Why Gabeled Roofs Are A Problem In High Wind

A single storm can destroy a roof in many cases.

Why gabeled roofs are a problem in high wind.

As strong and sturdy as your roof is remember that it won t be able to withstand high uplift pressures if your doors and windows aren t protected. 2 blow offs tenting reduced wind uplift resistance and billowing. High wind hazard a gable roof is one of the simplest roofs to construct but it isn t the best choice in high wind areas. The wind can work its way under the roofing materials and peel them off or it can blow under the soffit and lift the roof right off the structure.

Wind pressures and suctions on roofs. Redesigned roofs withstand high wind events. The tornado that stormed through joplin mo on may 22 shredded an estimated 8 000 buildings and stranded desperate families that now must decide whether to rebuild or find a new home. But there are things you can do to protect your roof and therefore your home.

Proper installation will only end the damage caused by high winds. In high wind areas you may need to spend closer to 5000. If your home has a gable roof two sided pitched roof the end wall takes a beating during a hurricane and typical framing methods create a vulnerable hinge line at the joint between levels. For those choosing to rebuild rima taher an expert on wind resistant structures has a bit of advice.

Hip roofs four sided roof design are more aerodynamic and inherently more resistant to uplift forces of high wind than gable end and other roof designs. Although the dangers of damage to roofs from hurricane winds are vaguely appreciated by most people the nature and distribution of wind forces are not generally understood. The cost of the roofs with a wind resistance is higher than the average one. Low resistance cost about 1 000 dollars extra and the high resistance about 3 000 dollars.

Where a moderately high wind is expected the cost might increase to as much as 3000. And ironically one of the biggest factors in damage to a roof is windblown debris often the debris of other people s failed roofs. Leaks are not the only problem that can result from improperly installed flashing. Building a 4 slope hip style roof has been found to lessen the load of the wind on the house.

Other wind damage to a roof includes damage caused by falling objects and debris such as tree branches and downed powerlines. Hot bituminous roofs where flashing is poorly attached may experience open seams and laps and ultimately cause blow offs reduced puncture resistance and code issues advises care. Originally published august 1965. Roofs are very susceptible to wind damage in part because high winds do not hit roofs uniformly.

If wind speeds are very high even new secure shingles can tear away. A typical 2 slope gable roof is often times cheaper to build but it allows the wind to catch the roof and it is much more easily blown away. Wind protection is a house wide concern.