Ritco Group, Inc.

Unpredictable weather can wreak havoc on your roof. Strong winds, in particular, can dislodge shingles or peel away part of the metal roof panels. For this reason, many people wonder about the susceptibility of their roofs to this specific weather occurrence. Find out why some homeowners are more likely to deal with roof wind damage than others in this post by the new construction and roofing professionals at Ritco Group, Inc.

Roof Structure

Any roof can withstand wind damage if it has a good structural foundation. For instance, roofs with multiple slopes, such as hip roofs, are more stable and better at dealing with high winds because they can distribute the force of the wind across a greater surface area.

Unfortunately, roofs with only two slopes, like gables, are much more susceptible to wind damage. Their vertical slant directs wind to create enough lift to peel off the entire roof from houses, especially in severe wind storms or hurricanes.

Construction

The level of new construction can make a significant difference in roof performance during strong winds. This involves following best practices for roof installation, including premium materials, adequate fasteners and increased fastening patterns, solid seams and proper roof edge and perimeters.

• Roofing Material Quality. The type and quality of roofing material also impact the resistance to wind damage. For example, metal roofing and asphalt shingles are known for their strength and durability. In contrast, poorly installed or low-quality materials are more likely to be damaged by high winds.
• Structural Security. Moreover, clips and straps used to secure the roof to the walls add significantly to the roof’s overall wind resistance. Without these, even a minor wind event could uplift the whole roof.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance work plays a vital role in the rigidity and stability of roofs against heavy winds. Reputable local roofing companies will always check for loose or missing shingles, rusted or failed fasteners and other signs of wear and tear. If a roof is not regularly inspected and maintained, minor issues can evolve into significant problems when winds emerge.

The Age of the Roof

The age of a roof can significantly affect its ability to withstand wind pressures. As roofs age, materials deteriorate and their ability to cope with external forces weakens. This is especially true for roofs with shingle or tile materials. Older roofs may experience issues like curling, buckling and loss of granules, reducing their wind resistance capabilities.

Aerodynamic Design

Aerodynamic roof shapes and designs reduce wind forces on the roof structure, making them less susceptible to wind-induced damage. An aerodynamic roof has a streamlined shape that allows wind to pass over the structure rather than pushing against it, reducing the wind’s impact and distributing the pressure evenly across the roof. A roofing new construction service can help you find the best aerodynamic design for your property.

Installation Method

Even the most durable roofing material is vulnerable to wind if not installed correctly. How roofing materials are attached to the roof deck and how these materials interlock and overlap can directly impact the roof’s ability to withstand high winds. For instance, stapled shingles are less wind-resistant than nailed ones; overlapping tiles are typically more wind-resistant than tiles butted together.

Geographical Location

The geographical location of a house also influences the likelihood of wind damage. Houses in coastal areas, flat landscapes or on the leeward slopes of hills (where wind speeds are higher) are typically more prone to wind damage. Local roofing companies will always consider these geographical factors to mitigate wind damage effectively.

Innovation and Technology

With advances in roofing technology, newer materials and more effective installation methods are emerging. Some high-tech roofing materials are designed explicitly for wind resistance. For example, rubber roofing is durable and flexible, making it highly resistant to wind damage.

Additionally, advanced roof fasteners, adhesives and innovative roofing new construction techniques can decrease the chances of wind uplift and subsequent damage. Modern interlocking shingles, for example, can form a single continuous surface that substantially reduces points of weakness where the wind could penetrate.

Understanding Wind Damage

Wind damage to a roof can be complex and varied, occurring from sustained high winds and gusts.

Forces on the Roof

Roofs are subjected to three primary types of wind forces:

• Uplift Forces – The upward force exerted on the roof when the wind goes over it. This can cause shingles or tiles to lift and, in extreme cases, rip off entirely.
• Shear Forces – These forces are parallel to the surface of the roof. They can lead to wear and tear over time and, in heavy winds, can also lead to roof elements being dislodged or damaged.
• Impact Forces – These occur when debris is thrown against the roof by the wind. The impact can cause structural damage or penetrate the roof, causing leaks.

Types of Wind Damage

Wind damage on roofs often falls into a few primary categories:

• Entire Roof Blow-off – This is the most drastic form of wind damage. Here, the entire roof structure or large sections are torn off by high wind speeds.
• Shingle or Tile Damage – This includes missing, split, loosened, cracked or lifted shingles or tiles.
• Moisture Damage – High winds can drive rain, snow or hail under the protective layers on the roof, leading to moisture damage or leaks inside the house.
• Flashing Damage – Flashings are metal pieces used to prevent water seepage. Wind can loosen or rip off these pieces, leading to vulnerabilities in the roof’s protection.
• Gutter Damage – Wind can twist and rip off unsecured gutters, leading to water drainage issues.

Now that you have an insightful understanding of how some roofs are less prone to wind damage than others, you’re in a better position to invest wisely in your home’s future. If you need a reliable local roofing company in Columbia, Franklin and Brentwood, TN, get ahead of the next storm season by speaking with the experts at Ritco Group, Inc. about your roofing needs. Dial (931) 381-0175 or fill out our contact form for expert advice on wind-resistant roofing.