3 Reasons Why Metal Is The Best Roof Against Hurricanes

Hurricanes and tropical storms are an inevitable part of living on the coast of Florida. And while you can’t change Mother Nature and her decisions, there are actions you can take to protect your home and prevent significant damage during hurricane season. One of these is to install a metal roof.

It’s not uncommon to see wind-damaged roofs after a major hurricane has ripped through the area. But as one of the most resistant roofing materials available, a metal roofing system can help your home withstand a hurricane. With that in mind, here’s a look at 3 ways metal roofing can protect your home during a hurricane.

1. Wind Uplift Resistance

A house is an obstruction to wind flow and causes a change in air pressure and airflow over the home’s surface. Roof damage is caused by wind uplift when air pressure below the roofing system is greater than above the roof. 

During high winds, the pressure above the roof surface decreases while the air pressure inside the building increases due to air infiltration through openings and cracks. This creates a push-pull force that separates the roofing materials from the roof deck. In the worst-case scenario, the roof deck could also detach from the supporting structure.

Metal roofing is extremely wind resilient and can withstand abuse from high winds without losing durability. Most metal roofs have a wind resistance rating of up to 140mph, making them ideal for hurricane-prone areas. By contrast, standard asphalt shingles can only withstand wind speeds of up to 60 mph.

Metal roofs’ superior wind resistance can be attributed to their design and construction. The overlapping panels interlock on all four sides, leaving little room for hurricane-force winds to penetrate under the materials and cause uplift.

What’s more, most metal roofs are joined together with concealed fasteners, which aren’t exposed to the elements. This decreases the chances of deterioration and failure. The use of hidden clips and screws also provides a better allowance for expansion and contraction without compromising the structural integrity of the roof.

2. Wind-Blown Debris Impact Resistance

In strong wind events such as hurricanes, windborne debris is one of the leading causes of roof damage. Homes with metal roofs can hold against the severe hurricane-force winds and debris. The metal panels have an inherent toughness which allows them to withstand the impact of windborne debris, especially when they have a thicker gauge. 

Many metal roofs have a Class 4 Impact Resistance rating. Assigned by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Class 4 is the highest impact-resistant category. In UL testing, a 2-inch diameter steel ball is dropped from varying heights onto a newly manufactured roof covering. For a metal roofing to earn the title of a Class 4 rating, the panel must not crack, split, break, fracture, tear, or rupture upon impact.

Even in extreme hurricanes, damage to your metal roof will take the form of dents. While a dented roof might be considered unsightly by some homeowners, denting will not cause a roof to leak or fail if the impact is severe enough.

Some metal panels can have a special pebbled coating added to mitigate possible denting.

3. High Durability and Long Service Life

Out of all roofing materials, metal roofs have one of the longest lifespans, even rivaling classic options like tile and slate. If installed correctly, your metal roof will easily shrug off even the most debilitating weather conditions.

The adhesives used to bond shingles and tiles wear down over time in Florida’s intense heat, rain, wind, and strong UV rays. Conversely, metal panels are firmly locked into place and won’t break down as quickly as other materials.

Metal roofs made of aluminum, zinc, and galvanized steel have an expected lifespan of 40-50 years. Those made of copper can remain useful for 100 years or more when properly cared for. The material is available in grooved and flat sheets of varying thicknesses for installation on different architectural styles and roof slopes.

Correct Metal Roofing Installation Matters

While metal roofing beats out conventional roofing materials in many ways, its durability is only as good as the quality of installation. Metal roofs are relatively complex and require a high degree of precision during the installation process. When mistakes are made during installation, your metal roof will lose its weather resilience and durability, leading to a drastically reduced lifespan.

As such, you want to make sure you hire a Florida roofing contractor with specialized skills and experience installing metal roofs.

Elevate Your Home’s Defense Against Hurricanes

Metal is increasingly becoming the roof of choice in Florida. With exceptional wind resistance, impact resistance, fire resistance, low maintenance, and a longer lifespan, your metal roof will protect your home against the region’s harsh storms. While others are picking up shingle fragments after a hurricane, your metal roof will be standing tall and in pristine condition. Alan’s Roofing is your source in Central Florida for metal roofing installed professionally with quality workmanship, attention to detail, and exceptional customer service. Contact us today to schedule a free quote and learn more about adding a metal roof to your home.