Can You Get a Roof That Is Hurricane-Proof?
What does it mean when news agencies say that a category 5 monster hurricane is developing over the coastal waters? A category 1 hurricane must have at least 74 mph wind speed. As the intensity of a hurricane increases, so does its classification. Category 5 hurricanes have winds exceeding 156 mph. Is it possible to have a roof that is hurricane-proof with winds of this speed? These 8 tips may seem impossible, but they are the best way to prepare a roof for hurricane season.
- Shape of the Roof
The shape is important when it comes to wind resistance. Aerodynamics can make the difference between the roof taking the full impact of high winds or minimizing the impact. Engineers have designed hurricane-resistant roofs in hexagonal or octagonal shapes. Multi-panel designs reduce wind loads. If you don’t like the hexagon or octagon shape, consider a hip roof with a 4-slope. In high-wind situations, multiple slopes are better.
- Slope of the Roof
A roof that is hurricane-proof should have multiple slopes at the correct angle. A traditional 4-slope hip roof with 30-degree slopes offers a more wind-resistant appearance than a 2-slope gabled roof.
- Pressure Strategy
News agencies often feature dramatic video footage showing entire roofs being blown from homes. High wind pressure creates a powerful lift beneath corners and eaves. Roof designs that have a central shaft connecting roof ridges with the interior space, which becomes the largest depression area, will help balance the lift effects of high winds. Reduce eaves by 20 inches to lessen the pressure on the uplift area.
- Consider Egress from Your Roof
A hurricane-proof roof strategy must include all points of exit. The formula for uplift includes vents, doors, garage entrances, and windows. It is important to protect them adequately.
- Roof Top Layer
Are standard shingles superior to concrete or clay tiles? Anything that can fly off the roof is a projectile. It is frightening to imagine a clay tile flying through the air at 100 mph. Engineers and safety experts recommend metal roofing because it is the safest and most hurricane-proof option. There are many metals available to create a beautiful roof that is also safe. Metallic coatings are available to improve durability and energy efficiency. Common choices include aluminum, copper, stainless steel, or zinc. Metal roofs can be tinted with special pigments.
- Upgrade the Unseen
The image of roof shingles flying from roofs during a storm is easily recalled. But beneath the shingles, there is an important layer of protection. Improve the quality of your barrier to make it more hurricane-proof. Upgrade the membrane around roof structures like chimneys, dormers, and roof decking to a higher quality.
- Hire Expert Roofing Professionals
A roof that is hurricane-proof requires special expertise. An average roof will not be able to withstand even the low-level winds of a hurricane without some damage. You should partner with a company that is experienced in roofs that are subjected to high winds. Your home is the most important investment you will ever make. Consider roofing companies as part of your investment. Choose a roofing company with a proven track record of excellence in the field of hurricane-proof roofing like A Old Time Roofing.
- Start with a Roof Inspection
To prepare your roof for the hurricane season, you should schedule an inspection with a professional roofing contractor. Hurricanes such as Katrina and Ike can cause serious damage to the average house. You need a roof that is more than just ordinary if you want your family and home to be protected. Please contact us to arrange an inspection and work with roofers experienced in hurricane strategies.
This post was written by Ted Williams! Ted is the owner of A Old Time Roofing which offers Roofing Contractors In Clearwater 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.
