What can you do to protect your home from inclement weather like hail? Choose hail-resistant shingle and siding options from Guns N Hoses!
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One day, you’re outside lounging by the poolside, and the next, you’re picking up pieces of your roof and siding from your yard. If this sounds familiar, we get it. Life in Calgary is bittersweet. We get to enjoy the most sun in the whole country, but it comes with a price.
So, what can you do to protect your home from inclement weather like hail?
If you’re installing new roofing or siding after a storm, or it’s time for an upgrade, you can consider using higher-grade material that is made to withstand the damaging effects of rogue hail and extreme winter conditions, even in the middle of summer. In today’s blog we’ll go over hail resistant shingle and siding options that extend the lifespan of your roof and put your mind at ease.
Choosing the Right Shingles
Hail can strike at any time. So if your roof or shingles need to be replaced, it’s best to get the job done now. If you wait until after the next storm, leaks and water damage can occur without your knowledge, negatively affecting the integrity of your roof.
Thankfully there are a number of hail and weather-resistant shingle options available through our expert team.
Shingle Varieties
Shingles come in 4 main types: asphalt, slate, metal and rubber. The most popular for homeowners in the Calgary area tend to be asphalt and rubber because they have higher impact ratings, while still matching a variety of home styles and aesthetics.
Impact Resistant Shingles
Impact resistant shingles are also quickly gaining popularity in the Calgary area because they are specifically designed to withstand even the harshest weather conditions including strong winds and, you guessed it, hail.
These stronger shingles are usually made of asphalt mixed with a synthetic, rubber-based polymer called SBS. This makes the shingles not only more durable, but also more flexible. Helping them better withstand our prairie winds, and large hail stones.
Rubber
Rubber shingles are made from 70% recycled tire rubber and may cost more than asphalt. However a locally-manufactured product, like Euroshield rubber roofing, is able to withstand the impact from a steel ball being dropped from 20 feet, so you know hail won’t stand a chance against your roof.
Ultimately, the best way to ensure you are getting a hail-resistant roof is to talk to your roofing contractor from Guns N Hoses. They will be able to go over the ins and outs of what type of shingles is suitable for your home, taste and budget.
Choosing the Right Siding
Finding the right hail-resistant siding can be tricky. We know that looks matter, so when you’re going through your options, you will likely weigh both aesthetics and practicality.
The four most popular choices in the Calgary area are: vinyl, Hardie board, composite and stone veneer.
Vinyl
Vinyl siding is easy to install, comes in a large variety of colours, is durable and is fairly cost effective. Regular maintenance and cleaning is also a breeze. However, it’s worth noting that it can’t always stand up to the severe hail storms that frequent our area. We are often replacing vinyl siding along with roofing after a summer storm.
Hardie Board
The holy grail of siding options. Hardie Board is one of the few products that truly withstands anything Calgary hail storms can throw at it.
Available in:
- HardiePlank lap siding
- HardieShingle siding
- HardiePanel vertical siding
Hardie Board is made up of a fibre-cement material to better protect your home without sacrificing character and style.
Composite & Stone
Composite and stone siding are nice to look at, but they tend to break down and let moisture in leading to rot and damage. We don’t tend to recommend this siding option, especially if you’re looking for a long-term solution to hail and other weather.
The Importance of Hiring Guns N Hoses
A licensed contractor will be able to help you decide which shingles and siding you should use. If you live in Calgary, our local contractors will be able to provide you with the best recommendations that will help protect your home as best as possible from hail, wind, rain, snow, and sun. Yes, even UV rays can damage your home!
If your home has been damaged by hail, or if your materials are aging, it may be time for an upgrade.
Here is what you can expect when you call us in!
What To Expect
Evaluation
All roofing and siding replacement projects begin with a thorough evaluation of your current roofing and siding materials. Your experienced contractor will look for signs of wear and tear, damage, leaks and other issues. This inspection also includes the overall structural integrity of your property, not just the materials on top.
Your contractor will also take into consideration the age of your home to determine the best replacement options.
Recommendation
Based on the above information, your roofing and siding contractor will provide a detailed recommendation outlining their findings.
Your contractor will go over impact-resistant shingle and siding options, pros and cons of each, and pricing to help you find the perfect option for your needs, budget and taste.
Finally, an estimated timeline will be provided to help you plan for your material replacement accordingly.
Shingle & Siding Replacement
The area around your home is prepped to protect landscaping and windows The old shingle and siding materials are then carefully removed and the underlayment is inspected and repaired if needed.
The new, impact-resistant shingle and siding materials are installed according to manufacturer specifications and local building codes. This includes laying underlayment, installing flashing and placing the impact-resistant shingles themselves.
Once the installation is complete, your contractor will conduct a final inspection to ensure quality workmanship. The site is cleaned up and any debris, excess materials and tools are removed. The only sign that we were there will be your beautiful new hail-resistant roof and siding!
Guns N Hoses is proud to offer industry leading 15 year workmanship warranties, as well as, our trusted leak-free guarantee. You’ll rest easy knowing our team is with you every step of the way.
Why Choose Guns N Hoses
We take pride in high-quality work you can rely on, this hail season and beyond. We don’t give up until you are satisfied with our services.
VIIP Service
Just like different styles of siding and shingles, we understand that every client and project is different. That’s why we treat you like a VIIP – a Very Important and Individual Person.
We Have You Covered
When you have questions about your home’s exterior or renovation project, we want to help. Please give us a call so we can assist in any way!
Leave No Trace
We’re polite and clean up after ourselves. After we complete your shingle or siding replacement, you’ll never know we were there!
Zero Leaks, Guaranteed!
We ensure your projects are completed quickly, efficiently, and correctly, the first time.
Don’t let the threat of hail put a damper on your summer. Guns N Hoses roofing has been protecting Calgary homeowners for 20 years. Call us today to discuss your hail-resistant roofing and siding options!
Frequently Asked Questions About Hail Resistant Roofing and Siding
What makes impact-resistant shingles different from standard shingles?
Unlike traditional three-tab or architectural shingles, which are primarily made of asphalt or fiberglass, impact-resistant shingles are reinforced with a synthetic rubber-based polymer called SBS. This design makes the shingles significantly stronger and more flexible, allowing them to withstand extreme weather conditions like hail, debris, and wind speeds exceeding 200 km/h.
When should I replace my roof to ensure I’m better protected from hail?
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, about 15-20 years, or if you notice buckling or missing shingles, it’s time to consider a high-quality roofing material replacement.
Can I replace my siding anytime?
Yes. Guns N Hoses is proud to offer year round service so you can better protect your home when you really need it.
How long does it take to install my new siding?
Every installation job is unique, so it’s difficult to give you a timeline online. When we arrive for your in-home consultation, we’ll take into consideration the size of your home, any necessary repairs, and the current siding that needs to be replaced. All of these factors can greatly affect your job time. But no matter the timeline, we’re dedicated to fast, professional and high-quality workmanship and service.
