Choosing a Roof for Severe Weather Conditions

What type of roofing materials hold up best to severe weather conditions?  We'll explore the following materials to help answer this question:

1. Asphalt Shingles 
2. Metal Roofing 
3. Clay & Concrete Tile 
4. Slate Roofing 

When it comes to choosing the right roofing material for your project, durability and weather resistance are critical considerations, especially in areas prone to storms like Texas and the southern states. Different roofing and siding materials offer varying levels of protection against high winds, heavy rainfall, hail, and other severe weather events.  

In this blog, we'll focus on roofing and explore the pros and cons of several common roofing materials and how they fare in storms. 

1. Asphalt Shingles

When it comes to roofing materials, asphalt shingles are perhaps the most common choice for homeowners across the United States. Known for their affordability and ease of installation, asphalt shingles are found on roofs of all shapes and sizes. But how do they fare when the winds pick up and the skies darken with storm clouds? In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the pros and cons of asphalt shingles and examine how they stand up against storms. 

Pros of Asphalt Shingles 

• Affordability: Asphalt shingles are widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to other roofing materials, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious homeowners. 
• Ease of Installation: Asphalt shingles are lightweight and easy to install, which can help reduce labor costs and installation time. They are suitable for a wide range of roof slopes and architectural styles. 
• Variety of Styles and Colors: Asphalt shingles come in a variety of styles, colors, and textures to suit different aesthetic preferences and architectural designs. Whether you prefer a traditional three-tab shingle or a more upscale architectural shingle, there's an option for every taste. 
• Decent Wind Resistance: Some varieties of asphalt shingles offer decent wind resistance, with manufacturers producing shingles that can withstand wind speeds of up to 130 mph or more when properly installed. 

Cons of Asphalt Shingles 

• Vulnerability to Hail Damage: Asphalt shingles are prone to damage from hail, especially larger hailstones or hailstorms with high wind speeds. Hail impacts can cause granule loss, cracking, and even punctures in the shingles, leading to leaks and water damage. 
• Limited Lifespan: While asphalt shingles are relatively affordable, they also have a limited lifespan compared to other roofing materials. The average lifespan of asphalt shingles ranges from 15 to 30 years, depending on factors such as climate, maintenance, and quality of installation. Depending on your location during the lifespan of your home you may end up replacing asphalt shingles 2-3 times more often than alternative options on this list. To combat this, some manufacturers are moving towards recycled content in their shingles. 
• Susceptibility to Algae and Moss Growth: Asphalt shingles are susceptible to algae and moss growth, particularly in areas with high humidity or shade. Algae and moss can detract from the appearance of the roof and, if left untreated, may lead to premature deterioration of the shingles. 

Performance Against Storms 

When it comes to storm resistance, asphalt shingles have both strengths and weaknesses. On the one hand, some varieties of asphalt shingles offer decent wind resistance, withstanding wind speeds of up to 130 mph or more when properly installed. Additionally, asphalt shingles are relatively lightweight, which can be an advantage in high-wind situations where heavier roofing materials may be more susceptible to uplift. 

However, asphalt shingles are also prone to damage from hail, which can compromise their integrity and lead to leaks and water damage. Larger hailstones or hailstorms with high wind speeds can cause granule loss, cracking, and even punctures in the shingles, leaving the roof vulnerable to water infiltration. 

While asphalt shingles offer affordability, ease of installation, and some degree of wind resistance, they may not be the best choice for areas prone to severe storms or frequent hailstorms. Homeowners in these areas may want to consider alternative roofing materials with better storm resistance, such as metal roofing, clay or concrete tiles, or synthetic roofing materials. 

Conclusion 

Asphalt shingles are a popular choice for homeowners looking for an affordable and attractive roofing option. While they offer some benefits in terms of affordability, ease of installation, and variety of styles, they also have limitations when it comes to storm resistance, particularly against hail and high winds. 

Ultimately, homeowners should carefully consider their location, climate, and budget when choosing a roofing material. Consulting with a professional roofing contractor can help homeowners make an informed decision and ensure that their roof is prepared to withstand the toughest storms with ease. 

2. Metal Roofing

Metal roofing has gained popularity in recent years for its durability, longevity, and exceptional performance, especially in storm-prone areas. But how does metal roofing fare when the weather turns severe? In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the pros and cons of metal roofing and examine how it stands up against storms. 

