Autumn Storms 2025: why Gravel Remains the most Reliable Ballast for Flat Roofs

With the first autumn storms of 2025 behind us, the question is once again relevant: how do you keep flat roofs safe during heavy wind gusts? Despite new techniques and materials, gravel as ballast remains a proven and reliable choice for roofers and contractors. In this article, you will read why gravel is still the standard for storm-resistant construction.

Storm Damage on Flat Roofs: An Annual Risk

Autumn storms cause damage to buildings with flat roofs year after year. Loose roofing materials, blown-away panels, or damaged insulation can lead to high repair costs and downtime. For contractors and roofers, it is therefore crucial to work with a ballast solution that is storm-resistant.

Gravel has proven itself for decades in practice as reliable protection. While alternatives may sometimes seem lighter or cheaper, gravel offers a unique combination of weight, stability, and durability.

Why Gravel as Ballast Is So Effective

The strength of gravel lies in its simplicity. The weight keeps the roofing material firmly in place, even in strong winds. Additionally, gravel has several additional advantages that are often overlooked:

Storm resistance – gravel distributes weight evenly and prevents wind from getting a grip on the roofing material.
Protection of the roofing material – it prevents direct exposure to UV radiation and thus extends the lifespan.
Good water drainage – it keeps the top layer stable without rainwater accumulating.
Sustainable choice – gravel can easily be reused during renovation or replacement.

Especially in a time when extreme weather conditions occur more frequently, gravel remains a robust solution that proves itself time and again.

Practical Applications for Contractors and Roofers

For those who work with flat roofs daily, gravel is more than just ballast. It is a smart investment in security:

New construction projects → a safe foundation that prevents storm damage.
Renovation → gravel is easy to apply and relocate, often even on existing structures.
Maintenance → gravel-covered roofs are easily accessible for inspection and repair.

Conclusion

The autumn storms of 2025 once again demonstrate how important reliable ballast is for flat roofs. Gravel remains the most proven and safe solution, thanks to its storm resistance, durability, and additional protective properties. For contractors and roofers who want certainty with every project, gravel is therefore still the logical choice.