Typhoons are not uncommon in the Philippines, with around 20 tropical cyclones hitting the country per year. In events of heavy rainfall and strong winds, devastating casualties happen. To protect us and our homes, choosing strong and durable roofing material is key. Investing in the right quality secures your safety for generations to come.
Let’s look at the best metal roofings for high winds. Here are the recommended installation techniques, roof maintenance, and roof price considerations in the Philippines.
Understanding Wind Resistance in Roofing Materials
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) categorizes wind speed through signal numbers 1 to 5, with 5 being the strongest. The faster the wind, the greater the damage.
One of the factors to consider when picking the best wind-resistant roofing material is wind uplift resistance. Wind uplift resistance tests roofing materials’ ability to resist upward forces. The higher the resistance, the lesser a roof is likely to lift off your house.
Types of Roofs for High-Wind Areas
Ensure your roof can withstand strong winds during typhoon season with these recommended options.
Hip Roofs
In high-wind areas, a hip roof can enhance your home’s structural integrity and wind resistance. It has slopes rising from all sides of the building. With an aerodynamic shape, it performs better in windstorms compared to traditional gable roofs. Its sloped design creates a stalling effect that keeps the roof in place. It also minimizes clogged gutters and flooding. Hip roofs use strong sheathing and framing materials that add to their stability.
The added benefits of hip roofs often translate to a higher price point. Installation and labor are costly because the construction is longer and more complex. Aside from that, hip roofs also need more materials.
Gable Roofs
Gable roofs resemble the letter “A,” popular for their affordability and efficient water drainage. It creates more attic space and natural ventilation, a plus for many homeowners.
However, gable roofs pose more structural challenges in high-wind areas. Rain and moisture accumulation can weaken its integrity without regular maintenance. Strong winds can strip roofing materials or uplift overhangs and detach the roof from the house itself. That’s why proper bracing and framing are crucial. Here’s how:
- Use full-height studs or solid masonry walls. They extend from the floor to the roof to enhance structural integrity, as the roof becomes part of the wall. Proper bracing at this intersection is essential as well to guarantee adequate support.
- For homes with attics, an attic floor or ceiling diaphragm provides lateral support. Install proper bracing along the top and bottom gable ends with metal hurricane connectors to secure them.
- In homes with cathedral ceilings next to a gable end wall, professional input may be necessary. Registered architects or licensed engineers can provide better insights on such.
Installation Techniques That Enhance Wind Resistance
Along with the right roofing material and design type, expert roof installation is a must. Combining the following strategies can improve durability and resilience against wind damage:
- Proper Nailing and Fastening: Use the right type of nails, such as ring-shank nails. Following recommended nailing patterns ensures secure attachment of shingles.
- Roof Pitch Considerations: Select an appropriate roof pitch. Steeper roofs deflect wind better, reducing pressure on the roofing material.
- Edge Reinforcement: Reinforce loose areas with metal flashing and continuous strapping. This protects the edges from wind-driven rain and uplift.
Professional help guarantees the best quality and practicality. Union Galvasteel Corporation’s roofing solutions ensure precise installation for lasting protection. Our skilled technicians provide services aligned with your home’s best interest.
Maintaining Your Roof in Wind-prone Areas
Roof maintenance is a task for the professionals. It can be dangerous without proper safety equipment or training. If you choose to conduct roof inspections on your own, be sure to proceed with caution.
Check for loose shingles or tiles, as they are almost always the first to go missing. When you lose even one, make sure to have it fixed ASAP. Loose roofing weakens the shingle below, making your roof more vulnerable over time. Then, check inside your house. Look for ceiling leaks and interior damage. They can be more expensive and troublesome to deal with. Consider adding extra beams and metal braces for support. Install thick metal flashing at the roof edges.
Price Considerations: Balancing Cost and Durability
Quality should not be compromised for affordability. Every Filipino home deserves quality roofing solutions that can resist unpredictable weather. Aside from price considerations, here are other factors to balance cost and durability.
- Invest in high-quality roofing to achieve long-term savings. This reduces maintenance costs, improves energy efficiency, and lowers heating and cooling expenses.
- Make informed purchasing decisions by evaluating the cost-effectiveness of different options. Metal roofing is affordable yet guarantees high durability and longevity. Tile roofing is more expensive and may need more repairs but lasts much longer.
How Union Galvasteel Corporation Can Protect Your Home
If you are looking to invest in longevity and resilience, look no further! Union Galvasteel offers trusted roofing services and top-notch roofing and flashing products that are on par with international standards. Tailored to the ever-changing Philippine climate, our experts can elevate the value of your home.
To learn more about our roofing materials and price lists, visit our website, Facebook, and email (inquiries@cmg.ph). You can also reach us through these numbers: 09175033965 (Globe) and 09190032303 (Smart).
