Some of the most remarkable images seen in news reporting on hurricanes depict entire roofs being lifted off homes and blown away. However, it doesn’t take a major storm to wreak havoc on a home’s roof; a day of unusually high winds can be enough to damage many standard types of roofing.
Best Wind-Resistant Roofing Options
Whether you have experienced roof damage from winds in the past or you simply want to be prepared for the climate and avoid costly roof repairs, investing in wind-resistant roofing options can help you protect your home from inclement weather. Outlined below are some of the best roofing options for standing up to high winds.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are widely considered the most secure type of roofing when high winds strike. Although some homeowners prefer the appearance of other roofing options, their durability sets them apart. Some metal roofs are designed to mimic the appearance of other roofing materials for a more pleasing aesthetic.
They are not the most affordable option, but metal roofs can stand up to winds as high as 160 miles per hour. Some homeowners may be eligible for discounts on their homeowner’s insurance rates due to the material’s fire resistance.
In addition, these roofs can be installed in large panels or sheets, which means there will be fewer seams where wind can gain entry and lift the roof up.
Slate Tiles
Slate tile is one of the heaviest roofing materials on the market, but that is precisely why it is such a good option in windy environments. Their average wind speed resistance is around 110 miles per hour, and they can last for as long as 100 years when properly maintained.
Before installing slate tiles, homeowners must ensure their home’s structure can support their weight. Keep in mind that a slate tile can cause some damage when it comes loose on account of its weight, so it is important to choose a roofer who is experienced in working with this material to ensure it is installed correctly.
Concrete & Clay Tiles
Although clay and concrete tiles are one of the more expensive types of roofing materials, they are a popular choice for their visual appeal as well as their ability to withstand wind. With resistance of around 130 miles per hour, there is little to worry about in many areas with this type of roof.
Keep in mind that debris that flows onto a clay or concrete tile on your roof in a particularly heavy gust of wind could cause chips or cracks, but the roofing itself is more likely to stay in place compared to many other materials.
Wood Shakes
A wood shake is a type of wooden shingle made out of split logs. These shingles require a lot of general maintenance but are often chosen for their natural beauty. Another bonus is their wind resistance, which is higher than slate, concrete or clay tiles but not as impressive as metal roofs.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt is one of the most popular roofing materials in the US thanks to its affordability, but this material is highly susceptible to wind damage because wind can lift the shingles’ edges and carry them away. In addition, debris being carried by heavy winds can knock the shingles off the home or remove their protective granules.
However, there are some types of shingles that are designed with heavy winds in mind. Homeowners who are considering asphalt shingles for a windy environment should ask their roofing contractors for suitable options. More resistant asphalt shingles tend to cost more than standard asphalt shingles but are worth the investment in areas where winds are expected to be a problem.
Additional Considerations For Wind-Resistant Roofing
Roofing materials are just one factor that determines a roof’s ability to stand up to wind. Here are some other considerations that influence how well prepared your roof is for bad weather.
The Roof’s Pitch
The roof’s pitch can influence how well it stays in place during high winds, with slopes of 30 degrees considered the most resistant to lifting in windy conditions.
Roof Overhang
If your roof has an overhang, it will be more vulnerable to sustaining damage from upforce winds. An overhang of 20 inches or less is considered ideal for reducing the potential for uplift.
The Roof’s Shape
Some roof and home shapes stand up better in high winds than others. Roofs that have multiple panels tend to perform best as they can reduce wind loads.
Reach Out To The Roofing Contractors At Adelphia Exteriors
A severe storm can occur with no notice, and homeowners who are unprepared could experience serious roofing problems that require costly repairs or replacement.
To find out more about the best roofing materials for the Northern Virginia climate or to receive an expert assessment of your roof’s ability to withstand inclement weather, contact the Northern VA roofing contractors at Adelphia Exteriors at (571) 200-2951 or request your free roof evaluation online.