Roofing Materials for Different Climate Conditions

There are many factors that you need to consider when choosing the right roofing material for you. Besides your budget and the design you want, you need to consider the dominant weather patterns in your location. Because it is the main shelter from the elements, your roof needs to withstand the various weather conditions in your area while remaining stable, strong, and long-lasting. So, how do you know which roofing material is needed to protect you and your home? Here are a few tips for roofs in areas with high winds, hail, or extreme heat. 

High Winds

If you live in an extremely windy state, you need to brace your house for high winds. High winds are likely to rip shingles off the roof even when they are in good condition. This can cause further damage to the roof as the inner structure is left exposed to the elements.

The best kind of roofing for high winds would be one that has slopes pitched at 30 degrees. The slopes break the wind, causing less damage to the roof. When correctly installed, fiberglass and clay shingles can handle high winds. However, clay shingles tend to fall off and can be a safety hazard. On the other hand, metal roofing has fewer overlaps, leaving little to no room for wind to get under the roof. It provides the best protection against strong winds.

Hail

If you are planning on building a home in an area that frequently experiences hail damage, you need to brace your roofing for a bad hail storm.

Hail can cause holes in your roof shingles and gutters and can even crack wood shakes. The best roofing option for a location prone to hail storms is rubber roofing. Rubber can withstand high impact caused by hailstones. It simply bounces back to its original shape after impact. However, you need to ensure you have a thick wood deck underneath if your area is prone to hail that is beyond two inches.

Heat

Extreme heat can also cause damage to your roof, causing the roofing materials to contract and expand, thus slowly losing their structure.

The best roofing material for hot climates is metal roofing. It does not retain heat and cools down fast. Moreover, it is cost-efficient because it is a long-lasting material.

For more information about which material is best for your home, contact a roofing installation company near you.

Share