As we are in the hurricane season, there are a few tips that could ensure the roofing in your home or condominium is safe. When a house works as a unit, it stays together. The engineered truss system that supports the roof and ties it into the walls to distribute the wind load should all work together. Truss anchors are important and need to be set into the poured concrete walls.
Metal Roofs – These roofs fare better than any other category of roof when it comes to withstanding hurricane winds. Make sure they are attached correctly, with screws or clips.
Shingle Roofs – These fare the worst in a hurricane, with thousands of shingles flying off the roofs of homes. Shingles become brittle and lose adhesion; they should be replaced about every dozen years. If your shingle roof has been re-roofed on top of your old shingles, be careful. Lots of those top layers flew off in the last hurricane season.
Tile Roofs – Those applied with concrete or adhesives fare better than those that are nailed down or screwed on. All loose tiles can be sealed with a slurry coat of cement and sealed with an elastomeric coating to provide a good measure of hurricane protection. Expect these roofs to last 25 + years before needing replacement.
Flat Roofs – Depends on how many plies make up your flat roof. It’s recommended that you have at least three to four rather than two. A multilayered flat roof should be expected to last 20+ years.
For houses built before Hurricane Andrew (mid-90s), brace all gable and framing with horizontal and vertical beams. Wood sheathing should be behind the stucco of the walls. A caulking gun should be used to apply liquid nails to the roof deck on both sides of the beam.
If possible, it is advisable to install new roofing that is rated to withstand hurricane force winds and Class 5 fire resistance.
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Author : John Morton
Company : Morton Roofing
John Morton is the president of Morton Roofing based in Pompano Beach, Fla.
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