Your roof is an often underappreciated part of the house, providing the most protection from the elements throughout the year. While they last a long time under normal circumstances, they will eventually need replacing, requiring you to consider a wide variety of options. One of the factors to consider is how well the roofing material will stand up against wind. This guide will discuss the two primary ways wind affects a roof, how different roofing materials stand up against both, and some tips for choosing the best roof for your home.
Wind and Uplift
The way that most people think of wind impacting a roof is lifting part of the roofing system and blowing it off, like you see in videos when severe storms like tornadoes blow through. As the wind blows, it can get under the roofing material and lift it, especially during direct line winds. The way the roof is secured to the deck will determine how much stress it can take during high wind events, so it’s not just the outer roofing materials that you should consider, but the entire roofing system.
Driving Damage of Wind
Part of how a roof is rated is its impact resistance, measured in classes with Class 1 being the lowest and Class 4 being the most impact-resistant. Wind drives debris from storms onto roofs, including not only debris picked up from the ground but also natural debris like hail or ice. It’s important to choose a material that’ll hold up during some of the strong storms that affect central Indiana.
How Different Roofing Materials Hold Up to Wind
Now that we’ve explored how wind can damage a roof by both lifting it and the impact of driving debris, let’s look at roofing materials. Each is rated for both impact resistance and wind uplift tolerance. Some may be stronger in one area but not as good in another area, so be sure to dig deeply into your options.
Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles are the most common residential roofing and some of the most versatile in terms of design and color options available. These typically come in a flat three-tab style or the architectural style that adds more depth. The lower-end three-tab shingles may have a wind rating of up to about 60 mph and an impact rating of up to Class 3. Higher-end architectural shingles can have wind ratings up to 130 mph and up to a Class 4 impact rating.
Metal Roof
Metal roofs come in two options, the standing seam option that is common on commercial buildings, and metal shingles or shakes. Depending on the system, a metal roof may hold up against sustained winds of up to 120 mph and gusts of up to 200 mph. Many metal roofs have a Class 4 impact rating. The drawback here is that they are more expensive than asphalt shingles and may not look as warm.
Wood Shingles/Shakes
Some property owners prefer the look of wood shingles or shakes. Some estimates suggest wood shingles may survive winds of up to 175 mph and wood shakes may take winds up to 245 mph, depending on the type of wood and system. Depending on the type of wood and system used, a wood roof may have Class 3 or Class 4 impact resistance. Wood roofs tend to be one of the most expensive roofing options available.
Tiles
Roofing tiles are available in a variety of materials, including slate, clay, concrete, composite, and even specialty solar panels. Concrete and clay roofs have wind ratings up to about 125 mph, slate roofs up to 150 mph, and composite up to 110 mph. Most tile roofing systems have an impact rating of Class 3 or Class 4. Tiles tend to be more expensive than most other roofing systems but have a higher durability to go with it.
Choosing the Right Roof for Your Home
As you consider your various roofing options, start by looking at restrictions like HOA rules. Not all communities are open to options other than asphalt shingle roofs. Once you know what options are acceptable in your area, balance your aesthetic goals with cost and durability. Your roof’s construction also impacts what choices are good for your home. A roof that’s too steeply pitched or too flat will affect the options for both managing warm weather wind and winter snow and wind events.
Property owners around Morgantown trust the more than 25 years of experience Taylor Made Roofing & Construction, Inc. has in helping cut through the noise of roofing options and finding the best one for each home. Our team proudly offers residential and commercial installation, inspections, repair, roofing maintenance, and replacement. Call to schedule a consultation with one of our roofing experts to find the best roofing option for your home.
