Here in New England, we can experience some pretty severe weather, from rain and wind to snow and ice. To best protect your home, it’s important to choose the right materials for your exteriors that will withstand all that harsh weather. Here’s a look at the most weather-resistant building materials you can incorporate into your home, from roofing to siding.

Hail-Resistant Roofing

Our area isn’t immune to hailstorms in the summer, which can cause a lot of damage. Even small hailstones can significantly impact your roof, either by bruising the shingles or by stripping off granules, exposing the underlayment and accelerating deterioration.

Impact-resistant roofing materials are specifically engineered to withstand the force of hailstones and high winds. Roofing shingles with a Class 4 rating are particularly resilient and can endure storm damage better than regular shingles.

You may also want to consider metal roofing, especially metal tiles with a stone coating. These are highly durable and offer excellent protection against wind, rain, and hail. Whether you choose impact-resistant shingles or metal tiles, upgrading your roof can improve your home’s performance during extreme weather.

Impact-Resistant Windows

Windows and glass doors are vulnerable during major storms. They can shatter, exposing your home to the elements and even potential intruders. Impact-resistant windows have a special inner layer that helps keep the glass intact during impacts. While the glass may crack under extreme conditions, it won’t shatter completely. This prevents water from entering and keeps your home secure.

Although impact-resistant windows may still need replacement if they sustain significant damage, they can reduce the overall destruction caused by severe weather. 

Moisture-Resistant Insulation

You need adequate insulation to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures year-round. However, if you live in an area that experiences heavy storms and humidity, such as the Merrimack Valley in summer, moisture-resistant insulation can offer extra protection.

Standard fiberglass insulation is commonly used in homes, but moisture-resistant options, like Expanded Polystyrene Insulation (EPS) and Extruded Polystyrene Insulation (XPS), are better suited for regions prone to water damage. Both materials are superior to fiberglass, with XPS offering enhanced moisture resistance due to its manufacturing process.

Upgrading to moisture-resistant insulation now could help prevent flooding and water damage in the future while improving your home’s overall energy efficiency.

Fiber Cement Siding

No matter the structural material, the exterior siding of your home is its first line of defense against the elements. James Hardie fiber cement siding is durable, impact-resistant, and resists moisture and fire.

Unlike wood siding, which can warp or swell in moisture or lose its paint and color due to hail, fiber cement maintains its integrity over time. It’s also resistant to fading, chipping, and impact, making it an ideal material for homes in storm-prone areas.

Building Envelope Sealant

The “building envelope” refers to the physical barrier between the inside of your home and the outside environment. A well-sealed envelope is crucial for maintaining comfort indoors and protecting your home from water damage.

Sealing common problem areas like windows and doors with high-quality sealant can prevent issues such as mold, cracked mortar, or peeling wallpaper. A properly sealed envelope is essential for ensuring your home is ready to withstand extreme weather, as it keeps both heat and moisture from entering or escaping.

Garage Floor Waterproofing

Your garage is often home to valuable possessions, making it just as important to stormproof as other areas of your home. Waterproofing your concrete garage floor can prevent water damage and help protect items stored in your garage.

By upgrading your home with these weather-resistant materials, you can enhance its durability, comfort, and safety against the harsh weather of New England.

Contact Hi-Tech Windows and Siding

 

Whether you need new windows, roofing, or siding, we can help protect your home throughout the seasons. Contact us today at 800-851-0900 or Request a Quote online.