03 Oct What is the Highest Wind Rated Roofing Shingle?

When it comes to choosing the right roofing material for your home, durability is a top priority—especially here in Florida, where we are prone to the high winds and heavy rains that tropical storms and hurricanes deposit on us each year. A common question we get from homeowners is, “What is the highest wind-rated roofing shingle?” The answer can make a big difference in protecting your property from the elements. In our blog this month, we’ll explore the best wind-rated roofing shingles on the market and why they are essential for your home’s protection.

Why Wind Ratings Matter

Roof shingles are the first line of defense against harsh weather conditions, and their wind rating is crucial. The wind rating of a shingle refers to the maximum wind speed the shingle can withstand without being damaged or lifted. If you live in a region that frequently experiences strong winds or storms, investing in shingles with a high wind rating can save you from costly repairs or roof replacement down the line.

Shingles are tested based on industry standards, such as the ASTM D3161 or ASTM D7158, to determine their wind resistance. These standards ensure shingles can withstand the pressures of wind speeds that are common in high-wind areas.

What is the Highest Wind Rated Roofing Shingle?

Many roofing manufacturers now produce high-performance shingles designed to endure extreme wind conditions. Here are some of the top-rated options:

1. GAF Timberline® HDZ™ Shingles
   • Wind Rating: Unlimited wind speed protection with a 15-year limited wind warranty
   • Overview: GAF’s Timberline HDZ shingles feature the proprietary LayerLock™ technology and an advanced nail-strip system that enhances durability. These shingles have passed the ASTM D7158 Class H and ASTM D3161 Class F wind resistance tests, offering protection from winds exceeding 150 mph.
2. CertainTeed® Landmark® Shingles
   • Wind Rating: Up to 130 mph with standard installation, or up to 150 mph with enhanced installation
   • Overview: CertainTeed Landmark shingles are known for their quality and high-performance design. With their dual-layer design, they provide exceptional protection against high winds. This product line also offers a lifetime limited warranty and a wind warranty for peace of mind.
3. Owens Corning® Duration® Shingles
   • Wind Rating: Up to 130 mph
   • Overview: Owens Corning Duration shingles utilize the SureNail® technology, which creates a strong bond that resists wind uplift. This makes them a popular choice for homes in regions with severe weather. They come with a limited lifetime warranty and a wind-resistance warranty, offering reliable protection in storm-prone areas.
4. IKO Nordic™ Shingles
   • Wind Rating: Up to 130 mph with standard installation, up to 150 mph with additional fastening
   • Overview: IKO Nordic shingles are built for extreme weather, and feature reinforced nailing strips for superior wind performance. Their high-strength construction ensures that they stay in place even in winds exceeding 130 mph.

Factors That Impact Wind Performance

Several factors affect the wind performance of your roofing shingles, beyond just their wind rating. Here are key aspects to consider:

1. Installation: Even the highest wind-rated shingles need to be properly installed to perform as intended. Improper installation can reduce the wind resistance of your shingles, making them more prone to damage.
2. Roof Design: Complex roof designs with valleys, ridges, and peaks are more vulnerable to wind damage. The shape of your roof can create pressure points where wind can easily lift shingles.
3. Underlayment: A high-quality underlayment helps protect your roof from water infiltration if shingles are compromised during a storm. A durable underlayment complements high wind-rated shingles for maximum protection.
4. Nailing and Fastening: The number and placement of nails or fasteners are critical to ensuring your shingles stay in place. Many high wind-rated shingles come with advanced nailing features that improve their resistance to uplift.

Choosing the Right Shingle for Your Home

Here in Florida, we live in a region that experiences tropical storms and hurricanes annually, so selecting shingles with the highest wind rating is essential for protecting your home. GAF Timberline HDZ, CertainTeed Landmark, Owens Corning Duration, and IKO Nordic shingles are some of the best options on the market. These shingles are designed to provide maximum durability and performance under extreme wind conditions, helping you avoid costly repairs and keep your home safe.

Remember, proper installation and roof maintenance are key to ensuring your shingles perform to their full potential. When you are ready to install wind-resistant shingles, reach out to us online or call 855-ROOF-HELP for a free estimate. By investing in high wind-rated roofing shingles, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is protected, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way.