The Best Roof Material That'll Help Prevent Hail Damage

Storms come in all shapes and sizes, and if you own a home, you know they often leave behind costly repairs. Snow, wind, and ice can all wreak their particular brands of havoc, but hail is one storm culprit that's notorious for denting not just your roof but your wallet, too. Unlike many other severe weather events, hail tends to hit fast and heavy. Formed when drafts in thunderstorms carry raindrops into freezing layers of the atmosphere before they fall back down, the icy pellets can vary in size from tiny pea-sized balls to softball-sized projectiles. Typically striking hardest during the spring months, hail can crack, dent, or completely break insufficient roofing materials, creating leaks or other long-term damage. Choosing roofing materials designed to take a hit, like metal or impact-resistant shingles, can help you minimize hail damage before it happens.

When it comes to preparing for severe storms, making sure your roof material is adequate well in advance of bad weather is one of the smartest steps you can take. Metal roofs are often considered among the best options for hail protection, especially when they are stone-coated. Durable, lightweight, and highly resistant to denting, they deflect hail while keeping the underlying structure of your house totally intact. Impact-resistant shingles are also designed to withstand hail up to a certain size, a feature not offered by traditional asphalt shingles, which often crack or lose their granules under the pressure. Both options can reduce the likelihood of damage and may even lower your insurance premium if you live in a hail-prone area. 

When it comes to storm prep that minimizes costly damage, not all roofing materials are created equal. While metal roofs and impact-resistant shingles both stand out, understanding the differences is important when choosing which option is best for your situation. Both materials offer aesthetic and protection benefits, but your choice may come down to your budget, style preferences, and long-term plans. 

There are several types of metal roofs, including steel, aluminum, and copper. Their smooth yet durable surfaces and natural flexibility mean that hail bounces right off. The upfront cost can be substantial, ranging from $4 for aluminum to $30 for copper per square foot installed, but your investment is likely to last for several decades with minimal maintenance. Many metal roofs come with Class 4 hail ratings, the highest impact-resistance classification available. Meanwhile, impact-resistant shingles are an upgraded version of the traditional asphalt versions you may already have. Designed to withstand hail up to 1.5 inches or more in diameter, for the best protection, this material should be rated Class 3 or Class 4 for the best protection. They're a more affordable option than metal, usually costing only 10% to 20% more than traditional shingles, but they won't last quite as long. 

Both roofing materials offer a mix of hail protection and visual appeal. How much you're willing to invest upfront, which style complements your home, and the level of protection your local climate requires are all factors you should consider while making your decision. Either way, installing one of these hail-resistant materials is a wise investment that can protect both your home and budget from unpredictable and costly storm damage.