When it comes to the protection of buildings, the roof is the first line of defence against severe weather, and there are few weather events more devastating to a roofing system than hailstorms. In recent years, they have become more frequent and severe across the country. As the quintessentially Canadian atmospheric peril, hail presents a risk in all provinces, but disproportionately impacts Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Canada’s infamous “Hailstorm Alley” runs through south-central Alberta, from Calgary through Red Deer to Edmonton[1]. On average, the Prairies receive approximately 130 severe hail events per year[2].
According to Environment Canada, the severe thunderstorm warning criteria for hail is when hailstones of 20 mm in diameter or greater (nickel-sized or larger) are expected[3].
The degree of damage to properties, however, varies according to the individual hailstone size, shape and density, the duration of the hailstorm, the concentration of hailstones, and the accompanying wind speed and direction. Depending on these factors and the type of property at risk under consideration, the types of damage from hail could be cracks, tearing, spatter marks, dents, or cap sheet membrane damage[4].
Severe Hail = Nickel-Sized Hailstones or Larger
Did you know that the Calgary hailstorm on June 13, 2020, caused the filing of approximately 70,000 claims and over $1.2 billion in insured damage, thus eclipsing the $400 million hailstorm event 10 years prior? It was the fourth costliest natural disaster in Canada[5]!
When it comes to roof assemblies with severe hail rating, SOPREMA offers a wide range of solutions.
Click the links below to find out more important information about FM, CSA 123.21 and RoofNav.
Did you know that in 2019, Environment Canada reported that hailstones larger than 100 millimetres (four inches) in diameter (grapefruit-sized) fell around Spruce Grove, Alberta, while wind gusts topped 70 km/h (43 mph) west of Edmonton[6].
Did you know that the City of Calgary recently announced the implementation of a program to help Calgarians pay to repair their roofs with more resilient materials?
Always attentive to the professionals in the construction industry, SOPREMA is renowned as a pioneer for its new product development initiatives that meet and exceed the needs of its clients. The company was one of the first to develop automated equipment for the installation of membranes, and was the first roofing manufacturer to incorporate vegetated roof concepts into its product line. Innovation at SOPREMA also involves active participation in the development of new industry standards.
Choosing SOPREMA means choosing reliability. As a testimony to the trusted performance of its products, SOPREMA offers a complete warranty program that lives up to its reputation. You simply choose the type of warranty that meets your needs and let SOPREMA do the rest. When it comes to assemblies with severe hail rating, SOPREMA is the number one choice to ensure your total peace of mind.
[1] Damage from Hail, the Quintessentially Canadian Peril | AIR Worldwide (air-worldwide.com) [2] Environment and Climate Change Canada – Weather and Meteorology – Spring and summer weather hazards [3] Environment and Climate Change Canada – Weather and Meteorology – Spring and summer weather hazards [4] Damage from Hail, the Quintessentially Canadian Peril | AIR Worldwide (air-worldwide.com)¸ [5] List of costly or deadly hailstorms – Wikipedia, [6] Holy hail storm: Grapefruit-sized hail batters Edmonton-area | CBC Newshttps://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/grapefruit-sized-hail-crop-conditions-climate-change-1.5235981
SOPREMA has earned its place among the leaders of the building envelope industry by providing outstanding technical support and continuing education.
For more than 100 years, SOPREMA has developed its products with the idea that quality, sustainability and reliability of materials must match builders’ ambitions and expectations.
From the beginning of a project until its completion, the SOPREMA team delivers advice and knowledge to its customers regarding the design of plans and specifications, competitive pricing and installation techniques so the job is completed on time and on budget.
