Flat Roofing That Holds up in Hailstorms
A flat roof is highly susceptible to hail damage. The three standard types of flat roofing systems are built-up roofing, single-ply membrane and modified bitumen.
Rubber Roofing
EPDM rubber roofing systems are hail resistant, but will likely dent during a hailstorm. Large hail could damage the insulation board under the membrane.
PVC Roofing
This type of roof system is brittle and does not hold up well in a hailstorm. Hail can go through a thin PVC roof, causing water damage and leaks. If you live in an area with frequent hailstorms, install a thick, impact-resistant PVC.
Rubberized Asphalt
This flat roof system performs well under hail conditions. Asphalt alone will dry and crack over time. In this type of roof, rubber is mixed in with the asphalt, increasing its elasticity. This kind of roof provides adequate protection from hail. However, it is thin and will not completely protect the underlying fiberglass roofing.
Adding gravel surfacing to the rubber will maximize weather protection. Gravel absorbs the energy from the hail, protecting the fiberglass from damage. A professionally built gravel roof typically never has problems with hail damage. Substituting river rocks for gravel will result in a much more weighty but nearly impervious roof.
Other Roofing Options
Metal roofing systems might dent but will rarely need replacing. It may not look great, but dents from hail don’t typically affect the roof’s water tightness. If the metal’s finish gets cracked, it can rust, but unless the panel is split or fractured, dents are mostly cosmetic.
Spray polyurethane foam roofing is exceptionally durable and tolerant of impact. The high-density foam used in this system reduces air and moisture gaps, helping provide a sturdy roof resistant to wind and hail.
A flat roof requires proper, professional installation and care. Choosing how to replace or install roofing that withstands severe storms can be confusing. For best results that stand the tests of time and weather, contact a roofing service.