When a hurricane hits your home and the roof gets damaged, you can trust your home insurance policy to cover the cost of repairs. However, the type of roof you have and how well you take care of it can affect things like premiums and coverage.
If you want to avoid jumping through insurance loopholes to pay for your roof repairs, then you should first invest in the best roof for a hurricane. That way, it’s much less likely to receive damage or require extensive repairs.
Here are the factors that make a roof stable for hurricane weather and how to find the best long-term option.
Hurricane-Resistant Roofing Factors
First of all, it’s important to understand hurricane roof safety tips and factors that affect roof strength. Even the most hurricane-resistant roofing won’t work if there are gaps in the material.
Storm-proof roofs use strong materials and are made a certain way to prevent damage from wind or rain. Proper installation and regular maintenance keep them in good condition.
Materials Used
Not all roofing materials can handle the same weather patterns. Some of the cheaper ones can’t handle the stress of heavy wind and rain. You also have to take into account whether or not they can survive wind-blown debris.
General speaking, metal is one of the best roofing materials for hurricanes. How it’s installed also matters, though.
Roof Design
Another factor to consider is your roof design. Hip roofs slope on all sides and offer the most wind resistance. Something like a flat roof is one of the worst ones, as they can’t shed wind well. Flat roofs also tend to be made out of membranes that can rip and tear.
Installation Methods
The fastening systems play an important role in how well your roofing materials stay secured. They should attach to the underlying structure with nails, screws, or clips designed to resist hurricanes.
Maintenance
Your home’s roof can last more than 50 years depending on the material and how well you take care of it. As such, regular maintenance is key for making sure that it’s ready for hurricane season. That means tightening loose pieces and replacing broken shingles.
Environmental Factor
You need to prepare your roof for the type of weather your area receives every year. Hurricane-prone areas need roofs rated for higher wind speeds.
Homeowners should also take into account how they prepare their yards for hurricane season. Trimming your trees means fewer branches can chip away at your home. Putting away lawn chairs, tables, and other equipment will also keep them from damaging your roof.
Roofing Materials for Hurricanes
There’s a wide variety of durable roofing options for homeowners living in an area that has hurricane weather. Your top choices include metal, concrete, and clay tiles, asphalt shingles, and slate. However, BUR systems and EPDM roof membranes are popular options for flat roofs.
Metal Roofing
Metal roofing is a durable and cost-effective way to protect your home from hurricane weather.
To begin with, metal won’t wear down the same as a cheaper material. It can handle whatever you throw at it, which helps if you’re in an area with a lot of trees and potential debris.
They don’t require much maintenance, and metal can last a long time. This type of roofing is also somewhat energy-efficient, as it stays cool during the summer months.
Concrete and Clay Tiles
Both concrete and clay tiles are able to withstand extreme weather conditions. They’re highly resistant to wind and impact, and they won’t break easily. The problem is securing them properly so the wind doesn’t turn them into dangerous projectiles.
Make sure that your roof installers fasten them with adhesive or mechanical fasteners. They should also use a strong underlayment to protect against water.
Regular maintenance involves inspecting the tiles for any cracked or broken pieces.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingle roofs are generally more affordable than tiled or metal roofing. However, that doesn’t mean they’re less effective against hurricane-strength winds.
The key is to look for shingles rated for wind speeds of up to 130 mph or higher. There are also architectural shingles available that are thicker and more durable.
The combination of roofing nails and roofing adhesive should make sure the shingles stay during high winds. Regular inspections are necessary to identify any loose or damaged shingles.
Slate Roofing
Slate roofing is one of the most durable and long-lasting options. At best, it can handle wind speeds of up to 110 mph or more. This all depends on how well it is installed and the tile thickness.
Like with concrete and clay tiles, you’ll want to inspect them regularly for any cracked or loose tiles. They should be secured with stainless steel or copper nails with a strong underlayment.
Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Systems
A built-up roof has multiple layers of asphalt alternated with ply sheets applied over a roof deck and insulation. This type of roofing is very durable and can withstand heavy rain and UV rays. It’s also easy to repair and low-cost.
The main problem is that they may not last as long as other options.
EPDM Roof Membrane
EPDM membrane is generally applied to low-slope roofs and buildings with flat roofs. It can handle all kinds of weather conditions ranging from hail to storms. They can also last over 50 years if kept in good condition.
One thing to keep in mind is that EPDM roofing is susceptible to ponding water. This shouldn’t happen if the membrane is installed well, but it’s important to keep an eye out for it anyway.
Find the Best Roof for a Hurricane
The best roof for a hurricane will be the one that can handle a combination of heavy rain, heavy wind, and potential impact by airborne debris. As such, you’ll want something like metal or tile that won’t tear or break easily. It all depends on your area and the different environmental factors you face.
Innovative Roofing specializes in both commercial and residential roofing in the South Florida area. We have a combined experience of over 150 years and 40 qualified team members on our staff. Get a free estimate now to receive a written evaluation of your current roof.