Pros of Metal Roofing 

• Durability and Longevity: Metal roofing is known for its exceptional durability and longevity, often lasting 50 years or more with proper maintenance. Metal roofs are resistant to rot, mold, and insect damage, making them an ideal choice for areas prone to storms and severe weather. 
• High Resistance to Wind: Metal roofing is highly resistant to wind damage, withstanding wind speeds above 140 mph when properly installed. The interlocking panels and sturdy construction of metal roofs make them less susceptible to uplift and damage from high winds. 
• Fire Resistance: Metal roofing is fire-resistant by nature, providing an extra layer of protection for homes in wildfire-prone areas. Metal roofs have a Class A fire rating, which is the highest rating available, meaning they are highly resistant to fire spread and penetration. 
• Low Maintenance: Metal roofing requires minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials. Metal roofs are resistant to mold, mildew, and algae growth and do not require regular cleaning or recoating. Occasional inspections and basic maintenance tasks, such as removing debris from gutters, are typically all that's needed to keep a metal roof in top condition. 

Cons of Metal Roofing 

• Initial Cost: While metal roofing offers long-term cost savings through its durability and longevity, the initial cost of materials and installation can be higher than other roofing options, such as asphalt shingles or wood shakes. However, many homeowners view metal roofing as a worthwhile investment due to its superior performance and longevity. 
• Denting from Hail: While metal roofing is highly resistant to most forms of damage, certain panels and thinner gauge (thickness) products can be prone to denting from very large hailstones. However, most metal roofing systems are designed to withstand hail impacts without sustaining significant damage. 

Performance Against Storms 

Metal roofing is widely recognized for its exceptional performance in stormy weather conditions. Its high resistance to wind, fire, and impact makes it an ideal choice for homes and buildings in hurricane-prone coastal areas, tornado-prone regions, and areas prone to severe thunderstorms and hail. 

Interlocking panels and sturdy construction provide excellent resistance to wind uplift and wind-driven rain, reducing the risk of water infiltration and damage to the underlying structure. Additionally, metal roofing's smooth surface sheds water and debris faster and more effectively than other roofing materials, reducing the risk of water pooling and ice dam formation. 

Metal roofing offers unmatched durability, longevity, and storm resistance compared to other roofing materials. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term benefits of metal roofing, including reduced maintenance, energy savings, and superior storm resistance, make it a worthwhile investment for homeowners in storm-prone areas. 

Conclusion 

Metal roofing is a top choice for homeowners looking for a durable and long-lasting roofing option that can withstand the toughest storms with ease. With its high resistance to wind, fire, and impact, metal roofing offers superior protection for homes and buildings in storm-prone areas, making it a smart investment for homeowners looking for peace of mind and long-term value. 

3. Clay & Concrete Tiles

Clay or concrete tiles have long been admired for their timeless beauty, durability, and exceptional performance. But how do these traditional roofing materials fare when the weather takes a turn for the worse? In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the pros and cons of clay or concrete tiles and examine how they stand up against storms. 

Pros of Clay or Concrete Tiles 

• Exceptional Durability: Clay or concrete roofing options are known for their durability and longevity. With proper installation and maintenance, clay or concrete tile roofs can last 50 years or more, making them a long-term investment for homeowners, often second in lifespan only to metal roofing panels. 
• High Resistance to Wind: Clay and concrete tiles are moderately resistant to wind damage, withstanding wind speeds of up to 125 mph or more when properly installed. The weight and interlocking design of clay or concrete tiles make them less susceptible to uplift and damage from high winds. 
• Fire Resistance: Tiles are inherently fire-resistant, providing an extra layer of protection for homes in wildfire-prone areas. Clay or concrete tiles have a Class A fire rating, which is the highest rating available, meaning they are highly resistant to fire spread and penetration. 
• Low Maintenance: Clay or concrete tile roofing requires minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials. Clay or concrete tiles are resistant to rot, mold, and insect damage and do not require regular cleaning or recoating. Occasional inspections and basic maintenance tasks, such as clearing debris from gutters, are typically all that's needed to keep a tile roof in top condition. 

Cons of Clay or Concrete Tiles 

• Heavyweight: Clay or concrete tiles are heavy roofing materials, often requiring additional structural support to bear their weight. The heavyweight of clay or concrete tiles can add stress to the roof structure and increase the cost of installation, especially for older homes or buildings with inadequate support. 
• Installation Complexity: Tile roofing requires specialized installation techniques and experienced professionals to ensure proper alignment and waterproofing. Improper installation can lead to leaks, cracking, and other issues that compromise the integrity of the roof. 

