Will Metal Roofing Protect My Home In a Storm?
Post-storm damage is many a homeowner’s worst nightmare. But if you believe it’s inevitable, you may want to think again. The type of roof you have can actually make a big difference in how well your home holds up to hail, wind, and even wildfires or hurricanes. If you’re exploring the various roofing materials available to you to determine which will provide superior storm protection, you should learn a bit more about why metal roofing may be the best choice.
It’s long-lasting and eco-friendly
There are actually many reasons why metal roofing is an excellent option for your home. One major benefit is that it’s more cost-effective over time, as it lasts far longer than other kinds of roofs. While asphalt shingles will require more maintenance and reproofing every 10 to 20 years, metal roofs can last a lifetime.
That’s because metal roofs are a more durable material than asphalt and other kinds of roofing. Whereas shingles can crack or break off even through the normal course of events, metal roofing systems won’t sustain this kind of damage. That translates into fewer calls to your metal roofing company for repairs (and therefore, a considerable financial savings) and less frustration for you.
In addition, metal roofing has become a go-to for those concerned with the environment. Not only do metal roofs contain a considerable amount of recycled materials, but they can also be recycled after they’re finally finished protecting your home. They’ll also help keep your home more comfortable, which saves energy and money on your utility bills.
It provides the best protection against storms
Those plentiful benefits are all well and good, but they may not mean as much to you as how much protection these systems can provide in natural disasters and other storms. There’s good news there, too. The demand for metal roofing has actually increased significantly in recent years because of how much protection it provides against major weather events.
Fire: Metal roofing has a Class A fire rating, which means it has the best fire protection available. In order to receive such a rating, the material has to withstand flames for up to four hours and be resistant to tests that involve 15 different cycles of gas flames. FEMA suggests that asphalt shingles are less fire resistant than metal roofing and that homeowners in areas prone to wildfires should consider switching to metal.
Wind: As long as the metal roofing is properly installed, there’s evidence to suggest that it’s superior to materials like asphalt shingles and wood shake. FEMA cites that some buildings with metal roofing remained intact during Hurricane Andrew’s 170-mile-per-hour winds. Technically, metal roofing has a 140-mile-per-hour wind rating. That means that on windy days or even during a hurricane, your home will have a much better chance of being protected.
Snow and Hail: You might assume that metal roofing is no match for a blizzard, but you’d be wrong! This material actually sheds snow quickly, meaning that roof buildup is less likely. When you don’t have to worry about your roof caving in, you’ll have better peace of mind (and maybe even fewer ice dams). And while some homeowners are concerned about damage from hail, the truth is that metal roofs aren’t likely to sustain any dents from these storms. While asphalt shingles can crack or blow off in situations like these, the metal roof remains intact and continues to protect your home. Even if some damage does occur, it won’t affect the integrity of your roof.
If you’ve been wondering why metal roofing is the top choice for countless homeowners, there are all kinds of reasons. From sustainability to longevity, metal roofing ticks just about every box. But when you need a roofing system that offers stellar protection against all kinds of storms, it’s clear why metal roofing wins out. To learn more about our services and how they can protect your home and your family, contact us today.
