There are a variety of roofing materials that can be used in the United States, but not all of them hold up well under extreme conditions. If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather, it is important to choose a material that will withstand high winds, rain, and hail. What are the most durable roofing materials available in the United States?
What are Extreme Conditions?
Before going into materials, what exactly are extreme conditions? In the context of roofing, extreme conditions usually refer to areas that experience:
- Hurricanes
- Tornadoes
- High Winds
- Snowstorms
- Extreme Heat or Cold
- Monsoons
If you live in an area that experiences any of these conditions regularly, it is important to choose a roofing material that can withstand them. The last thing you want is for your roof to be blown away or damaged in a storm, leaving your home exposed to the elements.
Best Types of Roofing Materials
Clay and concrete tiles are some of the most durable roofing materials available. They are often used in areas that experience high winds, as they are heavy and less likely to be blown away. They are also fire resistant, which can be an asset in areas prone to wildfires. While these materials are strong in extreme conditions, this doesn’t mean that you can ignore them. After a monsoon, your tiles should be inspected for any damage that may have occurred.
Metal roofing is another durable option, and it comes in a variety of materials including aluminum, steel, and copper. Metal roofs are good at reflecting heat, which can help keep your home cooler in hot climates. They are also fire resistant and great at shedding water and snow. However, metal roofs can be noisy during a rainstorm or when hail is hitting them. If you live in an area with severe weather conditions, make sure to have your metal roof inspected regularly.
Asphalt shingles are the most popular type of roofing material in the United States, and for good reason. They are relatively inexpensive, easy to install, and come in a variety of colors and styles. But how do they fare in extreme weather conditions? Asphalt shingles are made of a fiberglass or paper mat that is coated with asphalt and then covered with ceramic granules. The asphalt provides a waterproof barrier, while the ceramic granules protect the shingles from UV rays.
Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 60 mph, but they can be damaged by hail and flying debris. They are also susceptible to damage from high winds if they are not properly installed. If you live in an area that is prone to severe weather, the first two suggestions are generally better choices.
Repairing or Replacing a Damaged Roof
What happens if your roof is damaged by severe weather? The first thing you should do is call a professional roofing contractor to inspect the damage and give you an estimate for the repairs. If the damage is extensive, you may need to replace the entire roof.
If you have insurance, your policy will likely cover the cost of repairs or replacement. However, you will still need to pay your deductible before the insurance company will start paying. Ultimately, you need a reliable roofing company to visit your property, assess the damage, and create a plan. From here, you can decide whether to repair or replace your roof.
