At Best Choice Roofing, we take pride in offering homeowners in Athens, GA, top-notch roofing solutions with three main types of asphalt shingles: three-tab, architectural, and premium. Each of these shingle types provides durability and protection, but Georgia’s unpredictable weather, including hailstorms, can still pose a threat to your roof. Athens doesn’t see hail as often as some parts of the country, but when it does happen, it can pack a punch. So, how big does the hail need to be to damage your roof? Let’s dive in and find out!
Hail in Athens, GA: What You Need to Know
While Athens isn’t a hailstorm hotspot, the city sees its fair share of hail, especially during the spring and summer storm season. Hail sizes can vary from pea-sized pellets to golf ball-sized stones or larger. With the humid, stormy climate in this area, it’s crucial to know what kind of impact hail can have on your roof, particularly on asphalt shingles.
What Size Hail Will Damage Asphalt Shingles?
Different sizes of hail can have varying effects on the type of asphalt shingles you have. Here’s a breakdown of how hail damage impacts three-tab, architectural, and premium shingles:
Three-Tab Shingles: 1 to 1.25 Inches Three-tab shingles are the most affordable option, but they’re also the most susceptible to hail damage. Hail that’s as small as 1 inch in diameter can start causing problems. At this size, hail can create dents, cracks, or granule loss, which weakens the shingle’s ability to protect your home. For three-tab shingles, hailstones of 1.25 inches or more are likely to cause visible damage like missing pieces or exposed underlayment.
Architectural Shingles: 1.25 to 1.5 Inches Architectural shingles are more robust and can withstand slightly larger hailstones compared to three-tab shingles. However, when hail reaches about 1.25 to 1.5 inches in diameter, even architectural shingles can suffer damage. The thicker, multi-layered design of these shingles offers some extra protection, but large enough hailstones can still knock off granules or crack the shingles, leading to leaks.
Premium Shingles: 1.5 Inches or Larger. Premium shingles are designed for maximum durability and typically offer the best protection against hail. But even these high-quality shingles can be damaged by hail that’s 1.5 inches or larger. While they might hold up better than their more affordable counterparts, hailstones of this size can still leave dents or even cause cracks, especially if the storm is particularly intense.
Why Choosing a Local Roofing Company Matters
When it comes to roof repairs after a hailstorm, choosing a local roofing company like Best Choice Roofing is essential. We understand the specific weather patterns in Athens, GA, and we’re familiar with the types of roofing materials that work best in this climate. Plus, local roofers are more invested in their community and reputation, meaning we’re here to provide long-term solutions, not just quick fixes.
Storm chasers, which often roll into town after a big storm, may offer lower prices, but they rarely stick around to guarantee their work. A local company like ours is always here to follow up on repairs, provide inspections, and ensure your roof lasts for years to come.
Protect Your Athens Roof from Hail Damage
Hailstorms may not happen every day in Athens, GA, but when they do, they can cause serious damage to your roof. Whether you have three-tab, architectural, or premium shingles, knowing what size hail can affect your roof is important for catching problems early. If you think that your roof has been hit by hail, don’t wait for the damage to get worse.
Contact Best Choice Roofing for a professional roof inspection. We’ll assess the damage and recommend the best course of action to keep your home safe and secure. Reach out today for expert service from your trusted local roofer!
