When you live in a storm-prone area, you need to ensure your roof is prepared. Huber & Associates has the experience, knowledge and expertise to make sure your roof can stand up to even the strongest winds.

Read on to discover a few of the best roofing materials for withstanding storm damage.

Construction Considerations for Homeowners in Hurricane-Prone Regions

Certain roof types stand up better to hurricanes and high winds, according to a researcher at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT).

Dr. Rima Taher — a civil engineer and special lecturer for the School of Architecture at NJIT — has spent two years examining the best construction methods and materials needed to withstand hurricanes and extreme wind events.

Based on this work, Taher reached the following conclusions for home and business owners in hurricane-prone regions:

• Roofs with multiple slopes perform better in high-wind climates.

• Wind forces on a roof are uplift forces, so roofs are often blown off during a hurricane. Therefore, connecting roofs to walls is imperative.

• When designing a hurricane-resistant roof, the overhang of the roof should be limited to 20" in length.

Hurricane Roof Materials

If you live in an area known for high winds, it is strongly recommended that you find a roofing material that provides adequate hurricane protection. The following make excellent hurricane roof materials:

1. Copper Metal Roofing

Copper Metal has been featured on roofs for centuries. It stands out as one of the best materials for hurricane protection due to its formability, durability and aesthetically pleasing results.

A copper roof can last up between 50 to 75 years, and can be recycled after removal. A copper roof is generally considered the best option for hurricane resistance because:

• They require the least amount of maintenance compared to other roofing materials.

• Copper roofs are incredibly fire-resistant and durable.

• They are one of the best roofing systems for energy efficiency.

• Metal roofing systems can also protect your business or home against other extreme weather like thunderstorms and hailstorms.

3. Slate Roofing

 Slate is a layered rock that can be cut to size to create thin slabs of stone. Slate is an eco-friendly roofing material that can resist winds up to 110 mph.

Slate roofing is fire-resistant and waterproof, and it can last for hundreds of years with very little maintenance. Due to the rigidity of slate tiles, it's tough for high winds to damage the surface underneath.

4. Clay Tile Roofing

Clay tile roofing systems require little to no maintenance to look great year-round. Clay tiles represent some of the best materials for withstanding storm damage and they are known for blocking heat from the sun.

The inherent design of clay tiles is great for windy climates — it helps keep the roof cooler and allows air to circulate between the tiles. When clay tiles are installed correctly, they resist high winds.

Let Huber & Associates Install a Beautiful Roof That Lasts

Our team of restoration and historical roofing experts at Huber & Associates ensures every roofing project following a hurricane or high-wind storm exceeds your expectations.

Our 40 years of experience building custom roofs has given us the edge in creating solutions that last. Whether you're a homeowner, architect or general contractor, you can count on Huber & Associates to comply with unique local codes — such as Class A fire requirements and hurricane wind zones — no matter your location.

We install and repair roofs with award-winning results for national park buildings, museums, university buildings, government buildings, historical properties and large private residences.

Contact Us to Learn More About the Best Roof Materials for Hurricane Protection

If you live in a windy climate, know that some roofing materials fare better than others. If you would like to learn more about the best roofing materials for withstanding storm damage, contact Huber & Associates today.