Creating A Storm-proof Roof
The increased prevalence of severe weather patterns has made it essential to protect roofs against hurricane level storms in areas that have not traditionally been at risk. Superstorm Sandy in 2012 devastated areas of the Northeast, and it is estimated that 95 percent of insurance claims included roofing damage. The increase in the number and severity of tornadoes in the Midwest can also bring hurricane-strength winds to areas that previously were not at risk. A professional Ocean County roofing specialists can assess the strength of a roof, identify any potential risks and take care of any construction or repair needed.
The main risk of high winds is shingle uplift, which can remove or tear shingles. Besides the damage to the roof itself, this can let water into the house, damage the contents and lead to the growth of mold and mildew. The best prevention, is to make sure that the shingles are fastened down as securely as possible. Six nailed shingles are better than four, and staples are the least effective. Fiberglass-based asphalt shingles are more robust than organic shingles. A re-roofed layer of newer shingles over old poses the greatest risk of all.
The relatively simple task of making sure that shingles are adequately secured with adhesive is one of the easiest and most cost-effective things anyone can do to prevent damage from high winds.
Homeowners can do it themselves, but it is better to get the professionals in to apply roofing adhesive where necessary as they can check for other damage and suggest preventative measures at the same time.
The construction of the house plays the major role in catastrophic roof failures. Roofing secured with tie downs and straps or brackets will stand up to hurricane-force winds considerably better than one constructed with rafters toe-nailed to the top plates of the walls. Unfortunately, despite the increased severe weather in recent years, building codes in many areas at risk have not been updated to require the more robust construction, and older homes are particularly vulnerable. Homeowners should consider updating older roofs with new and improved materials.
Whether someone has an older home or is constructing a new one, taking steps to prevent damage from severe weather is now essential in most areas of the country, not just the Southeastern and Gulf states. Even if a home and its roof are older, a professional roofer can offer a number of suggestions for almost any situation, with options for most budgets. Any of the roofing contractors from Fortified Roofing of Ocean County can answer your questions about skylights or gutters.
Roofing term from the contractors of Fortified Roofing, Ocean County:
Uplift
During a hurricane, tornado or blizzard, wind flowing over the roof of a house creates a lifting effect. This is the exact same principle as the wind over an airplane’s wings causing it to fly, and is known as uplift. Uplift can affect the entire roof structure.
Ocean County roofing contractors from Fortified Roofing answer a question:
How does re-roofing a house increase its storm risk?
When new shingles are laid over old ones, the bond is not going to be as strong as if the shingles were attached directly to an underlayment. Even if the roofer uses six nails per shingle and the best roofing adhesive, the lower level of shingles is not as secure as a purpose-made roofing base.
View All Articles
Ask A Question
If you would like to ask a question regarding roofers, a new roof installation, roof leak repairs, skylight options or gutters and downspouts please contact Fortified Roofing today!
Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars based on 8 customer reviews.
Oh My! People say such nice things!
