Best Roofing For Wind-Prone Areas
Many areas in the United States suffer from wind storms. Whether they be hurricanes, tornadoes, or some other wind-related event, they frequently wreak havoc on your property, especially on roofs. The next time you have a new roof put on your house, consider investing in materials that are particularly wind resistant. By doing so, you can protect your home from leaks, even if the shingles are damaged or torn off completely.
Sheathing
You probably do not realize the importance of the first layer of roofing that professionals apply. This substance is called sheathing or undercoating, and when it is lifted up or torn, water can pour into your home, causing serious interior damage. Fortunately, you can apply sheathing in a way that helps keep it adhered to the rafters. Experts recommend using 5/8 inch plywood and 8d ring shank nails placed six inches apart or closer. This technique will help protect your home even if your shingles or tiles fail during a storm.
Clay and Concrete Tiles
Clay tiles are quite heavy, so not all homes can support them. If your home can, they are a good choice for areas prone to windstorms. Used with high quality sheathing and wind clips, your tiles should be able to withstand a hurricane. Concrete tiles are even more durable, sometimes lasting thirty years, so they are another excellent choice.
Slate
Slate roofing offers the same sort of benefits of tile, but it will need to be applied with some roof cement to get the kind of protection that you need. Experts say that this type of roofing requires four nails per slate to make it wind-worthy.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are particularly vulnerable to the wind if they are already curling or otherwise damaged. you can replace them with a new layer of shingles that are made to handle hurricanes and other wind storms. You will need to invest in a those that are classified either G or H to withstand the strongest storms. You will pay more, but you can stick with this more traditional roofing and still protect your roof, if that's what you prefer.
Fall is hurricane season, which makes it a good time to consider the condition of your roof. If you already have loose shingles or your roofing is cracking, you need to replace or repair your roof immediately. If you live in Florida or other areas vulnerable to hurricanes, you may want to invest in wind-resistant roofing (click here for more information).