- HEP Roofing
- Impact Resistance

Impact Resistance
Impact Resistance | Metal Roofing | Roofing | Newport
Bayside breezes, sudden squalls, and the occasional hailstorm are part of life in Newport—yet your home doesn’t have to bear the brunt of it. HEP’s impact-resistance system combines high-gauge steel panels with an interlocking fastening method that disperses force and prevents uplift, keeping shingles in place even when gusts top 120 mph. Unlike traditional asphalt that can crack or curl, our metal roofing shrugs off dents, resists corrosion, and sheds water so quickly that leaks never stand a chance.
Beyond toughness, you’ll feel the difference every season. A UV-reflective finish lowers attic temperatures in August, while a high-density insulating underlayment deadens rain noise and trims winter heating bills. Choose from coastal charcoal, harbor blue, or any of a dozen designer colors, all backed by a transferable lifetime warranty. HEP’s local crew handles everything—from permit pull to final inspection—with the courtesy and craftsmanship Newport homeowners have trusted for over 25 years. Discover how metal roofing can make your house the strongest, smartest, and best-looking on the block—then schedule your free storm-ready inspection today.
FAQs
What makes an impact-resistant metal roof different from a standard metal roof?
Impact-resistant panels are engineered and laboratory-tested to withstand hail and wind-blown debris without denting or puncturing. They are typically manufactured from thicker-gauge steel or aluminum, incorporate high-strength alloy coatings, and carry a Class 4 UL 2218 impact rating—the highest rating available. Standard metal panels may still perform well, but the impact-rated versions give Newport homeowners extra assurance and may qualify for insurance discounts.
How is the impact resistance of a metal roof tested and certified?
Most reputable products undergo the UL 2218 Impact Resistance test. In this test, steel balls of various diameters are dropped from heights up to 20 ft to replicate hailstones striking the roof at high velocity. To earn a Class 4 rating—the top tier—panels must show no cracking, splitting, or perforation after the test. Always ask your contractor for documentation of UL 2218 Class 4 certification when comparing metal roofing options.
Will an impact-resistant metal roof still dent from large hail or falling branches?
While no roofing material is completely damage-proof, Class 4 impact-rated metal roofs are designed to resist dents and maintain structural integrity even under severe hail (2" in diameter) or small tree limbs. Minor cosmetic dents are possible in extreme events, but the panels should not crack, leak, or lose their protective finish. If a rare dent does occur, individual panels can usually be replaced easily without disturbing the rest of the roof.
Does impact-resistant metal roofing cost more than standard asphalt or non-rated metal?
Yes, the upfront cost is typically 10–20 % higher than standard metal and 2–3 times that of architectural asphalt shingles. However, Newport homeowners often recover much of that premium through lower maintenance, longer service life (40–70 years), reduced roof-replacement cycles, potential insurance discounts of up to 35 %, and improved resale value. Over the long term, impact-resistant metal is frequently the most cost-effective option.
How long does it take to install an impact-resistant metal roof in Newport, and will weather cause delays?
Most single-family homes in Newport can be completed in 2–5 days once materials are on-site. Installation can proceed in cool or warm temperatures, and light rain usually does not halt work because underlayment is installed as sections are stripped. Heavy rain, high winds, or coastal storm warnings may pause the crew for safety, but those delays are generally brief. Your contractor should provide a detailed schedule and keep you informed of any weather-related adjustments.
Is impact-resistant metal roofing energy-efficient and suitable for Newport’s coastal climate?
Yes. Metal reflects a significant portion of solar radiation, lowering attic temperatures and reducing cooling costs by 10–25 %. Many panels come with ENERGY STAR-approved cool-roof coatings that enhance this benefit. For Newport’s salt-laden air, aluminum or galvalume steel with a high-performance PVDF paint finish offers excellent corrosion resistance. Properly installed flashing and fasteners provide strong wind uplift protection, making impact-rated metal an ideal long-term roofing solution for our coastal environment.