The roof is the part of your house that safeguards you and your valuables. However, many homeowners neglect their roofing system. Hurricanes and high winds can cause your roof shingles to fall off. Because of this, a roof repair or replacement is necessary sooner than expected.
But you can always prepare for the worst. If your home is in a high-risk, hurricane-prone area, it’s time to use the best roofing material. This blog can serve as your guide in choosing a roof that holds up through years of high winds.
Benefits of Wind-Resistant Roofing
Properties with roof shingles can benefit from a wind-resistant roofing system. Regardless of where you live, we all experience harsh weather events. The best way to protect your valuables is by investing in wind-resistant roofing. They are more durable and hardwearing than the standard, non-wind resistant materials.
Roofs with windproof shingles are usually constructed with a high impact resistance. This means that they can resist wind gusts up to 140 miles per hour.
Top Roofing Materials For High Winds
No two roofing systems are alike. Different types of roofs have different strengths and weaknesses. In terms of wind resistance, let’s discuss the best roof materials for your home.
Clay Tiles
Clay tiles are ideal for hot and warm climates. Clay is a material that protects your home against the radiating heat from the sun. When installed properly, clay tiles can sustain wind speeds of up to 125 miles per hour.
Compared to other roofing options, clay tiles have lower wind resistance. Another disadvantage is they are quite expensive. Clay tiles cost around $7 to $10 per square foot.
Slate Tiles
Made of 100% natural stone, slate roof tiles will not flap around easily. Although they have an average wind speed resistance, slate tiles are too heavy to rip off. They can withstand wind speeds of around 110 mph.
In addition to wind assistance, slate roofs are known for their longevity and eco-friendliness. They are more durable than asphalt and wood shingles. With proper maintenance and upkeep, slate shingles can last up to 100 years. If you want value for money, this option is good for you.
Asphalt Roof Shingles
This is probably the most popular option among homeowners. The popularity of asphalt roof shingles is due to their price. They are less expensive at around $60 to $120 for a 100-square-foot roof.
However, asphalt shingles have lower wind resistance. They cannot withstand winds higher than 110 mph. If you live in an area with harsh weather and frequent hurricane conditions, the lifespan of asphalt shingles is up to 15 years only.
Your roof contractor must fasten the asphalt shingles properly. Always keep a close eye on the roof for any loose shingles that need some fixing. Contact your local roofing company for repair or maintenance work.
Wood Shakes
Most rustic wooden shingles are made from split logs. They have superior wind resistance properties when installed correctly. On average, wood shakes can resist winds of up to 173 mph.
However, they are on the pricier side than clay, concrete, or slate tiles. Wood shakes also need more maintenance because they are vulnerable to pests, mold, and fire. Make sure you are not in a forested or wildfire-prone area if you’re using wooden shakes or shingles.
Metal Roofing
When it comes to protecting your roof from wind, metal roofs are the safest option. A metal roof can withstand gusts up to 180 mph. This is the most wind-resistant solution in hurricane-prone areas. It is engineered to prevent hurricane-related roof issues from happening. Moreover, it has the highest rating possible for hail impact. The metal panels and screws will still be intact even after a windstorm.
In addition, metal roofing systems last longer than other options. Its lifespan is two to three times longer than traditional roofing materials. Another benefit of metal roofs is they are leak-proof. There’s no need to deal with water leakages when you choose metal roof panels.
Turn to Our Metal Roofing Contractors
Without a doubt, metal roofing is a viable option of choice for people in hurricane-prone regions. At Pittsburgh Metal Roofing, we are ready to install metal roofing systems in your home. Our team specializes in roof installations and repairs. To schedule an appointment, feel free to reach out to us today!