478-286-0392Best Shingles for Hail (Ranked for 2024)
Written by
Leroy Whitt
Hailstorms are a natural force to be reckoned with. While they can be mesmerizing to watch from the safety of your home, they pose a significant threat to your property, especially your roof.
When hailstones come plummeting down, they can cause severe damage to your roof shingles, leading to:
- Leaks
- Structural issues
- Costly repairs
In this detailed guide, we’ll delve into the world of hail damage and explore the best shingles for hail damage prevention.
Understanding Hail Damage
Hailstones vary in size, ranging from small pellets to large chunks of ice. When they strike your roof, they can cause a range of damages, including:
- Granule Loss: Hailstones can knock off the protective granules on asphalt shingles, exposing the underlying material to the elements.
- Bruising: Impact from hailstones can cause bruising or indentations on shingles, weakening their integrity.
- Cracks and Fractures: Severe hailstorms can crack or fracture shingles, leading to leaks and water infiltration.
- Shingle Displacement: Strong winds accompanying hailstorms can lift and displace shingles, leaving vulnerable areas of your roof exposed.
Why Hail Damage Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Some homeowners might underestimate the impact of hail damage, especially if it appears minor at first glance. However, even small dents or granule loss can compromise the effectiveness of your roof in protecting your home. Ignoring hail damage can lead to:
Water Leaks 💧
Damaged shingles can allow water to seep into your home, causing interior damage to ceilings, walls, and insulation.
Mold and Mildew Growth 🍄
Moisture intrusion from a compromised roof can create a conducive environment for mold and mildew to thrive, posing health risks to occupants.
Structural Degradation 🏚️
Over time, water infiltration can weaken the structural integrity of your roof and the underlying framework, leading to costly repairs or even collapse in severe cases.
Decreased Property Value 💸
Untreated hail damage can detract from the curb appeal and value of your home, making it less attractive to potential buyers.
The 4 Best Types of Roof Shingles for Hail
Not all roof shingles are created equal when it comes to hail resistance. Here are some of the best options designed to withstand hailstorms:
1) Impact-Resistant Asphalt Shingles:
Asphalt shingles with Class 4 impact resistance ratings are engineered to endure hailstones of varying sizes. These shingles are reinforced with materials like fiberglass or polymers to enhance their durability.
2) Metal Roofing:
Metal roofs, such as steel or aluminum, are highly resilient against hail damage due to their inherent strength and durability. They can withstand impact from large hailstones without cracking or fracturing.
3) Synthetic Slate or Tile:
Synthetic slate or tile roofing mimics the aesthetic appeal of natural materials like slate or clay but offers superior impact resistance. Made from composite materials like polymer blends, these shingles can endure hailstorms without sustaining significant damage.
4) Rubber Shingles:
Rubber roofing shingles, also known as synthetic rubber or EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) shingles, are highly flexible and resilient against hail impact. They can bounce back from hailstones without cracking or breaking.
How Impact Resistance is Rated
The impact resistance of roofing materials is typically rated using a standardized testing method known as the UL 2218 test. This test involves dropping steel balls of various sizes and weights onto the surface of the shingles to simulate hail impact. The shingles are then evaluated based on their ability to resist damage at different levels of impact.
Shingles are classified into four categories based on their resistance to hail damage:
- Class 1: Least resistant – These shingles may not provide adequate protection against hailstorms and are more prone to damage.
- Class 2: Moderate resistance – Shingles in this class offer better protection against hail damage but may still sustain minor damage in severe storms.
- Class 3: High resistance – Shingles in this class are designed to withstand moderate hailstorms without sustaining significant damage.
- Class 4: Highest resistance – Shingles in this class are the most resilient against hail impact and can endure severe hailstorms with minimal or no damage.
What to Do If You Spot Hail Damage on Your Roof
If you suspect that your roof has sustained hail damage, it’s essential to take prompt action to assess the extent of the damage and initiate repairs if necessary. Here’s what you should do:
- Conduct a Visual Inspection: Carefully examine your roof for signs of hail damage, such as dented or bruised shingles, granule loss, or cracks. Use binoculars if necessary to inspect areas that are difficult to access.
- Document the Damage: Take photographs or videos of the hail damage to provide evidence for insurance claims. Documenting the damage can help expedite the claims process and ensure that you receive proper compensation for repairs.
- Schedule a Professional Inspection: Contact a licensed roofing contractor to perform a thorough inspection of your roof. A professional roofer can assess the extent of the damage and provide recommendations for repairs or replacement.
- File an Insurance Claim: If your roof is covered by homeowners insurance, contact your insurance provider to file a claim for hail damage. Provide detailed documentation of the damage and work with your insurer to schedule an adjuster inspection.
- Schedule Repairs or Replacement: Once your insurance claim is approved, schedule repairs or replacement of damaged shingles with a reputable roofing contractor. Choose high-quality shingles that are rated for hail resistance to minimize the risk of future damage.
Will Insurance Cover Hail Damage?
Whether or not your homeowners insurance policy covers hail damage depends on the specific terms and provisions of your policy. In most cases, standard homeowners insurance policies include coverage for hail damage to the structure of your home, including the roof. However, it’s essential to review your policy carefully and understand the extent of coverage, deductibles, and any limitations or exclusions that may apply.
If your roof sustains hail damage, follow these steps to file an insurance claim:
Review Your Policy:
Familiarize yourself with the coverage details and exclusions in your homeowners insurance policy. Pay attention to the deductible amount and any special provisions related to hail damage.
Document the Damage:
Take photographs or videos of the hail damage to provide evidence for your insurance claim. Make notes of the date and time of the hailstorm and any visible signs of damage to your roof.
Contact Your Insurance Provider:
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to report the hail damage and initiate the claims process. Provide them with detailed information about the extent of the damage and any steps you’ve taken to mitigate further loss.
Schedule an Adjuster Inspection:
Your insurance provider will assign an adjuster to assess the damage to your roof and determine the cost of repairs or replacement. Be present during the inspection to point out any areas of concern and provide documentation of the damage.
Follow the Claims Process:
Work closely with your insurance adjuster to expedite the claims process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for the hail damage. Keep records of all communication and paperwork related to your claim.
Schedule Repairs:
Once your insurance claim is approved, schedule repairs or replacement of your damaged roof with a reputable roofing contractor. Choose high-quality shingles that are rated for hail resistance to minimize the risk of future damage.
Add Hail Resistant Shingles to Your Roof
Hail damage can wreak havoc on your roof, compromising its integrity and leaving your home vulnerable to water damage and structural issues. By choosing the best shingles designed to withstand hail impact and taking prompt action to address any damage, you can protect your home and preserve its value for years to come. Remember to review your insurance policy and file a claim if your roof sustains hail damage, ensuring that you receive proper compensation for repairs or replacement.
With the right precautions and proactive measures, you can defend your roof against the fury of nature and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is well-protected. If you’re ready to switch from traditional asphalt shingles to impact resistant shingles, contact Whitt’s today!
