Is Your Roof Ready for Hail?

Apr 2
2 min read

What Every Homeowner Should Know

Shingle roof showing damage after a hail storm. Some hail is still in the gutter, and broken shingles are all over the roof.

Your roof does more than top off your home—it protects everything underneath it. But when hail hits, not all roofs hold up the same way. That’s why understanding impact-resistant shingles—and how they’re tested—can make a real difference for your home and your wallet.

Not All “Impact-Resistant” Shingles Are Equal

Many shingles are labeled “impact-resistant,” but performance can vary widely. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) provides independent, science-based ratings that show which shingles actually stand up to hail in real-world conditions.

Their goal is simple: give homeowners clear, unbiased information so you can make smarter decisions before the next storm hits.

How Shingles Are Tested

IBHS doesn’t rely on manufacturer claims. Instead, they:

Purchase shingles directly from retail stores (just like homeowners would)
Recreate realistic hail impacts based on how hail behaves in nature
Evaluate real damage—like granule loss, dents, cracks, and full shingle failure

The result is a set of trustworthy ratings that show how products truly perform when tested against hail.

An infographic from IBHS showing the ratings for different roof shingle types based on hail impact-resistance.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

Hailstorms are becoming more frequent and more severe in many parts of the U.S., including the Mid-Atlantic. As climate change increases atmospheric instability, storms are producing larger hail and more intense weather events.

That means roofs today are facing greater stress than they did even a decade ago. Choosing stronger materials isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s becoming essential. Plus, a stronger roof won't need replacing as often - a financial incentive for homeowners.

The cost of asphalt roof replacements has reportedly surged 250% since 2000, with a 45% increase in the last five years alone. Supply chain disruptions, skilled labor shortages and aging infrastructure further amplify costs, a report from Risk & Insurance notes.

How This Information Can Help You

Make informed choices - Before replacing your roof, look beyond labels. Use IBHS ratings to identify shingles that have been proven to perform under impact.

Save money over time - Stronger shingles can mean fewer repairs, fewer insurance claims, and less disruption after storms.

Talk to your contractor - Ask your roofer about IBHS-rated products so you can make an informed decision together. A knowledgeable contractor can help you choose materials that actually deliver protection—not just marketing promises.

Consider going further with FORTIFIED For even greater protection, consider upgrading to a FORTIFIED Roof™ with a Hail Supplement. This system is designed to reduce damage from severe weather and can strengthen your home’s resilience. If your roofer isn't familiar with this program, direct him to FORTIFIED Roof - FORTIFIED - A Program of IBHS to learn more and become certified.