The storms around here are brutal. A particularly nasty hailstorm or heavy winds can tear your roof to shreds. Then you’re facing repairs, insurance claims, and all the headaches that come along with urgent home repairs. Save yourself that hassle and install an impact-resistant roof. The next time a storm rolls in, you can cozy up inside and relax, knowing that your roof can handle whatever rages on outside.
In this post, we cover what makes a roof resistant to impact and damage and why impact-resistant roofing is a smart choice for us here in the Austin and Central Texas area. Let’s turn your roofing worries into storm-proof strength.
What is an Impact-Resistant Roof?
An impact-resistant roof is exactly what it sounds like—a specially designed roofing system that’s made to withstand the brutal force of hail, windblown debris, and whatever other projectiles Mother Nature might decide to throw at your home.
Standard asphalt shingles, as sturdy as they may seem, are actually quite susceptible to damage from high winds and hail strikes. On the other hand, impact-resistant roof shingles feature reinforced construction with materials like polymer-modified asphalt, fiberglass mats, or tough rubberized surfaces that can take a serious pounding without cracking or deteriorating.
In fact, to earn the coveted “impact-resistant” label, these shingles have to endure some pretty rigorous impact resistance testing by folks at places like Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and Factory Mutual (FM).
They line up a bunch of different-sized steel balls—we’re talking a 1.25-inch steel ball, a 1.5-inch steel ball, a 1.75-inch steel ball, and even a big ol’ 2-inch steel ball. Then, they drop these balls from a height onto the shingles to simulate hailstorms.
If the shingles can take the beating and withstand the steel ball’s impact without cracking or falling apart, it gets a thumbs-up for being class impact resistant.
The Benefits of Going With An Impact-Resistant Roof System
These roofs are built tough. We know they can withstand high winds and steel hail, but what else do they bring to the table?
Here are just a few of the major advantages of investing in impact-resistant roofing products:
1. Superior Durability and Longevity
Let’s be real – replacing your roof prematurely because of storm damage is a royal pain in the you-know-what (not to mention a major hit to the wallet). Impact-resistant shingles are designed to stay intact far longer than standard options when exposed to harsh weather events year after year. While impact-resistant shingles cost more upfront, their extended lifespan makes them worth every penny.
2. Reduced Chance of Leaks and Water Damage
Even if your current roof doesn’t get pulverized by hailstones, strong winds and flying debris can still loosen or dislodge shingles and lead to costly water leaks down the road. The tough-as-nails construction of impact-rated roofs vastly decreases this risk.
3. Potential Insurance Discounts
Many home insurance providers recognize the value of impact-resistant roofs. Some insurance companies offer premium discounts to homeowners who install them. Thanks to their superior protective qualities, they’re seen as a much lower risk, which can translate to annual home insurance premium savings for you.
4. Improved Energy Efficiency
While not the primary function, some impact-resistant shingles also boast built-in insulation or reflective coatings that can help reduce your home’s energy consumption (and utility bills). Talk about a win-win!
5. Peace of Mind
Perhaps the biggest benefit of all is simply the reassurance and confidence you get from having a virtually storm-proof roof over your head. Next time the skies open up, and the clouds start dropping bomblets, you won’t have to sweat a single shingle getting damaged.
Bonus: Financial Incentives $$
Besides the potential savings on your home insurance premium, some companies will even offer discounts or rebates—who doesn’t love a good deal?
This extra financial incentive helps cushion the blow of the initial impact-resistant shingles cost, making them an even juicier option for savvy homeowners.
Types of Impact-Resistant Roofing
When it comes to decking out your home with a tough-as-nails roof, you’ve got a few options to pick from. Class impact-resistant shingles are the go-to choice for many, offering a solid blend of durability and style. These shingles are designed to take whatever Mother Nature throws their way, making them a popular choice in storm-prone areas.
For those who prefer a sleeker, more modern vibe, there are impact-resistant asphalt roofing options. These bad boys combine the strength of traditional asphalt roofing shingles with added impact resistance, giving you the best of both worlds. The rugged impact-resistant roofing materials used in these shingles ensure they meet class impact resistance standards, providing superior protection against extreme weather.
If you’re more into the classic look, cedar shake roofing might be up your alley. These natural wood shakes not only look great but also come in impact-resistant varieties that can withstand severe weather.
No matter which type you choose, getting these installed is a breeze with Blackhill Roofing Systems. Our team specializes in shingle roof installation and will have you on your way to a storm-proof home in no time. We offer a free, no-obligation quote so you can get an idea of costs upfront.
A Roof for Our Times
Here in Austin and other hail-prone parts of Texas, outfitting your home with an impact-resistant roof is a wise investment that just makes good sense.
With storms increasing in frequency and severity these days, having solid protection against severe weather impacts should be a top priority.
An impact-rated roof is kind of like that reliable buddy who’s always got your back, no matter what life throws your way. When those dark clouds start brewing up a nasty tempest, you can rest easy knowing your roofing system was literally made to withstand a beating.
So, if you’re dreading the prospect of yet another hail hammering and shelling out big bucks for shingle repair or full roof replacement, give the pros at Blackhill Roofing Systems a call. We’re impact-resistant roofing experts, and we’d be more than happy to evaluate your home and discuss upgrading options to get you stormproof for good.
Don’t wait until the thunder starts rumbling to batten down the hatches. With a rugged, impact-resistant roof over your head, you can laugh in the face of whatever wild weather comes barreling your way. Stay dry!
