Storm-Proof Your Home: Advanced Roofing Solutions for Austin’s Weather

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Storm-Proof Your Home: Advanced Roofing Solutions for Austin’s Weather

Austin has unpredictable weather. An arctic blast just came through, and we all know about the hail storms in the spring and summer. High winds, hail, and ice damming can all take a toll on your roof and cause serious damage. It’s important to have the right roofing solutions for these unpredictable and occasionally extreme weather events.

There are several ways to “storm-proof” your roof. For instance, roof installation can make a major difference. A storm chaser can sell you a poorly installed roof. A damaged roof will leave you holding the bag. Choosing a reliable roofing company with a reputation in your area is vital. Additionally, the roofing material you choose will make a vast impact. Some materials withstand more impact than others. Do your research before investing in a new roof and be sure to install the latest roofing technology. As roofing materials evolve, certain systems have advanced storm protection technologies. Prepare your home early for storms by starting with a strong and properly installed roof.

Understanding Austin’s Weather Challenges for Roofing Solutions

Austin belongs to the humid subtropical climate under the Koppen Climate Classification. This climate means that we typically have long hot summers, and short and mild winters, with warm spring and fall transitional periods. Hail storms are common in the late spring and summer. According to Interactive Hail Maps, the Austin area has had 107 reports of hail on the ground, and severe weather warnings at least 83 times last year. Major summer storms tend to bring hail and high winds. While Austin winters are generally mild, in the past few years we’ve had severe freezes that have caused power outages and extensive wind and ice damage to homes. Through climate change, Austin is experiencing unique and unpredictable winter weather events more often.

Hail causes severe damage to roofs. It will cause erosion on shingles, dents on metal roofings, and cracks on tiles. All of this leads to potential water leaks and roof rot. Shingles and other roofing materials can rip off from high wind. This leaves your home unprotected. Recent freezes have caused ice damming on many Austin roofs that can lead to extensive damage outside and inside the home.

Advanced Roofing Materials for Storm Protection

Various roofing materials are ideal for storm-proofing your home. Every roofing material has different pros and cons, and some are more resistant than others.

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is the top choice for prevention against storm and hail damage. Metal roofs are extremely wind-resistant and can withstand high winds without losing durability. Most metal roofs have a wind resistance rating of up to 140mph. In contrast, shingle roofs can withstand winds of up to 60mph. Metal roofs also have a high level of impact resistance against hail and debris. Homeowners in areas known for hurricanes often choose metal roofs for this reason. However, this makes it an excellent choice for Austin as well with its common hail storms. Regardless of weather, metal roofs have a long service life and can last up to 40-50 years.

Impact-Resistant Shingles

It’s worth it to look into impact-resistant shingles for areas known for hail storms, such as Austin. These types of shingles meet the requirements of the UL 2218 Class 4 impact test. A UL 2218 Class 4 impact-resistant shingle has to pass a certain assessment to qualify. A 2-inch steel ball drops on the shingle twice at a 20-foot height. A passed shingle will show no ruptures or cracks. These shingles protect your home, and can also lower your insurance. Additionally, like a metal roof, impact-resistant shingles can add to your home’s value. At Wilson Roofing, we offer impact-resistant shingles through GAF.

Modified Bitumen for Flat Roofs

Flat commercial roofing tends to use modified bitumen. Combine asphalt and polymerized rubber or plastic and you get this material. Reinforce it with fiberglass to create a rugged yet flexible waterproof membrane. It’s a popular choice for commercial roofing because of its longevity and durability. Modified bitumen is great for any environment as it can withstand extreme temperatures. It’s a good option for commercial buildings in Austin, as it’s impact-resistant.

Innovative Roofing Technologies and Features

As technology progresses in roofing, so do the advancements in storm resistance capabilities. Companies like GAF are pushing forward to create new roofing materials that are more storm-resistant and technologically driven.

Leak barriers

Leak barriers protect the most vulnerable part of your roof from leaks and ice damming. It will help prevent water from coming up under your shingles or metal roof and leaking into your home. This can be very helpful during a severe storm or hailstorm. If your shingle or metal roof is damaged from a storm, the barrier acts as a second defense to prevent further damage into your home.

Roof Deck Protection

There are roof deck protection products that will help prevent wind-driven rain from getting into your roofing system. Roof deck protection lays over your roof deck over the leak barrier. GAF offers Shingle-Mate Roof Deck Protection as part of their Lifetime Roofing System. Avoid wrinkling or buckling through its fiber-glass reinforcement. This will help your new roof look smooth.

Starter Strip Shingles

Starter strip shingles are for shingle roofing systems to help resist shingle blow-off during a storm or high winds. Starter strip shingles have adhesive which helps lock down shingle edges at eaves and rakes to reduce the risk of shingle blow-offs. This is another helpful aspect of a roofing system to add an extra layer of protection for storm-prone areas like Austin.

Professional Installation and Maintenance

A roofing system installed incorrectly will void the material you choose, even if you choose the best. You must select a roofing company that will prioritize the installation. How the roof is installed will make a big difference as to whether your roof will withstand a storm. It’s important to select a roofing company that has a strong local reputation and presence. This ensures that they won’t hang around for a bit to make some money, and then leave town, leaving you without your warranty. Ask for references to ensure they have happy customers with properly installed roofs that withstand storms. Wilson Roofing has installed roofs on thousands of homes in the Austin area since 1976. We take pride in our reputation of quality over price. While we work to keep our prices low and competitive, we put quality and longevity first.

Maintenance is vital if you live in an area with the potential for serious storms or hail. It’s important to get a yearly inspection to ensure your roof and gutters are in proper working order and have not sustained damage. You should do a quick self-inspection after any storm, severe wind, or hail to see if there is any possible damage. If you spot some, you should get a professional inspection in case it needs repair. It’s important to repair your roof promptly, or the damage will get worse and cause a larger, more expensive issue. You should clean out your gutters in the spring and fall to reduce the potential for water buildup on your roof. Trees around your home should be monitored and trimmed when necessary.

If you need an inspection because you’re concerned about roof damage or your roof is nearing the end of its serviceable life, contact us today to schedule a free inspection.