Some materials are capable of withstanding the high winds and torrential rains of a hurricane. Read on if you want to know the best roofing options for hurricanes and how to protect your home.
The Biggest Threats to Prepare For
1. Heavy Rains Caused by Wind
The water damage caused by wind-driven heavy rain is not the same as a flood. It’s rain that has been created and moved about by the winds. It’s important to note that wind-driven heavy rain may not be covered by your insurance. The rain would not have reached your home without the wind. It is crucial to protect your home and understand your coverage before a storm.
2. Debris Impact
The impact of debris picked up by the wind and blown into your home or roof can be another unexpected event during hurricane season. Hurricane forces can also transport items to your home or roof. Look for low-hanging or dead branches that could become projectiles during a storm. A tree branch can damage your roof just as much as hurricane winds.
3. High Winds & Uplift
Hurricanes are known for their high winds and uplift, which can leave a trail of destruction. No matter what roofing material you select for your home, make sure it is checked and repaired as necessary. This will help prevent weak points where hurricane winds or uplift could tear apart your roof.
4. Tornadoes
The conditions during hurricane season are often conducive to tornadoes. As with hurricanes, understanding and choosing the right roofing materials and designs for your home is the best way to ensure your roof will be protected against a storm.
Roofing Materials: What Building Material Should You Use?
Continue reading to find out more about the options available.
Metal Roofs
Let’s begin with the best: metal roofs. Metal roofs have been shown to be resistant to wind speeds of up to 140 mph. Metal roofs are the best option for protecting your home from Category 4 hurricanes. Metal roofing is a popular choice for areas prone to hurricanes.
When it comes to metal roofing design guidelines, there are several things to consider, such as your roof deck, slope of the roof, and roof form. Metal roofs are structural panel roof systems that work best when installed professionally by individuals who know how to lay out the panels and attach them with the proper attachments.
Incorrect installation is the main reason for metal roof failure. When you are considering an upgrade to your roof, choose a roofing contractor who understands metal roof design.
Consider where metal roofs are susceptible to damage, for example, during hailstorms.
Ceramic Tile Roofs
Another popular roofing material in Florida is ceramic tile roofs. These roofs are not as resistant to hurricane winds as metal roofing, but they can still withstand wind speeds of 100+ mph.
Ceramic tile roofing is different from metal roofing. It uses individual tiles, which are attached with clips, wire, and concrete. You’ll see pre-drilled screws for tiles on the highest roof pitch or at the gable edge. This is to prevent tiles from blowing off in areas prone to hurricanes. You’ll also need a professional installer and quality underlayment to get the best out of your ceramic or clay tiles. You can have a clay or ceramic tile roof for up to 50 years if you maintain and repair it.
What is the difference between slate, clay, and ceramic tile roofs? Weight is the biggest difference between all three types. Ceramic tile, which is lighter than clay tiles, can be a great option for Florida homeowners who want a certain look but do not have a home that can support heavier clay tiles.
Wood Shake Roofs
Wood shakes are a popular choice for roofs in Florida, depending on your location. These roofs are wind-resistant and can withstand wind speeds of up to 200 mph. They are not at the top of our list due to their high cost and complex design requirements. The installation, repair, and replacement of wooden shakes are extremely labor-intensive.
The degradation of the wood and the potential for fire or infestation by insects are also issues with wood shake roofs. Sealants are often included in new wood shake roofs to help protect against some of these problems.
Asphalt Shingles
Most roofers and homeowners are familiar with common asphalt shingle roofs. These roofs are cost-effective and can withstand wind speeds of over 100 mph.
FEMA recommends using nails instead of staples to install asphalt shingles if your home is located in an area prone to hurricanes and high winds. This will help secure the asphalt roof shingles in a manner more likely to survive the hurricane season and accompanying storms.
Get Your Roof Ready for Hurricanes Today!
Don’t forget about your family and yourself after you have prepared your roof. Call our team for help understanding roofing materials and designs. We are happy to provide a no-obligation-free roof inspection that will prepare you for a hurricane in hurricane season. Need help with wind storm damage? Our team can help with emergency repairs that will restore your home following extreme weather.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing, one of the best roofing companies in Saint Petersburg, FL! Ted is a Master Elite Weather Stopper GAF Roofing Contractor, a double award winner of Best Steep-Slope Contractor from GAF and achiever of Master Elite Consumer Protection Excellence from GAF. He has been serving the Pinellas County area since 1978. Old Time Roofing has a tradition of quality workmanship, servicing residential and commercial properties.
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