How the Right Roofing System Helps Reduce Hail Damage

A durable roofing system can help keep damage caused by hailstones to a minimum, as well as the likelihood of dealing with complications associated with hail storm damage insurance claims. In today’s post, local roofing contractor Dynamic Roofing Concepts, Inc. discusses how choosing the right roof is your best defense against hailstorm damage.

Why Invest In a Durable Roofing System?

There is currently no building code that pertains to required or recommended roofing materials in hail-prone areas. This means homeowners in these areas need to be extra careful with their roofing choices, considering that unrepaired hail damage can take as much as ten years off an asphalt shingle roof’s service life. Therefore, investing in a roof that can resist impact damage can be considered a true investment.

The most common problem associated with hailstorm damage is that it can be easily mistaken for asphalt shingle blisters, and one would need an experienced roofing contractor to visually tell the difference. Asphalt shingle blisters are caused by a manufacturing error, which means it should be covered by the roof’s factory warranty. Insurance providers consider blisters a cosmetic defect, and generally do not provide coverage.

Qualities of a Durable Roofing System

The first thing you need to look for is impact resistance ratings. Roofing manufacturers offer impact-resistant roofing rated in UL 2218 or FM 4473, the standards for impact resistance tests. A roof with Class 3 or 4 rating under these testing standards is expected to withstand damage inflicted by hailstones.

Many people dismiss asphalt shingles as unsuitable for protection against hail damage, but this is only because most standard or “entry-level” asphalt shingles are rated for average climate conditions. Fortunately, roofing manufacturers offer complete roofing systems that meet or exceed the aforementioned impact resistance standards. For example, GAF’s Timberline® AS II Shingles is a UL 2218 Class 4 roof. In addition to giving you peace of mind, it may also qualify your roof for insurance discounts.

Dynamic Roofing Concepts, Inc. is the leading roofer serving Tampa and the surrounding communities in Florida. Give us a call at (813) 510-1166. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.