Having an impact-resistant-roof is crucial in the United States. Otherwise, the next hailstorm could cause severe damage to your roof, and you may need expensive repairs or a replacement. This article explains everything about hail damage on metal roofs and helps you choose the best hail-resistant roof for your home.
At Trusted Roofing, we have been providing homeowners with valuable information about the roofing industry for many years. It’s part of our values to ensure that every homeowner has access to accurate information to protect their home and investments.
In this article, we’ve answered the question, “Are metal roofs hail resistant?”, and explained the following points:
- How do metal roofs hold up to hail?
- How can hail damage a metal roof?
- What size hail will damage a metal roof?
- Which is the best hail-resistant metal roof?
Knowing the answers to all these questions is essential since changing weather conditions and hail are related, and the likelihood of hailstorms occurring has increased everywhere due to global changes in temperature.
Does A Metal Roof Hold Up To Hail?
Metal roofs are one of the highest hail resistant roofing materials. They are made of sturdy metals, like galvanized steel, aluminum, and copper, that can withstand strong impact and heavy hail damage.
The thickness of the metal and the quality of the installation also play a crucial role in the hail resistance of a metal roof. A properly installed, high-grade metal roof with proper underlayment can protect against hail damage.
Additionally, metal roofs have the added benefit of being able to withstand high winds, heavy rain, and fire, making them a brilliant option for homes in areas prone to severe weather. But giant hailstones are different, right? So, what is it that makes a metal roof hail-proof?
How Do Metal Roofs Hold Up To Hail?
Metal roofs are less likely to develop holes and cracks than other roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles. The key factors that make metal roofs so durable include the natural properties of metal and the installation of roofing panels.
Metals Panels Are Tough
Metal roofing panels are known for their toughness. They are thick and rigid enough to withstand the high impact of hailstones without developing cuts and cracks like asphalt shingles do. The seamless profile and watertight installation of metal panels keep them durable without leaving gaps or areas that may crumble under the impact.
Their Malleable Nature Prevents Holes
Metal roofing panels are also malleable. This allows them to absorb the force of hail, which reduces the likelihood of damage. At most, they develop minor dents rather than breaking or cracking under hail impact. With the power to prevent significant damage, metal roofs can last for over 50 years!
Flexibility Improves Weather Resistance
Metals are flexible and do not deteriorate at the same rate that other roofing materials do. They expand and contract with temperature change, which helps metal roofs sustain less damage as well. This significant advantage keeps them strong throughout the years, and ready to take a hit. These properties combine to make a Class 4 impact-resistant roofing material. UL Class 4 is the highest rating a roof can get against impacts.
However, metal panels are not 100% damage-proof. They can minimize damage, but that doesn’t mean they won’t sustain some damage under certain conditions.
How Can Hail Damage A Metal Roof?
When it comes to metal roofs, hailstones usually aren’t too much of a problem. Small hailstones, less than 0.75 inches in size, can cause tiny dings and scratches on the roof. These damages are so small that they may not even be visible from the ground.
As the hailstones get bigger, they can cause more damage. Hailstones that are 1 to 2 inches in size can cause little dents on a metal roof that may affect the smooth look of the panels. Such damage is only limited to the roof’s aesthetics, not its functionality.
So, what size hail will damage a metal roof? The answer is hailstones that are bigger than 2 inches in diameter, as they can cause large dents and craters in a metal roof. These can be quite noticeable and can weaken the metal panels over time.
Such large hailstones are only evident in hail-prone areas of the country, such as Colorado, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. However, it’s best to prepare for the worst-case scenario, even when you have a highly hail-resistant roof since hailstorms have been observed everywhere around the country. Even areas not prone to hail, like Tennessee, have been hit by hailstones costing millions of dollars. Many insurance companies have also reported increased claims for hail damage.
Will Insurance Pay For Hail Damage To A Metal Roof?
Hail damage can be repaired by applying a new coating or replacing the damaged panels. However, most insurance companies cover hail damage repair only if the damage has affected the roof’s functionality. Insurance coverage is usually not provided for cosmetic or aesthetic damage to a roof. Some policies may cover physical damage because, ultimately, dents and dings in the roof affect the resale value of a home.
The claim and coverage depend entirely on your policy type, and most insurance companies require a professional roof inspection report to consider your claim. They also consider the quality of roofing materials you’ve used, and how well you have taken care of your roof over the years.
So, as a homeowner, you can choose a metal roof design with the highest hail resistance for maximum protection. This will prevent severe damage as well as help you qualify for insurance claims.
Which Is The Best Hail-Resistant Metal Roofing Material?
If you choose low-quality materials and have poor installation techniques, your metal roof will be more vulnerable to hail damage. So, you must hire a reliable metal roofing contractor and consider the following features for maximum hail resistance:
- Galvanized steel: It is tougher than other metals like aluminum and copper, resisting hail better.
- 22 gauge panels: The 22 gauge panels provide a thicker layer of metal, making the roof more resistant to dings and dents.
- A corrugated or shingle design: Patterns that resemble wavy designs, clay tiles, or slate roofs add more flair that hides aesthetic issues caused by hailstones.
- A thick coat on the seams: Finally, choose an industrial-grade metal roof coating. It protects the roof and any seams that may be vulnerable to hail damage.
If you are looking for a long-lasting, economical, and hail-resistant roof, we can help you choose the best option for your home. At Trusted Roofing, we’ve been installing highly weatherproof roofs across Mid-Tennessee for years!
Do You Need A Sturdy, Durable & Beautiful Metal Roof For Your Home?
We hope our article about hail-resistant roofs was helpful to you. If you’re in the market for a new metal roof for your home, let us help you make the best choice. Our metal roofing experts have the knowledge and expertise to help you find the perfect one for your home. We pride ourselves on our attention to detail and our commitment to quality.
Having a new roof installed can be stressful, but we’re here to make it a smooth and memorable experience for our customers. We understand that a new roof is a significant investment, and that’s why we take the time to understand your needs and preferences, so we can recommend a beautiful metal roof design in your budget that provides the durability and protection your home needs.
Call us at (720)-712-3516 for a free consultation and estimate on your metal roofing project.
