21 Nov Hanging On Through The Hurricane: Why Metal Is A Roofing Safe Bet

“Whether it’s a catastrophic hurricane or a powerful tropical depression, wind gusts, flying debris, and torrential downpours can cause significant damage to your home,” according to Owens Corning. “Roofs are especially vulnerable, due to their exposed location and large surface area.”

Thus, for states prone to an annual battering by virtue of the hurricane season, durable roofing is a must.

And when strength is a priority, there’s one roofing material you can always rely on: metal.

Protection Against Precipitation

Not only is metal naturally more rain-resistant than other traditional roofing materials, but “when installed with solid sheathing, metal roofing can actually reduce noise from hail, rain, and other bad weather,” according to RWC Building Products.

Moreover, “metal roofs will not spark and ignite into flames during a wildfire or lightning strike,” State Farm reports. In other words, metal roofing is a safer option in the wake of the frequent lightning strikes that one can expect in the midst of a tropical system or hurricane.

Additionally, hail is not an uncommon occurrence during a Florida storm, regardless of whether or not it is of hurricane strength. Thankfully, most metal roofing materials are also impact-resistant, thereby lasting longer and retaining less extensive damage in comparison to asphalt shingles or clay tiles.

Blown Away By Metal’s Might

Hurricanes are not only known for but defined by their wind strength, thereby posing a significant threat to the parts of your home that remain directly exposed to it… like your roof. However, if you’re searching for a material that can withstand hazardous wind speeds, you can rely on metal.

“Experience has shown that new metal roofs properly installed tend to survive high winds quite well,” the Florida Division of Emergency Management affirms.

As a matter of fact, some metal roofing materials are rated to withstand wind speeds of up to 140 miles per hour — the likes of which is characteristic of Category 4 major hurricanes, according to the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale.

Strengthening Before The Storm

When all is said and done, the point we’re making is simple: Metal roofs are absolutely an adequate choice for homeowners looking to brave annual storms. However, you can still optimize your roof further for the sake of both prevention and protection.

“Your roof is your first line of defense in a high wind event,” according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). “Install roof strappings to anchor the roof framing to the wall framings so the wind can’t lift your roof off your house.”

Homeowners should also invest in routine maintenance of their roof, including professional inspections that identify potential defects before they are exacerbated by inclement weather.

And if you’re not sure who to call, we’ve got you covered here at Universal Roof & Contracting!

Not only do we offer FREE inspections and the industry’s best warranty, but our expert team is both skilled and equipped to help you repair, replace, or reimagine your metal roof. To learn more, contact us today by calling 855-ROOF-HELP! We look forward to helping you strengthen your forever roof.