Oklahomans know a few things about high winds and high wind damage. After all, our state is smack dab in the middle of tornado alley. Even if we don’t get the full-blown impact of an actual tornado, we have lots of thunderstorms that can cause high wind roof damage. Our state song even talks about our famous “winds sweeping down the plains.”

These high-wind storms pack a punch with gusts often topping 110 miles per hour. Winds like this will have you cleaning up downed tree limbs, retrieving patio furniture from the neighbors and trampolines that acted more like parachutes. And, that’s all before you see what might have happened to your roof.

It’s important to understand what materials withstand the highest Oklahoma winds. Here are some answers to some commonly asked questions to make sure you understand how to protect your home from high wind damage.

The Best Roof for High Wind Storm

Newer, modern or recently installed roofs are rated to withstand winds up to 90 miles per hour. Some roofing materials are rated up to 150 miles per hour. This product is ideal if you are particularly concerned about damage from wind or tornadoes.

However, you can start to see damage with winds as low as around 50 miles per hour, especially if your roof is older or installed improperly. After every major storm with sustained high winds, do a visual check of your roof to see if it appears you have any damage, no matter the actual velocity of the winds.

What type of roof is the strongest against high wind storms?

Both fiberglass shingles and clay shingles can be a strong choice when looking for a roof that can handle high winds. When installed properly, several options are rated at 150 miles an hour. However, these options can have drawbacks. For examples, winds can damage clay shingles, or they can break off during high winds and become dangerous projectiles.

For overall durability, metal roofing is one of the best roofing materials to consistently sustain high winds for the duration of the life of the roof. Metal roofing has less seams and overlaps than other roof options. In addition, it has fewer places for wind and water to get underneath the roof, making it a great option for high-wind or tornado prone areas. Most metal roofs are rated at 150 miles per hour.

What is the best roof shape for high wind storms?

For wind protection, you want a hip roof that has four slopes, pitched ideally at about 30 degrees. More slopes will handle high winds better. Therefore, anything more than a two-slope gable roof will be extra resistant to high wind damage.

How is your roof holding up to high wind storms?

Have spring storms battered your tired roof? Are you concerned you might have loose shingles or need repairs due to high wind damage? Call Turner Roofing, and we’ll come out and take a look. As always, we’ll give you a free inspection and estimate to let you know if these storms caused permanent damage.

Is your roof ready to weather the storm? Check out these tips on how to prepare your roof for storm season.