Performance Against Storms 

Clay or concrete tiles are widely recognized for their exceptional performance in stormy weather conditions. Their heavyweight, interlocking design, and inherent strength make them resistant to wind uplift and hail damage from hurricanes and severe thunderstorms. 

Clay or concrete tiles' smooth surface sheds water and debris effectively, reducing the risk of water infiltration and damage to the underlying structure. Additionally, their fire-resistant properties provide added protection for homes in wildfire-prone areas, giving homeowners peace of mind during fire season. 

Tiles offer durability, longevity, and storm resistance and perform on par with top performing materials like metal roofing. While the initial cost and installation complexity may be higher, the long-term benefits of clay or concrete roofing, including reduced maintenance, energy savings, and superior storm resistance, make it a worthwhile investment for many homeowners in storm-prone areas. 

Conclusion 

Clay or concrete tile roofing is another great option for homeowners looking for a durable and long-lasting roofing option that can withstand the toughest storms with ease. With its exceptional durability, high resistance to wind and fire, and curb appeal, tile roofing offers superior protection and value for homeowners looking for peace of mind and long-term performance. 

4. Slate Roofing

Slate roofing has long been revered for its timeless elegance, durability, and exceptional performance. But how does this natural roofing material fare when the weather turns turbulent? In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the pros and cons of slate roofing and examine how it stands up against storms. 

Pros of Slate Roofing 

Unmatched Durability: Slate roofing is renowned for its unparalleled durability and longevity. With proper installation and maintenance, a slate roof can last 100 years or more, making it a long-term investment for homeowners. 

High Resistance to Wind: Slate roofing is highly resistant to wind damage, withstanding wind speeds of up to 130 mph or more when properly installed. The heavyweight and interlocking design of slate tiles make them less susceptible to uplift and damage from high winds. 

Fire Resistance: Slate roofing is inherently fire-resistant, providing an extra layer of protection for homes in wildfire-prone areas. Slate tiles have a Class A fire rating, which is the highest rating available, meaning they are highly resistant to fire spread and penetration. 

Low Maintenance: Slate roofing requires minimal maintenance compared to other roofing materials. Slate tiles are resistant to rot, mold, and insect damage and do not require regular cleaning or recoating. Occasional inspections and basic maintenance tasks, such as clearing debris from gutters, are typically all that's needed to keep a slate roof in top condition. 

Cons of Slate Roofing 

• High Initial Cost: While slate roofing offers long-term cost savings through its durability and longevity, the initial cost of materials and installation can be significantly higher than other roofing options. However, many homeowners view slate roofing as a worthwhile investment due to its superior performance and longevity. 
• Fragility: Slate tiles are fragile and prone to breakage if mishandled during installation or maintenance. Walking on a slate roof can cause tiles to crack or shatter, requiring careful navigation by experienced professionals. 

Performance Against Storms 

Slate roofing is widely recognized for its exceptional performance in stormy weather conditions. Its heavyweight, interlocking design, and inherent strength make it highly resistant to wind uplift and damage from severe storms, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms. 

Slate roofing's smooth surface sheds water and debris effectively, reducing the risk of water infiltration and damage to the underlying structure. Additionally, its fire-resistant properties provide added protection for homes in wildfire-prone areas, giving homeowners peace of mind during fire season. 

In summary, slate roofing offers durability, longevity, and storm resistance compared to most roofing materials. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term benefits of slate roofing, including reduced maintenance, energy savings, and superior storm resistance, make it a growing investment for homeowners in storm-prone areas. 

Conclusion 

Slate roofing is a top choice for homeowners looking for a durable and long-lasting roofing option that can withstand the toughest storms with ease. With its exceptional durability, high resistance to wind and fire, and timeless elegance, slate roofing offers superior protection and value for homeowners looking for peace of mind and long-term performance. 

Choosing a Roofing Material 

When choosing the right roofing material for your project, it's essential to consider its performance in storm-prone areas. While each material has its advantages and disadvantages, metal roofing, clay or concrete tiles, and slate roofing tend to offer superior durability and resistance to storms compared to asphalt shingles and synthetic materials. Ultimately, consulting with a professional roofing contractor and considering your specific location and climate conditions will help you make an informed decision. 

As always, Quality Metals is here to provide expert guidance and support for all your roofing needs. Contact us today to learn more about our high-quality metal roofing materials and how they can withstand the toughest storms with ease.