When you’re building a new home, it’s important to educate yourself about the options you have for building materials. In most hurricane-prone areas, state and local government have rules and regulations about the types of materials that you can use to build in order to mitigate hurricane damage. The purpose of these regulations is not only to protect property from heavy damages, but also individuals from flying debris. Here are a few types of shingles that are typically approved for high-wind and hurricane prone areas.
1. Metal Roofing
Metal roofing isn’t a typical look for water front property, but the benefits are numerous. The metal resists corrosion from salt and sand, doesn’t burn, and can’t be eaten by insects. Many mental roofs can sustain winds of over 100 miles per hour, and some companies design specific hurricane-resistant roofing. The metal does damage easily upon impact, however, and could be expensive to replace if it does get damaged during severe weather.
2. Clay Tile
Clay tiles also stand up well to salt spray and high winds. Additionally, clay tiles allow for air to flow to the water barrier protection underneath that is required by law in many oceanfront counties. This helps water that does get underneath of shingles to dry more readily. The downside to clay tiles is their weight. With many types, some additional reinforcements may need to be added to support the roof.
3. Hardwood Shingles
Hardwood has long been popular in coastal regions, because wood like cedar holds up to salt spray. However, they don’t have the same longevity as other types of roofing materials. That is, unless you use hardwood shingles like the Turada Hardwood Shingles that are made from imported Wallaba wood typically grown in Guyana. These hardwood shingles and shakes are Miami Dade County approved because they meet all of the fire safety and hurricane-resistant requirements. They are never chemically treated and last upward of fifty years.
Being aware of the building regulations in your area will help you choose the materials that are best for your new home.