How to Use Digital Tools to Speed Up Storm Repair Estimates

Each year, hurricanes cause billions of dollars in losses for homeowners across the country. In an effort to combat this, the roofing industry has made advances to help reduce the impact caused by storm damage, including specially designed shingles that can handle heavy impacts and high winds.If you live in a hurricane-prone area, here's what you need to know about hurricane shingles designed to handle the high wind speeds and debris impacts that can come with major hurricanes.Understanding Impact-Resistant ShinglesHurricane Shingles, (or impact-resistant shingles) are built to withstand both impacts and high wind speeds. They're robust, often created from a unique combination of styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) and asphalt, providing more strength than non-reinforced asphalt shingles.In hurricane-prone areas, sharp winds can easily blow debris and other large objects—like tree branches—onto a roof. Shingles that pass the UL 2218 Class 4 impact-resistant test are most effective at limiting impact damage. These shingles are tested by dropping a 2-inch steel ball from 20 feet above. The steel ball impacts various target locations of the shingles on the test deck. The test includes two impacts per target location. The shingles must handle the impact while showing no evidence of ruptures or cracks through the shingle.These shingles should also be able to withstand Category 3 hurricane wind speeds, ranging from 111 to 129 mph.Choosing the Right Shingles for Your RoofWhen deciding between hurricane shingles, consider their wind classification, impact resistance, and warranties.Wind ClassificationQuality, UL 2218 Class 4 impact-resistant shingles should be able to handle at least 110 mph wind speeds. These shingles tend to be made of either metal or asphalt mixed with SBS. For example, the GAF TimberSteel™ Premium Metal Roofing System is effective against high wind speeds due to layers of protection, innovatively designed to help protect your home against the elements.Impact ResistanceQuality hurricane roofing materials, including impact-resistant shingles come with enhanced protection against impacts from objects, especially hail. While these shingles may be more expensive than non-reinforced asphalt shingles, they tend to require less maintenance. And since these shingles can withstand certain kinds of impacts that often happen during a hurricane, it may not need as many repairs.WarrantiesConsider the shingles' warranties and what you're protected against. A wind warranty can guarantee roof repair and replacement for specific wind speeds as long as you meet all the warranty's requirements.GAF Hurricane Roofing InnovationsCertain GAF shingles like Timberline® AS II have the best possible wind and impact resistance ratings. They meet the highest rating, Class F, for the Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Steep Slope Roofing Products (ASTM D3161). This means they can withstand wind speeds up to 110 mph.Timberline® AS II shingles also have the highest rating, Class H, for the Classification for the Standard Test Method for Wind Resistance of Asphalt Shingles (ASTM D7158). This means the shingles can resist uplift from up to 150 mph wind speeds. If that wasn't enough, these shingles' Class 4 classification for the UL 2218 test means they can handle a 2-inch steel ball drop test from 20 feet above.With the highest possible ratings for all these tests, the Timberline® AS II shingles are proven and tested against the closest possible hurricane-like conditions (testing performed under controlled laboratory conditions). The robust SBS-modified asphalt material and LayerLock® technology help fortify your roof against wind, rain, and hail. These GAF shingles are also eligible for the WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty**, which provides infinite wind speed protection when installed with the required combination of four qualifying GAF accessories.Shingle Installation and Roof Maintenance TipsProperly installing impact-resistant shingles is essential for them to perform their best, so choose an experienced roofer. They'll know how to nail the shingles correctly and make sure they're firmly attached to each other and the roof to prevent any openings for leaks or weaknesses. Also, ask your roofer if they know how to install hurricane clips to help prevent your roof from flying off during a storm.Once your roof is installed, perform regular maintenance every year before and after hurricane season. Replace any missing or broken shingles, and secure any loose shingles. Also, replace any rusted nails or flashing. As part of roof maintenance, confirm your gutters are working properly and clean out any leaves, allowing water to flow away from your home.A weak point on a roof can degrade even further in harsh hurricane weather, and ensuring your roof is in stable condition can help keep you and your home safe.FAQsWhat are the best shingles for high wind?The best shingles for high winds are classified as Class F for the ASTM D3161 and Class H for the ASTM D7158 test. These two classifications mean the shingles have the best ratings for handling hurricane winds.Do impact-resistant shingles last longer?Due to their durable construction, made with SBS-modified asphalt, which makes shingles more flexible and better able to withstand impact stress than standard architectural shingles, GAF impact-resistant shingles are built to last many years.Preparing for the Next StormAfter the hurricane season, check your roof for damage. View this GAF guide on roof storm damage to learn what to look for and what to expect for possible repairs. If your roof needs work before or after a storm, reach out to a certified contractor* in your local area for guidance and support.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.**15-year WindProven™ limited wind warranty covers GAF Shingles with LayerLock® Technology only and requires the use of GAF Starter Strips, Roof Deck Protection, Ridge Cap Shingles, and Leak Barrier or Attic Ventilation. See GAF Roofing System Limited Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions. Visit gaf.com/LRS for qualifying GAF products. For installations not eligible for the WindProven limited wind warranty, see GAF Shingle & Accessory Limited Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions.

