When it comes to protecting your home from the forces of hurricanes, the shape of your roof is just as important as the material it's made of. Engineers have developed the most hurricane-resistant roof shape to be hexagonal or octagonal, but if that doesn't appeal to you, a four-pitched roof with four slopes is your best bet. This multi-slope roof design is much more stable than a gable roof, which only has two slopes, and can better withstand high winds. Metal roofs are an ideal option for withstanding hurricanes, as they are durable and don't have shingles that could be blown away by the wind.
Metal roofs can handle winds of up to 160 miles per hour, making them suitable for Category 4 hurricanes. A four-pitched roof is the best option to combat gusts and hurricanes, as it tilts upward from all sides and has no vertical ends. The best results will be achieved with a 30-degree ceiling. Unlike metal roofs, ceramic tile roofs use individual pieces, usually joined together with wire, clips and concrete.
You can also consider where metal roofs are susceptible to damage, such as hailstorms. This roof resists lift, which can occur when the moving air stream contacts a flat roof. If you're building a home, roofing professionals recommend a hexagon or octagon-shaped roof with several panels (four or more) to reduce wind load. Metal roofs are exceptionally durable and can comfortably withstand winds of up to 160 mph before you have to worry about damage. Roofs with lower slopes tend not to withstand rain as well, and steeper roofs are more susceptible to damage during strong winds.
However, the most common reason metal roofs fail is improper installation. When it comes to choosing the best roof shape for hurricanes, there are several factors to consider. Hexagonal or octagonal roofs are the most hurricane-resistant shapes, but if that doesn't appeal to you, a four-pitched roof with four slopes is your best bet. Metal roofs are an ideal option for withstanding hurricanes due to their durability and ability to handle winds of up to 160 mph. Ceramic tile roofs also provide good protection against hurricanes but may be more susceptible to damage from hailstorms.
Finally, make sure that your roof is properly installed in order to maximize its hurricane-resistance.
