Can hail damage metal roofing?
Metals roofs are known for their durability, just like a car, they can be susceptible to damage from hail under certain conditions. The severity of the damage depends on several factors like the size and density of the hailstones, the pitch of the roof, and the age and condition of the roof.
Small hailstones (less than 1 inch in diameter) are unlikely to cause any significant damage to a metal roof. On the other hand, larger hailstones or ones with irregular shapes or sharp edges can cause dents or punctures in the metal roof panels causing hail damage. These type of damage can potentially compromise the integrity of the metal roofing and lead to leaks or other issues.
The pitch of a metal roof can also play a role in the severity of hail damage. Roofs with a steeper pitch are generally less susceptible to damage, as hailstones are more likely to glide off the surface of the roof. Flat roofs or roofs with a shallower pitch are more likely to sustain direct hits from hailstones, which can cause more significant damage.
The age and current condition of the metal roof panels can also affect its susceptibility to hail damage. Older roofs or roofs that are already in poor condition are more likely to sustain damage from hail, as they may be more brittle or less able to withstand impacts.
In any case, it’s a good idea to have your roof inspected by our McPartlon Roofing experts after a severe hailstorm to check for any signs of damage and make repairs before they become more serious. Call us today to schedule a roof assessment.
Ways to prevent severe hail damage to a roof
As a home or business owner, you are not completely helpless when it comes to preventing severe hail damage to your metal roof. The most impactful option would be installing roofing materials that are designed to withstand hail damage, such as impact-resistant shingles or Class 4 impact-resistant metal roofing. Protective shields, such as hail guards, can be installed over skylights and other vulnerable areas of your roof as added protection.
Staying on top of the condition of your roof is key. Regular maintenance, including inspections and repairs, can help identify and address any weak spots or damage before hail strikes. Even overhanging branches can pose a threat to your roof during a hailstorm, so make sure to trim any trees that are close to your home or business.
It is better to always be safe than sorry. Making sure your homeowner’s insurance policy covers hail damage to your roof is great backup to have.
What is Class 4 Impact Resistance?
Class 4 Impact Resistance is a rating system used to measure a roofing material’s ability to withstand damage from hail and other impacts. The rating system is used by insurance companies and is based on a standardized testing procedure. To achieve a Class 4 rating, the highest rating, a roofing material must be able to withstand the impact of a 2-inch steel ball without sustaining damage. The steel ball is dropped from a height of 20 feet onto the roofing material, simulating the impact of a severe hailstorm.
Roofing materials that achieve a Class 4 rating are considered highly impact-resistant and are less likely to sustain damage from hail or other impacts. Insurance companies will often offer discounts or incentives to homeowners who install Class 4 impact-resistant roofing materials. Metal roofs are one of the few roofing materials that can achieve a Class 4 rating. Synthetic and high-quality asphalt shingles with high-quality impact-resistant coatings are also among the roofing materials that rank in the Class 4 category.
If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather, especially hailstorms, it is worth considering a Class 4 impact-resistant roofing material to help protect your home or business and potentially reduce your insurance costs.
If you’re interested in learning more about Class 4 impact-resistant roofing material or would like your roof inspected for hail damage, schedule a roof assessment with our McPartlon Roofing experts today.