Asphalt Shingles and Wind Resistance
The roof protects the inside of our home from inclement weather and from other outside elements. A solid roof system keeps us safe from strong winds outside. It keeps us dry when it is raining. It provides shelter from heat on a hot day. Therefore, it is very important that we also protect our roof so it can protect us. In particular, we will talk about asphalt shingles and wind resistance in the Philippines.
The roof is the cover of our home. As such, it is located at a very vulnerable position. More importantly, it is exposed to the violence of typhoon winds. Violent winds can cause sudden roof damage when a strong typhoon passes through. However, asphalt shingles can also be adversely affected even on a normal windy day.
Always being prepared against unpredictable winds is the best defense. You must concern yourself with your asphalt shingles and wind resistance. This article talks about the potential roof damage from wind on your asphalt shingle.
The Interaction Between Wind and your Asphalt Shingle Roof
Wind moves in unpredictable and random patterns. Therefore, wind does not always move in a steady, constant direction. It is an effect of temperature and pressure changes in the Earth’s atmosphere. Moreover, it is also a result of the land’s terrain and topography. As a result, wind swirls up and down, moves sideways, and performs circular patterns at different speeds.
However, the interaction between your asphalt shingles and wind resistance is more predictable. Wind travels up towards your roof when it hits the sides of your home. In addition, it goes over your roof with changing degrees of uplift pressure. Therefore, uplift pressure is highest at the eaves of your roof. These areas are particularly vulnerable to wind damage. More importantly, once the wind travels the surface of the roof, suction pressure can lift your asphalt shingles off.
Factors That Affect Asphalt Shingles and Wind Resistance
Several factors influence the speed and direction of wind and how it affects your asphalt shingles:
- Roof Layout. In general, roofs with higher slopes, longer gable lines, and wider eave overhangs are more susceptible to wind pressure.
- Location of your Home. Stronger winds are expected in areas that are typhoon-prone. For example, seaside homes are more exposed compared to those in the city.
- Quality of the Plywood Decking. Local generic plywood is notoriously known for poor quality that will not last over time. Invest in quality plywood that will survive wear and tear. In particular, as the plywood rots, the nails that fasten the shingles may become loose.
- Quality of Nails. Ensure that your nails are of the highest quality. The integrity of your asphalt shingles will be only as good as the quality of your other materials.
- Poor Installation. Scrimping on nails, misaligned shingles, improperly sealed flashings and poor workmanship will all cause your asphalt shingle roof to be more exposed to wind pressure.
It ss a good thing that with KAWARA, not only are you investing in a Quality roof, you are also investing in Quality Solutions. Our value proposition is delivering excellent customer service. More importantly, this includes excellent installation workmanship and strong after-sales support. Trust KAWARA to be your roofing partner and let us help you manage your asphalt shingles and wind resistance.