. This means fewer replacements over time. A typical roof lasts 15 to 20 years. Impact-resistant roofs can last 30 years or more. This long life makes them a smart investment.

Better Home Value

A strong roof adds value to your home. Buyers like knowing the roof can handle storms. They feel safer and more confident. If you sell your home, mention the impact-resistant roof. It can help you get a better price.

Peace of Mind

Perhaps the biggest benefit is peace of mind. Storm season can be stressful. You worry about damage every time bad weather comes.

With impact-resistant roofing, you can relax. You know your home has extra protection. Your family and belongings are safer.

How to Choose the Right Materials

Consider these factors when deciding.

Your location matters most: Do you get a lot of hail? Are hurricanes common? Choose materials that match your weather risks.

Your budget is also important: They save money over time. Think about long-term value rather than just initial cost.

Check local building codes: Some areas require specific ratings for roofing materials. Make sure your choice meets all local rules and requirements.

Conclusion

Hail and storm protection starts with your roof. Impact-resistant roofing materials can save your home from damage. They are stronger, last longer, and may lower your insurance costs. Invest in quality. Look for products with high durability ratings. Class 4 shingles offer the best protection.

Your roof is your home’s first defense against storms. Make sure it is ready for whatever weather comes. Contact CAN Roof to discuss your options today.