Hailstorms are a formidable adversary, causing significant damage to properties every year. For homeowners in areas prone to such weather events, the choice of roofing material becomes paramount. Impact-resistant shingles have emerged as a leading solution, offering unparalleled protection against the ravages of hail.
Understanding Hail Damage and Its Effects on Roofs
When hailstones strike a roof, they can inflict various types of damage:
- Granule Loss: Hail can strip away the granules on a shingle’s surface, leaving the underlying asphalt exposed. This speeds up the roof’s wear and tear, with visible pitted spots marking where hailstones hit.
- Shingle Cracks: The force of hail can lead to cracks or even breakage in the shingles, making the roof susceptible to leaks and further deterioration.
- Fiberglass Mat Exposure: Intense hail impacts can shatter shingles, revealing or fracturing the fiberglass mat beneath. Damaged shingles can absorb water, directing it to the underlying layers.
- Weakened Seal Strips: A potent hailstorm can undermine the shingles’ seal strip, creating vulnerabilities that might allow shingles to be torn off.
The Superiority of Impact-Resistant Shingles
Impact-resistant (IR) shingles are crafted to endure hail’s force with minimal damage. Classified as a Class 4 product, these shingles are designed to offer the highest level of hail damage resistance. One notable example in the market is the TruDefinition® Duration FLEX® shingles, which blend SBS (styrene-butadiene-styrene) with traditional shingles to produce a more flexible and resilient product. This unique composition ensures that the shingle can withstand significant impacts without cracking.
The rigorous testing for these shingles involves dropping steel balls of varying sizes from heights ranging from 12 to 20 feet, simulating the effect of hailstones. Shingles that achieve a Class 4 rating, like the TruDefinition® Duration FLEX® shingles, have demonstrated their ability to resist cracking under such conditions.
Benefits of opting for Class 4, impact-resistant shingles include:
- Prolonging the roof’s lifespan.
- Minimizing the frequency and extent of roof repairs.
- Potential savings on homeowner’s insurance.
- Prevention of insurance premium hikes.
Why Choose Guns N’ Hoses Roofing & Siding?
At Guns N’ Hoses Roofing & Siding, we understand the importance of a robust and durable roof, especially in areas like Flint, MI, where weather conditions can be unpredictable. Whether you’re considering a metal roof in Flint, MI, or seeking roofing contractors in Flint, MI, for a complete overhaul, our team is equipped to provide top-notch solutions tailored to your needs. With our expertise in roofing service in Flint and our commitment to quality, you can rest assured that your home is in capable hands.
Conclusion
Hail might be a force of nature, but with the right roofing solutions, homeowners can fortify their homes against its destructive power. Impact-resistant shingles offer a formidable defense, ensuring that roofs not only withstand hail storms but also stand the test of time. With Guns N’ Hoses Roofing & Siding at your service, you can equip your home with the best roofing solutions, ensuring peace of mind for years to come.