Builders and homeowners have turned their attention to the weather in recent years, and construction trends are changing—but are they doing enough to make a difference?
In 2024, 60% of homeowners faced significant expenses as a result of extreme weather damage, with many paying $5,000+ out of pocket for repairs, according to Leafhome's recent Extreme Weather Report. This year, as weather events continue to increase in severity, the physical and financial risks continue to climb.
"[Our] new severe weather report found that only 33% of homeowners made home improvements to reduce severe weather risks," shared Courtney Klosterman, a Home Insights Expert at Hippo home insurance. Cost is considered to be a roadblock for homeowners, as are material and workforce shortages causing delays throughout the construction industry. When it comes to prioritizing your own property, Klosterman encourages homeowners to focus on "the specific climate risks in your area as the first step."
The Importance of Durable Building Materials
Unlike ever before, a rise in extreme weather events guides the future of construction and underscores the importance of choosing strong, weather-resistant materials. Climate change concerns are also reshaping home buying and home building industry, with more than half of homebuyers listing climate risk as a factor they consider, according to Hippo's survey.
"Our weather patterns are becoming increasingly more challenging to address," shares Tyler Grace, Owner of TRG Home Concepts/Co-Host of the Modern Craftsman Podcast. "The heat continues to rise while the air quality becomes worse. With renovation or remodeling projects, we must balance and discuss how our renovation will impact the entire performance of the home and how to properly do this without creating issues elsewhere."
“The building materials you choose act as a first line of defense in these conditions," added James White, Sr. Product & Market Manager at CertainTeed.
According to its 2024 U.S. Industry Trend Report, CertainTeed reported that 70% of consumers acknowledge that the trend in weather is noticeable, only 48% admit to feeling as though their homes are prepared for the worst. The same experts continue to work to improve installation methods and roofing systems. "A FORTIFIED roof is about more than protection; it’s about preparation," explained White. He went on to highlight that the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) found that FORTIFIED homes suffered significantly less damage during a recent hurricane.
Installation methods are a big part of this. White emphasized the opportunity for homeowners, noting "By sealing the roof deck and implementing enhanced installation methods, a FORTIFIED system can significantly reduce the risk of water intrusion and storm-related damage. It’s a smart investment for homeowners living in regions prone to extreme weather."
Homeowners and roofing contractors should consider a home's risk factors and choose building products with features that reduce damage:
- Class 4: Impact ratings against hail damage
- Class A. Roofing material and Type X gypsum to help limit the spreading of wildfire flames
- Class F. Wind rating to withstand up to 110 mph strong wind speeds.
White adds, "Solutions that offer a Class 4 impact rating have a stronger chance at protecting your home along with underlayments and house wraps with self adhering properties and watertight seals to protect against water damage and wind uplifts.”
Windows are a known vulnerability in both hurricanes and wildfires. More homeowners are now choosing impact-resistant windows, fire-rated glass, and storm windows to strengthen their building envelope. These window systems help limit water intrusion, wind damage, and heat exposure.
In hurricane zones, laminated glass or reinforced window frames can reduce breakage during debris impact; in wildfire-prone areas, fire-resistant windows add time for evacuation and protect interiors from radiant heat. As energy efficiency also becomes a priority, some window options now combine safety with better insulation to help lower energy bills.
Sustainability in the Building Materials Industry
In today's building materials sector, sustainability and reducing carbon emissions remains a focus for many. Products like Modern Mill's ACRE siding and MDLR Brands' LiteSIP panels are on the forefront of this innovation.
Additionally, many residential builders and contractors are open to integrating solar roofing systems (and yes, these are some of the best we've seen yet), indicating a growing awareness of eco-friendly materials and innovative options.
When it comes to using durable materials, metal roofs have been top-of-mind for many. “Metal roofs are one of the most sustainable roofing options available," shared Carlos Dias, Division President of Englert, a Great Day Improvements company. Metal roofing is also extremely durable. Dias adds, “Whether it’s high winds, hail, or heavy snowfall, metal roofs are engineered to withstand the toughest weather conditions."
Beyond the Roof: What Extreme Weather is Changing Indoors
It’s not just roofs and windows under pressure. Interior upgrades are also shifting with the weather.
Home builders and foundation repair specialists alike look to help homeowners improve thermal control and boost storm resistance, especially with an eye to preventing water damage and reduce structural stress. From reinforced concrete to safe rooms and storm shelters, these building structures improve the likelihood of safety during storm surges.
These choices reflect how climate concerns are now shaping the full home, not just what’s outside.
