As residents of the Sunshine State, Floridians know all too well the potential for devastating hurricanes. Making sure your home is well-prepared to withstand such storms is essential, and one of the most crucial aspects of this preparation is having a reliable roof. In this blog post, we’ll explore the types of roofing best suited for withstanding a hurricane in Florida, so that you can make an informed decision about the best option for your home.
Metal Roofs Are the Best Option
When protecting your home from the potentially devastating effects of a hurricane, there is no better choice for roofing than metal. Metal roofs are lightweight, durable, and resistant to wind damage, making them an ideal choice for those living in Florida and other coastal states.
Metal roofs are also incredibly long-lasting and require minimal maintenance. While asphalt shingle roofs can last up to 15 years, metal roofs can last up to 50 years and have a much higher resistance to wind speeds associated with hurricanes. Metal roofs are also less likely to experience punctures due to flying debris and typically have a better ability to deflect strong winds compared to other types of roofing materials.
When choosing a metal roof, be sure to select one that is rated for hurricane-strength winds and has a high rating for impact resistance. You may also want to consider additional features such as a heat-reflective coating or energy-efficient insulation to protect against hurricane conditions.
Overall, metal roofs are the best option for homeowners looking for an effective way to protect their homes from the worst of a hurricane. With proper installation and maintenance, metal roofs are an excellent choice for those living in areas prone to extreme weather conditions.
Tile Roofs Are The Second Best Option
Tile roofs have been a popular roofing option in the Florida region for decades, and there’s a good reason why. Tile roofs are highly resistant to hurricane-force winds, and they can offer solid protection against damage during a storm.
Tile roofs are constructed with tiles made of various materials including concrete and clay, making them very strong and durable. They can withstand wind gusts of up to 150 miles per hour and are often the roofing of choice in regions prone to hurricanes. The individual tiles are held together securely with special clips or mortar and can stand up to strong wind gusts without becoming loose or lifting off the roof.
Tile roofs also provide excellent protection from hail and heavy rain, as their surface is smooth and resists water penetration. In addition, their design allows for increased air circulation underneath the tiles, which helps reduce the risk of leaks. The extra insulation provided by tile roofs also helps keep your home cooler during the hot summer months, saving you money on energy costs.
Overall, tile roofs are an excellent choice for homes in the Florida region that are looking for added protection from hurricane-force winds and other extreme weather conditions. The added strength, durability, and extra protection make them an ideal choice for anyone looking for peace of mind in the event of a major storm, but they don’t offer quite as much protection as metal roofs.
Flat Roofs Are the Least Ideal Option
In general, flat roofs are simply not built to withstand hurricane-force winds. The relatively flat surface creates an area of low pressure that can make them especially vulnerable to damage from flying debris.
Furthermore, since flat roofs are often made of materials that are less durable than metal roofing systems, they can easily be penetrated by rain and wind-blown debris, leading to leaks and structural damage. For these reasons, flat roofs should be avoided when building a hurricane-resistant home in Florida.
If you are in need of a knowledgeable and reliable roofing contractor in Southwest Florida, look no further than ProCraft Exteriors! We have been serving our community for over 17 years and know what is best to protect your home from Florida hurricanes. To get your free roofing estimate, call us here at (239) 970-8116. We are always happy to help!