Are Metal Roofs Better For Hurricanes On The Gulf Coast?

Living on the Gulf Coast area comes with its share of challenges, especially when it comes to weathering the storm—literally. Hurricane season is almost here, and this period can put your home’s durability to the test, especially your roofing system. 

This makes the choice of a roofing material a critical decision. As you probably know, there are many roofing options available on the market. But not all of them can fare well as far as hurricanes are concerned. Today, we will take into consideration a popular roofing material: metal. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the advantages of opting for metal roofs in the face of hurricanes on the Gulf Coast. So let’s find out if metal roofs are better for hurricanes or if it’s just a myth. 

How Metal Roofs Can Help Improve The Protection Of Your Home

Hurricanes, with ferocious winds and heavy rains, pose a significant threat to your home. But when you install a good quality metal roof, you can rest assured your home is well protected. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why: 

One of the Most Durable Roofing Materials

When it comes to standing strong against harsh weather conditions, metal roofs take the lead. As you know, metals that are used to create roofing panels, such as steel, aluminum, and copper, are some of the strongest materials available. So naturally, you will get the same strength in your roofing system. Their tough structure and interlocking panels create a strong barrier against high winds, heavy rain, and hail. 

Here are some of the features of metal roofs:

• Most metal roofs are sturdy and can withstand harsh weather conditions with ease
• Metal roofs are fire and pest-resistant
• Even in places surrounded by water, metal roofs won’t rust or corrode
• Unlike traditional roofing materials, metal doesn’t warp, crack, or absorb moisture, ensuring your home remains a fortress during the storm.

Lightweight 

You might think that strength comes with extra weight, but not in the case for metal roofs. Their lightweight nature not only makes installation easier for the contractor but also minimizes the structural load on your home. For example, aluminum metal roofing systems are very popular for their light yet strong nature. 

This characteristic is a game-changer, especially in regions prone to hurricanes, where excess weight can be a liability. Structures with added weight are more susceptible to the destructive forces of these winds, increasing the likelihood of damage or even collapse.

These reasons make metal roofing hurricane-proof, but they are not the only advantages of this material. Let’s delve a bit deeper. 

Long-Term Savings

Investing in a metal roof is not just a choice for storm protection, it’s a good financial move too. While the initial cost might be higher than other roofing materials, the longevity and low maintenance requirements make metal roofs a cost-effective choice in the long run. 

You don’t need to perform frequent repairs, and it will be decades before you will need to replace your roof, as a metal roof will weather many storms and still stand strong.

Eco-Friendly Advantage

Choosing a metal roof isn’t just about safeguarding your home, it’s a step towards a greener future. Metal roofing materials are often recyclable, reducing the environmental impact associated with roof replacements. This eco-friendly approach aligns with the growing trend of sustainable living and responsible construction practices.

Also Read: 5 Metal Roofing Trends In Jackson, MS

As we have seen, metal is a good option for your roof replacement project if you reside in a tornado or hurricane-prone area. But what about other roofing materials? Let’s find out!

Weathering the Storm: Metal vs. Traditional Materials

Let’s compare metal roofs against other materials in a few scenarios: 

Wind-Resistance

Metal Roofs:

• Most interlocking metal panel systems can withstand winds of up to 140 mph, so your home will be protected.
• The interlocking panels provide a seamless defense against hurricane-force gusts.

Traditional Shingles:

• Asphalt shingles, on the other hand, are more vulnerable to lifting and peeling under high winds.
• Since they are prone to damage, this may lead to more frequent leaks. 

Waterproof Armor

Metal Roofs:

• Metals fare well against rain and moisture.
• This quality minimizes the risk of water damage, a common aftermath of hurricanes. 
• If you go for a standing seam metal roof, you get even better protection as these have hidden fastener systems. The seams are hidden, so there is less chance of leaks.

Traditional Shingles:

• Shingles are more susceptible to water absorption. This can lead to warping and deterioration.
• There is an increased likelihood of leaks during the heavy rainfall that often comes with a hurricane. 

When A Metal Roof May Not Protect Your Home During A Hurricane

While metal roofs are generally considered durable and resistant to various weather conditions, there are certain circumstances in which they may not provide you with complete protection. 

One of the most common reasons for this is improper roof installation. If a roof is not installed correctly, it may not be able to withstand the intense wind and rain associated with hurricanes. Poor installation can lead to vulnerabilities, such as loose panels, inadequate fastening, or weak flashing, which can compromise the roof’s ability to stay in place during a storm. That is why you need to make sure that you hire a professional roofing contractor for the job. 

Best Metal Roof Installation Services on the Gulf Coast

As we can see, metal roofs emerge as a top choice when we talk about facing the harsh climate of Mississippi, Alabama, or other states in the Gulf Coast region. They offer durability, strength, and have great long-term value. 

As you do your research into the range of roofing material options available, consider that metal not only stands up to the regular weather conditions, but also severe situations such as hurricanes. 

At Renova Roofing & Construction, we offer the best metal roofing services. We make sure that each and every panel is installed correctly, leaving no chance of errors. Contact us today at (601) 647-3433 to get started on your metal roof installation project.