As cold air from the North collides with warm air from the Gulf of Mexico, the stage is set for spring hailstorms – and now they cover more territory than ever.

In the United States, hailstorms typically hover over the West and South Central regions, but they also now affect the Midwest, East and Southeast with about two-thirds of the U.S. experiencing 1-inch or larger hailstones. These can damage or penetrate your roof cover and insulation, leading to millions of dollars in damage annually.

If you review FM Global’s latest hail damage map, “severe” and “very severe” hail ratings have more widespread applicability – and those areas continue to expand. This map will most likely encompass even more areas during the lifetime of the projects you’re designing and building today.

Damage From Foot Traffic
In addition to the hail damage, there is also additional roof damage that occurs when workers – no matter how careful – are performing repairs or general maintenance. When you multiply the weight of several 150-plus pound people walking around on your roof (along with their equipment), that’s a reason to reinforce and protect it with a quality coverboard.

Specify Products That Meet FM Global Criteria
Utilizing a hard coverboard for your roof is more important than ever. A coverboard can minimize the damage – from hail and foot traffic – to the membrane and insulation. It creates a watertight covering to protect the interior of a building and provides a stable layer for the membrane to adhere.

As FM Global insurance approval standards become increasingly more stringent, DEXcell^® BRAND Roof Board provides products for an assembly that will meet or exceed those requirements. Whichever DEXcell® product you specify, you’ll have added peace of mind and extra protection for an important investment.

Download DEXcell^® Product MasterSpec^® sections HERE.

We’ve Got You Covered with Three Outstanding DEXcell^® BRAND Roof Boards
The National Gypsum line of DEXcell^® covers the entire spectrum of commercial roof applications. DEXcell^® Glass Mat Roof Board is recommended for mechanically attached systems, metal roofs and wood shake underlayment. It’s also an excellent thermal and fire barrier. DEXcell^® FA Glass Mat Roof Board has a heavy-duty coated facer and is recommended for fully adhered roof systems – including the roof side of parapet walls. DEXcell^® Cement Roof Board provides superior moisture resistance, making it suitable for nearly every roof system.