How Shifting Weather Patterns are Changing the Roofing Industry
Extreme weather is becoming the norm in the United States, with surges in severe storms, hurricanes, tornadoes, wildfires and other natural disasters experienced throughout the country. Thanks to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the 2024 hurricane season is one of the most expensive on record, with losses estimated between $125 to $129 billion. In addition, 2024 was also the most active year for tornadoes since 2017.
Not only are these increases in extreme weather impacting homeowners, but they’re also significantly impacting the roofing industry as contractors and manufacturers alike scramble to adapt.
Roofers on the Rise
The demand for roofers will continue to rise as building codes are revised and the need for roof repairs and replacements increases. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment for roofers will grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average of all other occupations. The increased need for roofers is likely due to the growing need to replace retiring roofers combined with the increased demand for roof repairs and replacements caused by extreme weather.
The Future of Building Codes
Due to an increase in severe weather, building codes can no longer keep up with future or current conditions. With that being said, scientists are able to make more accurate predictions based on more recent data with the help of AI to best reflect the impact of changing weather patterns.
Most building codes are outdated and don’t account for multiple weather disasters. At last year’s Building Innovation Conference, updated guides included more accurate climate predictions such as flood projections, precipitation frequency and criteria for tornado-resistant design.
Although research is taking place now, we likely won’t see a full scope until the 2027 International Building Code update release.
Roof Options for Homeowners
To keep up with severe weather changes, roofing contractors and manufacturers are constantly finding ways to mitigate potential damage with more resilient roofing materials. Most manufacturers sell impact-resistant shingles that help absorb the force of hail, and the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) even has a report testing the top impact-resistant brands for homeowners to see how they perform.
What You Can Do
You can’t change the weather, but there are steps that homeowners can take to prepare their homes for future weather-related disasters.
- Have your roof routinely inspected and maintained by roofing specialists. Not all damage is visible, and if you live in an area impacted by extreme weather, it’s likely your roof has suffered from some sort of damage.
- Stay up to date on your insurance policies. As insurance claims rise from increased storm damage from weather disasters, many providers are updating their policies which may reduce your coverage or raise your premium.
- Consider the age of your roof. A good rule of thumb is to consider getting a roof replacement every 20 years for shingle roofs. These materials, due to exposure, weaken over time and become more susceptible to damage as they age.
- Consider upgrading your home with a non-traditional roof. If you live in a high-risk area with increasingly severe thunderstorms, you might want to consider a metal roof or impact-resistant shingles. Talk to your local roofing expert about what options are best for your local climate, budget and home aesthetic.
At RAFTRx, our team of experienced roofing professionals is constantly staying up to date with major weather events and understands the impact they have on your home. We’ll give you a complete picture of your roof’s health and help you prioritize what needs to be addressed immediately and what you need to keep an eye on. Need help with your insurance company? We can help walk you through the claims process. Contact us today.