How Much Wind Can a Roof Withstand?
10/31/2022
When purchasing a roof in an area prone to strong winds, hurricanes, or tornadoes, the first question you will probably ask is how much wind the roof can withstand. While the answer depends on a variety of factors, the average shingle roof can withstand up to 90-mile-per-hour winds, but with the application of roofing products, your roof can withstand winds up to 150 mph.
However, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says light structural damage starts at wind speeds of 50 mph. The two primary reasons for this are an aging roof and shoddy installation.
How Much Wind Can a Metal Roof Withstand?
Many metal materials have been tested and can hold up against winds blowing as strong as 140 mph. Metal roofs not only provide good protection against high winds, but they also protect against impact damage from debris, and their large interlock panels reduce the risk of water intrusion.
To keep your metal roof in better shape to protect against high winds, make sure to periodically do the following:
· Clean the metal panels.
· Keep snow and ice off the roof.
· Repair scratches and rust.
· Check for corrosion.
· Clean the gutters and drains.
· Remove debris.
· Fix loose or separating panel seams.
· Inspect for damage.
· Trim tree branches near the top of your house.
Are Metal Roofs Hurricane Proof?
No roof is 100% hurricane proof. However, as mentioned above, a well-designed metal roof is capable of handling wind speeds higher than what most areas in the hurricane zone experience.
Not only do metal roofs provide fantastic protection against strong winds, but they have various advantages as well.
Metal roofs are:
· Utility saving. Metal roofs reflect heat rather than absorb it, thus reducing cooling costs.
· Energy efficient. Metal roofs are much more sustainable than other roofs. They are created with at least 25 percent recycled material and are 100 percent recyclable themselves. Additionally, the foundation is strong enough to hold solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems.
· Durable with a long life span. A properly installed metal roof will last anywhere from 40 to 70 years and includes a 30–50-year manufacturer’s warranty.
· Low maintenance. Just follow the basic tips given above.
Preventing Wind Damage
To prevent wind damage, regularly inspect the sealant strips on the backs of the shingles. These strips bond with the shingles underneath as the roof gets hot from the sun. If you live in a cool climate or your roof is shaded, your roof may not get warm enough to make a good seal. To combat this, make sure your contractor uses roof cement when installing the shingles. A few spots of cement underneath add protection and increase your roof’s wind resistance.
Since the roof’s ability to seal itself is connected to its dependency on the sun’s heat, regularly install a new asphalt shingle roof in the spring and summer.
CertainTeed
If you’re considering a new roof for your home or looking to add additional wind protection to your current roof, contact the experts at CertainTeed. We are family owned and operated with a reputation for fair pricing and stellar quality.
We are committed to providing excellent customer service, assisting you with insurance claims, and handling all your roofing concerns. Our customer service reps would be happy to provide a free estimate and suggest a roof that will suit your home, needs, and budget.