As part of its mission to build resilient communities, GAF Community Matters has supported Puerto Rico hurricane recovery efforts through roofing material donations, roof installation trainings, and team members' hard work. This has had a multifaceted impact on the island and the people who call it home.Hurricane Maria Hit HardHurricane recovery services are needed as urgently today as they were in 2017 when Hurricane Maria struck, leaving behind 15-foot deep floodwaters, about $90 billion in damage, an estimated 2,975 lives lost, and the longest power outage in US history. For 11 months, residents waited for electricity to be fully restored.Short-term disaster relief poured in post-storm. But years after the news cycles ended, Puerto Rico still remains—metaphorically—underwater. Schools and hospitals have fallen into hurricane-related disrepair, and insufficient fixes to the power grid cause frequent blackouts and brownouts.To make matters worse, hurricane-damaged homes that weren't repaired suffer compound damage from years of subsequent storms and exposure.Puerto Ricans Stand StrongThe people of Puerto Rico are strong and proud, determined to rebuild. However, the availability of needed resources poses a considerable challenge.For many, the funds needed to repair an unsafe roof are simply out of reach. Economic opportunities are scarce, and the government is heavily in debt. The US Census Bureau reported that 42% of Puerto Rican people are in poverty.Unfortunately, lower-income Puerto Rican households most vulnerable to Hurricane Maria were also least able to recover from the financial strain of repairing storm damage. With wind speeds up to 155 mph, extensive flash flooding, and wind tunnels ripping through the mountainous terrain, homes throughout this area were no match for the Category 4 hurricane.GAF Helps Build ResilienceTo help those impacted, GAF partnered with Team Rubicon, local nongovernmental organizations, and community members through the GAF Community Matters initiative to assist in Puerto Rico hurricane recovery. Since hurricane Maria recovery efforts began in 2017, GAF has donated materials for over 500 roofs and helped install them, bringing relief and shelter to families all over the island.This work has meant more to this community than just keeping their homes dry. Mr. Alfredo—a homeowner who received a new GAF roof—said, "There is nothing more important in life than to have a place to come home to, spend quality time in, sit, and be at peace."For all of Puerto Rico's strength and perseverance, many families still live in unsafe conditions due to hurricanes. GAF can't stop storms, but it can help build resilience.To that end, in addition to installing roofs, GAF, through the GAF Community Matters initiative and GAF Roofing Academy program, provided free roof installation trainings to local organizations in vulnerable Puerto Rican communities. Educating communities on roof installation creates a greater ability to adapt and bounce back when the next storm hits.Joining the Effort for GoodIn addition to its focus on roofing innovation, GAF remains committed to partnering with local organizations to build resilience in communities across the country. Team members will continue to donate time and materials to support and strengthen communities wherever the need may be.Curious to learn more about this project and other initiatives GAF is involved in? Explore GAF Community Matters.

While you can't control the weather, you can minimize its impact on your home. If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you can take steps before and after a storm to protect your property from damage. For instance, choosing quality hurricane roofing materials and completing proper roof maintenance can help reduce roof damage.Here's everything you need to know to prepare your roof for hurricane season.Types of Hurricane Roofing MaterialsThe Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale classifies hurricane categories based on their highest approximate wind speeds:Category 1: 74 to 95 mph windsCategory 2: 96 to 110 mph windsCategory 3: 111 to 129 mph windsCategory 4: 130 to 156 mph windsCategory 5: 157 mph or higher windsWith this in mind, specific roofing materials are designed to resist high winds and protect against damage from debris.Impact-Resistant ShinglesImpact-resistant shingles meet the UL 2218 impact test standards, defending your roof—and home—against the natural elements. They can cost more than typical asphalt shingles but can be worth the expense if you live in a hurricane-prone region.Metal RoofingMetal roofing can resist heavy impacts and withstand high winds, making it one of the best roofing systems for hurricanes. Some metal roofs can withstand wind speeds up to 150 mph, covering you even during Category 4 hurricanes.Synthetic RoofingSynthetic roofing materials resist wind, water, and fire damage, making them beneficial during hurricanes. Since they use man-made materials, they don't rely on a natural build. Instead, they're built with damage-resistant features in mind while mimicking the appearance of natural materials. These composite roofing shingles are typically made from recycled plastic, asphalt, and other products.GAF Hurricane Roofing SolutionsYour choice of roofing materials can limit roof damage. Some products are manufactured specially to withstand the harshest weather conditions and keep everyone in your home safe. Here are a few GAF products developed with harsh weather in mind.GAF Timberline® AS II ShinglesTimberline® AS II Shingles are created with proprietary SBS-modified asphalt that's flexible to bolster impact resistance. Impact resistant shingles can be stronger than other non-impact resistant asphalt shingles, and since they pass the UL 2218 impact-resistance test, you could potentially qualify for insurance discounts. Timberline® AS II shingles come with a 25-year StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection Limited Warranty that protects against algae