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The covering on the top of a home is extremely important when it comes to keeping everyone inside safe and secure from the forces of Mother Nature. Intense heat is debilitating; any rainstorm that develops quickly can produce heavy rain accompanied by strong winds and possibly even tornadoes; and hurricanes are another tremendous force of nature that can wipe out entire communities. All of these different weather elements can have a significant impact on a roof, possibly causing complete and total destruction. Therefore, no matter where a home is situated, whether in the desert Southwest or in any area subject to strong winds, there exists weather that could put any home in great danger. Hurricane Destruction One particular weather element that actually can be addressed ahead of time is the destructive yet usually predictable force of a hurricane. For homes located along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, destructive hurricanes are common and more than likely have already been a part of all residents’ life experiences. Wind-resistant materials are a good and popular way to counteract the fierceness that nature can display on a roof. Asphalt shingles are always an option but when strong winds approach, they can be easily torn and pulled off a structure because they are fastened by the use of nails or roofing cement. Metal materials are extremely resistant to strong winds and in fact have been proven to be the toughest material used in the hurricane-prone state of Florida. Yet, even this type of roofing has its drawbacks. How can this important element of a home be storm-proofed against such violent, storm-driven winds? Repeated Inspections Conducting periodic inspections can probably protect a home from the devastating effect of high winds. These inspections are simply the best way to ensure that the roofing is serving its purpose. With asphalt shingles, always check the structure for damage and make sure that the shingles are not missing or loose. Inspect for other common problems such as rusting or loose bolts and ensure that everything is well-fastened and properly installed. If everything is appropriately secured, it cannot easily be pulled off or blown away by the high winds. Use Screws Instead of Nails In coastal areas, frequent high winds are very common, both on a regular basis from offshore flow and from the storms that frequent this area. Therefore, homes in these locations have more than likely experienced ravaging blasts of air that often pull the nails out of galvanized metal roofing. The alternative is to utilize sheet metal screws designed for this type of material. When using these screws, do not use washers as they will easily rust and destroy the integrity of the structure. Instead use rubber gaskets because they are not easily pulled off and do not leak. Proper Installation and Maintenance Any type of material can withstand the forces of nature if it is properly installed. Ensure that the contractor employed to do the work uses skilled and well qualified help so that the correct preventative action is taken to avert roof destruction caused by strong winds from a devastating hurricane. In hurricane-prone areas, anchoring the roof to the tops of walls is done in order to increase the structure’s resistance to such devastation. There are several methods to strengthen structures and make them resistant to the high winds that accompany severe storms, destructive hurricanes and tornadoes. Strong force, high velocity gusts can easily tear the entire roof off from a house. By conducting periodic inspections, performing regular maintenance and adhering to current building codes, the devastating effects of severe weather conditions can be prevented and the goal of a storm-proofed roof will have been achieved! C. Michale Hunter is an expert in residential and commercial roofing. To find out more about College Station Roofs, go to the main website at: http://www.collegestationroofing.net.
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