Are you planning a new home build in an area that sometimes is impacted by a hurricane season. Trying to figure out what the best roof design might be? What about flat roofs?
Are flat roofs good for hurricanes?
Yes, flat roofs are very good roofs for hurricanes, some would say the best. Flat Roofs do not offer the same “give away” that built-up roof designs do during severe weather. When a hurricane moves towards a built-up roof, it forces the air underneath to rush up into the attic and then down into the living area of your house, of course that’s if your roof’s pitch is not too steep.
Since flat roofs do not offer such give away, all the air will remain on top of the roof and will be channeled safely to either one or both sides or to under-buildings and structures nearby.
This allows you to remain in your home during a hurricane.
However, that does not mean that these flat roofs cannot be damaged. Sometimes the wind can catch a flat roof and blow it over, therefore those with flat roofs should be prepared for those wind storms.
Flat roofs are often more difficult to build, they require a different type of roofing material. Flat roof includes “battens” that sit on top of the rafters throughout the entire length of the roofing arrangement.
Flat rooftop designs are generally not as visually appealing as others, but they provide a far safer alternative to your home during a hurricane.
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Why Do Roofs Come Off During Hurricanes?
A roof comes off during a hurricane because there are too many “give-aways” in the structure.
Wind enters the building through these give-aways, and rises up into the residence until it hits an obstacle.
When it hits an obstacle, the air is forced to either rise up into the attic and then out of the roof or to burst out of the house.
The noise that you hear from a hurricane is that of an upstairs room coming down into a downstairs room.
Either scenario will damage your structure and your belongings.
Are There Any Drawbacks To Flat Roofs?
Flat roofs do have a few drawbacks to consider although they are relatively minor compared to their advantages.
And, flat roofs are far from cheap to install.
In most cases, flat roofs will need a professional to install it in a way that will properly protect your roof from wind damage in the event of a hurricane.
Additionally, you should also consider the additional cost of building a completely new home instead of just replacing your existing roof.
What Is The Best Roof Pitch For Hurricanes?
The best roof pitch for hurricanes is 30 degrees. No, the roof pitch is not based on a percentage of incline or slope, rather it is a ratio. A 30 degree roof pitch is closer to being horizontal than being vertical.
Typically, most roofs are designed with an approximate 4/12 pitch which is technically about 20 Degrees.
A 30 degree roof pitch provides the safest design for your home during any hurricane event with strong winds.
What Type Of Roof Is Best For Hurricanes?
Metal roofing. Metal materials have long been used as a medium for roofs because of its durability and its resistance to wind. There is also some type of craftsmanship craftsmanship involved with metal roofs that cannot be found with any other type of roofing.
Metal roofs are more expensive than other options, however they offer very good value as they can last more than 50 years and easily withstand hurricanes without damage.
Are Tile Roofs Better Than Shingles In A Hurricane?
If you can afford it, tile roofs are the best roofs for hurricanes. Tile roofs are constructed with either clay or concrete that is then covered with an extremely durable glaze or sometimes just painted depending on the style of the roof.
Tile roofs offer good protection against snow, ice, and even hail without severely damaging them. Tiles are nice to look at and will require little maintenance over their life span.
Tile roofs can become very expensive to install but they do last for many years after they have been installed.
Are Concrete Roofs Good For Hurricanes?
Yes, concrete roofs are excellent for hurricanes.
Concrete is an extremely durable material that can withstand winds up to three times faster than other roofing materials.
Concrete is also less expensive than tile roofs although it is considerably more expensive than other roofing materials.
Whatever you choose, be sure to ask your roofing contractor about the roof’s ability to withstand hurricane force winds. This can save you time and money in the long run by avoiding possible damage to your home during a hurricane.
Conclusion
Flat roofs are generally very good for hurricanes, although they do require a layer of protection around them to secure them from wind damage.
Regardless of the roof styles you choose, make sure that all of the materials used will resist hurricane force winds. This is the best way to ensure your safety during a hurricane event.