Hail Protection That Works

Choose impact-resistant shingles tested by IBHS for the best protection against hail damage.

Did you know the shingles you choose could save time and money?

Last year, more than 4,000 hailstorms caused over a billion dollars in damage across the United States. Nearly all these storms forced homeowners to file insurance claims and pay deductibles as high as 5% of the value of a home.

To reduce this risk, many homeowners choose Class 4 impact-resistant (IR) shingles. Yet, years of research by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) show many IR shingles do not perform as expected in real-world storms.

As a solution, IBHS developed a comprehensive impact-resistance test to help homeowners select shingles that offer consistent protection from hail. This advanced testing determines shingle performance by replicating real-world conditions. Scores in the IBHS Impact-Resistant Shingle Performance Ratings range from “Poor” to “Excellent” when evaluating dents/ridges, tears, granule loss and overall performance.

Homeowners installing a shingle roof and seeking the Hail Supplement to their FORTIFIED designation must use a product with an overall score of “Excellent” or “Good” on the IBHS Roof Shingle Hail Impact Ratings.

Behind The Science:
Why use impact-resistant shingles versus standard shingles?
Impact-resistant (IR) shingles are designed to minimize damage caused by hailstorms. A damaged roof can lead to an insurance claim and the cost of your deductible. “Excellent” and “Good” IR shingles help prevent the need for a new roof.

How is the IBHS hail impact test different?
IBHS developed a revolutionary way to manufacture laboratory hail that mimics real hailstones, so the results replicate real-world damage. While other researchers obtain test products fresh from the production line, IBHS buys shingles just like the consumer—from local suppliers. That means when IBHS tests shingles, they are similar to what homeowners install on their roofs.

Why test with real-world conditions?
Did you know real hailstones don’t just bounce? They can also shatter or turn into “slush” when hitting shingles. The different forms can cause different types of damage that weaken the roof’s protective layer. Whether caused by dents, cracks, or lost granules, hail damage to shingles can lead to leaks and make roofs more susceptible to additional storm damage.

For homes that regularly face hail, using one of the FORTIFIED High Wind & Hail-compliant shingles can save both the hassle and expense of repeated shingle replacement.


Read more of our tips and ideas in the Homeowner Resources section.

Stay In The Know

Do you want to keep up with the latest resiliency research? Would you like timely tips and reminders to keep your home safe from Mother Nature? Are you interested in the science behind the FORTIFIED standard?  Then sign up for the FORTIFIED Update, today!