discoloration. Plus, when installed with four qualifying GAF accessories, they're eligible for the WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty, which provides infinite wind speed protection.GAF Grand Sequoia® AS ShinglesGrand Sequoia® AS Shingles also pass the UL 2218 Class 4 test, as they're built with the same SBS-modified asphalt formula. The DuraGrip™ Adhesive seals shingles tightly to prevent wind blow-off, and the shingles are warrantied against winds up to 130 mph, covering Category 4 hurricane winds.GAF TimberSteelTM Premium Metal Roofing SystemThe GAF TimberSteel™ Premium Metal Roofing System gives your home the hurricane-resistant capabilities of metal roofing at an affordable price. The system can help keep your home safe against high winds and rain through its multiple layers of protection. It's designed to provide a beautiful look with GALVALUME® steel that features top and bottom interlocking to keep everything tight and leakproof.Hurricane-Resistant Roof DesignsMore goes into building a hurricane-resistant roof than just the material. The roof shape and slope can provide additional resistance.Hip roofs can best resist hurricane weather. Although they're typically costlier to build than gable roofs, a hip roof's four slopes provide better wind uplift resistance than a gable roof's two slopes. As the wind flows around the roof causing pressure differences, the additional slopes are better equipped to handle the wind flow.A 30-degree roof slope also provides the best protection against high winds, preventing wind from easily lifting the roof.Installation Quality Plays an Important RoleRoofing contractors must follow proper techniques when preparing or installing a roof for hurricane season. This often means using nails instead of staples to install shingles since nails better attach the shingle to the roof and create fewer holes for water to get in. Likewise, properly installed flashing—without gaps in the intersection—helps keep heavy rainfall from entering the home.Additionally, a contractor can install hurricane clips to ready a roof for harsh weather. These steel plates secure and connect roof trusses to the home's wall structure, keeping the roof attached during high winds. In states like Florida, new homes are required to have hurricane clips installed.Preparing Your Roof for Hurricane SeasonThe Atlantic hurricane season starts June 1 and lasts until November 30, reaching its peak in September.Months before hurricane season approaches, schedule a professional roof inspection from a trusted contractor to ensure your roof is up-to-date and isn't damaged. This gives you sufficient time to complete any maintenance and repairs before the season arrives, as contractors might be busy once it starts.Reinforce Weakened AreasA weak spot in your roofing system can lead to further damage and compromise the rest of the roof's integrity. Even a small opening in a shingle can cause serious water damage during a rainstorm. Your roofing contractor can fix or replace loose or torn shingles, repair broken flashing or fascia, clean debris from your roof, and clear out your gutters.Mitigate Potential Tree DamageSharp winds and storms can sometimes cause tree branches to break and fall on top of the roof, damaging shingles or other materials. So, trim nearby trees as part of your roof maintenance. Also, remove fallen leaves before and after storms. Leaves can clog gutters, preventing water from flowing off the roof during heavy rain.Schedule Post-Storm InspectionsRoofing maintenance after a storm is just as important as before a storm. If a hurricane damages your roof, find a company that handles storm damage roof repair. While you can try assessing any roof damage from the ground, a roofing contractor can accurately identify the damage extent and fix it. They can also help you with any insurance claims if your policy covers you for these circumstances.Protecting Your Roof from Hurricane DamageYou can take several proactive measures to minimize the impact of harsh weather on your roof. Choosing the right materials—and ensuring they're installed correctly—is paramount. Hire a GAF-certified roofing contractor*and enjoy peace of mind as the next storm approaches.FAQCan a roof be hurricane-proof?Due to the nature of hurricanes, no roof is 100% hurricane-proof. But wind- and moisture-resistant roofs perform the best during hurricanes. This is why it's important to choose quality products that will protect your home in the worst possible weather conditions.What is the best roof for a hurricane?The best roof for a hurricane is made with impact-resistant shingles or metal. These materials can handle impacts from heavy objects that may blow onto your roof during a hurricane. Metal roofing can generally handle higher hurricane winds better than typical singles.What type of roof would most likely be torn off in a hurricane?The worst-performing roofs during hurricanes are ones that have wood shingles or shakes. Wood isn't very moisture-resistant without additional coatings. Wood shingles and shakes are also lightweight, so sharp winds can easily lift them. Furthermore, wood isn't as strong as other materials, so it can become brittle when heavy objects land on it.What is the best roof for high-wind areas?Metal roofing is one of the best roofing systems for high-wind areas, as it's built to withstand wind speeds up to 130 to 150 mph. But the installation quality is just as important as the material—even the most robust materials may not stand well against high winds if they aren't correctly installed. Additionally, When installed with the required combination of GAF Accessories, Timberline® Shingles with LayerLock™ Technology are eligible for an industry first: a wind warranty with no maximum wind speed limitation.To ensure your roof is in good shape to protect your home this hurricane season, reach out to a contractor certified by GAF* in your area to schedule a roof inspection.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.