Roof Shingles That Stand Up to Hail, Intense Sun and Black Algae

“Choosing shingles that are designed to solve a problem like hail damage, UV damage or the growth of black algae can help your roof last longer and improve the value of your home,” says Laura Blood, a roofing products expert for Sears Home Services.

So consider replacing your roof with one of these problem-solving shingles.

1. Fend Off Hail Damage with Impact-Resistant Shingles

If you live in an area prone to severe hail storms, consider a roof replacement using impact-resistant shingles. Hail can happen almost anywhere, but your roof is an especially good candidate for impact-resistant shingles if you live in one of these states:

• Colorado
• Kansas
• Minnesota
• Nebraska
• South Dakota
• Texas
• Wyoming

When replacing a hail-damaged roof, you could choose the same common shingle that's already on your house. But then next time hail hits, you face the same hassle again — hunting for a reputable roofing contractor who isn't already booked up, finding time to get multiple bids, and filling out the paperwork for insurance claims. Not to mention running the risk of having your insurance premiums go up because you've made multiple claims.

Impact-resistant shingles cost more than common shingles, but can make economic sense in the long run — especially if your insurance provider offers discounts for homes with roofs with impact-resistance shingles.

2. Combat UV Rays with Solar-Reflective Shingles

Hail storms aren't the only weather that can damage roof shingles. Hot sun can cause common asphalt roof shingles to age faster, especially in parts of Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Sunny California requires roofs to have solar-reflective shingles to reduce energy consumption.

“No matter where you live, dark-colored common asphalt roof shingles absorb the sun's heat, which can make your attic hotter and increase cooling bills,” Blood explains, “especially if your roof is not well ventilated or your attic insulation is compromised.”

Although solar-reflective shingles cost more, the lower energy bills offset the higher cost over time. Your new solar-reflective roof will also last longer and add to the value of your home.

3. Prevent Black Streaks with Algae-Resistant Shingles

When you see black streaks or patches on your roof, you might think it’s soot or dirt. Actually, those black streaks and patches are an algae that grows on roofs. While algae won’t hurt the roof, unsightly black streaks and patches do decrease your home’s curb appeal.

Roof algae is most common in humid climates and often shows up on the north side of the roof. It’s different from green algae or moss, which also like moist shade. “You can lighten the streaks with a bleach and water solution,” Blood says, “but that fix is temporary.”

You can prevent algae the next time you replace your roof by installing algae-resistance shingles that have copper impregnated in their granules. “Copper kills roof algae, which is why you don't see black streaks around copper flashing and vent pipes,” Blood explains.

Choose Sears Home Services for Your Problem-Solving Roof

Sears Home services is a leading installer of Owens Corning shingles, including hail-resistant roofing systems, COOL roofing shingles for high-UV regions and Streakguard algae-resistant shingles.

Schedule a roof replacement consultation with Sears Home Services when you’re ready to replace your roof with a high-quality Owens Corning roofing system.