Strong Winds Can Damage Your Roof

There have been several studies conducted on the cost of wind damaged roofs to homeowners.  With tornados, hurricanes, and even the occasional wind storm in the United States; homeowner’s often find themselves replacing roofs before their time.  In fact, one report released a few years ago found that over 8 billion dollars was spent from the year 1991 and 1995 on wind and hail damage to roofs.  No matter how great a roof you have on your home, the worse storm can come in at a moment’s notice and strong winds can damage your roof.  The strong winds carry heavy rains that will play against the natural flow of water on roofs.  Many times debris from trees and other foliage can be blown on the roof from strong winds damaging a homeowner’s roof, as well.  As water is blown beneath the shingles or other roofing materials; the inner roof is unprotected- making leaks common for homeowners.  Any cracks or holes that were once not a problem for a homeowner can become a waterfall.

In 1991, Hurricane Hugo, a destructive Category 5 hurricane, that hit Puerto Rico, St. Croix, South Carolina and North Carolina; had devastating effects on homes.  In fact, after much research, the main cause for roof damage during this massive storm was due to wind damage; not hail or water.  After this and other hurricane like-wind events; manufacturers of shingles and other roofing materials decided to look at ways to improve their products wind sustainability.  New products today meet very stringent standards set up by the Underwriters Laboratories and wind resistance set by UL and the American Society for Testing and Materials or the ASTM International.  Although, most of these newer shingles resist breakage and limit the damage to the shingle caused by wind, hail, and heavy rains- they are not full proof, yet.

However, if you live along the coast or in the states that are known to many as tornado alley; you may want to consider a Class 4 rated high impact shingles for your roofing needs.  These shingles are tested and retested using steel balls; if they pass these stringent tests- they can even qualify some homeowner’s for discount insurance coverage.  Products made to withstand strong winds that can often destroy a roof are not cheap.  Be prepared to spend at least 50% more on these types of shingles than traditional shingles.  Furthermore, unlike conventional shingles that only require a 3-nail pattern; these will require a 6-nail pattern.  So don’t be surprised if labor costs are higher for installation.  Most of these types of shingles have long standing warranties, though.  Usual lifespan for these type of shingles is anywhere from 30 to 50 years.  As well, many manufacturers even offer wind resistance warranties for up to 10 years on their products.

Many states, like Texas, have Windstorm building codes that require homeowner’s to use certain type of wind and hail resistant roofing products.  Homes must meet guidelines set aside to withstand strong winds of 110 miles per hour or higher.  As well, Texas homeowner’s are required to use a minimum of No. 15 underlayment felt.  Installation and even the nails used on these roofs must meet Windstorm building standards.  If you live in a state prone to strong winds that may damage your roof; you probably should check with your zoning commission, a professional roofing association in your area, or a government agency on what roofing materials are required or recommended for use in your hometown.