What Affects Your Asphalt Roof's Risk Of Wind Damage?

Although your asphalt shingle roof is meant to protect your home from the elements, it should still be regularly maintained to stay in good condition. But even a well-built roof can still be vulnerable to unpredictable weather. Wind, for instance, can reach speeds that are enough to cause significant damage. If this is the case and your area was recently hit by a fierce storm, don’t hesitate to get a professional roof inspection as soon as possible.

• Material 
  The material you use determines how strong the roofing system is and how much it can withstand wind forces. Keep in mind that the integrity of your asphalt shingles will only be as good as the quality of your other materials. 

• Type of Shingles 
  Asphalt shingles are classified into different categories that are dependent on their wind resistance. For example, Class D shingles can withstand winds of up to 90 miles per hour (mph); Class F shingles can withstand wind speeds of up to 110 mph.
• Roof Layout 
  Professional roofers understand how the slope of the roof can make a difference in how it can withstand wind damage. Pitched gable roofs that have higher slopes, longer gable lines and wider eave overhangs are more susceptible to wind pressure. Aerodynamic, four-sided hip roofs, on the other hand, are more resistant to wind damage.

• Nailing 
  The shingles should be nailed properly on the deck to prevent them from being lifted by the wind. For example, each nail should have a diameter of at least ⅜ of an inch. Improper nailing leads to a weak roof, which then increases its risk of wind damage.

Wind damage can be easy to spot in most cases, with the telltale signs typically being mangled or missing pieces of flashing, loose or missing shingles, and areas of exposed underlayment where shingles were blown off. A gaping hole caused by a fallen tree branch is also hard to miss and can cause active leaks if temporary repairs aren’t made. But even if your roof looks mostly intact, that doesn’t mean it hasn’t suffered any damage. Have it inspected by a professional as soon as the weather becomes favorable so that you’ll know the full condition of your roofing system.

With Punum Roofing of Houston, Inc., we get the roofing job done with speed and efficiency. Call us at (713) 466-4447, or fill out our contact form to schedule an in-home consultation. Let’s talk about your roofing project today!