Hurricane-force Winds
Hurricane-force Winds | Metal Roofing | Roofing | Charleston
Charleston’s coastal beauty comes with the challenge of relentless Atlantic storms, and HEP responds with metal roofing engineered to take on hurricane-force winds without flinching. Our panels lock tight against driving rain, resist uplift far beyond local code requirements, and shrug off salt-air corrosion that undermines ordinary shingles. You’ll enjoy cooler attic temperatures in the sweltering Lowcountry summer thanks to high-reflectivity coatings, while bold color options preserve the historic charm of downtown, the sleek lines of new-builds on Daniel Island, and everything in between.
Backed by industry-leading warranties and HEP’s reputation for meticulous Southern craftsmanship, this upgrade isn’t just a roof—it’s year-round peace of mind. From your first consultation to the final inspection, our team streamlines permitting, offers transparent financing, and finishes on schedule so you’re protected before the next named storm appears on the radar. Choose strength, beauty, and lasting value; choose the Charleston experts who make hurricane preparedness simple.
FAQs
How are metal roofs engineered to withstand Charleston’s hurricane-force winds?
High-quality metal roofing panels are tested and rated for wind uplift resistance under ASTM E1592 and UL 580 protocols. For Charleston’s 130-140 mph design wind speeds, we specify panels with a minimum uplift rating of +/-120 psf and concealed clip systems that allow thermal movement without loosening fasteners. The panels lock together with double-locking seams or snap-lock ribs, and they are anchored to 24-gauge purlins or plywood decking with stainless steel screws every 12–18 inches, exceeding South Carolina Residential Code requirements. Edge metal and ridge caps are installed per ANSI/SPRI ES-1 to keep the entire roof tied down during a hurricane.
Will a metal roof help lower my homeowners-insurance premiums in the Charleston area?
Yes. Many insurers offer wind-mitigation credits of 5-30 % for homes with UL-rated or Miami-Dade-approved metal roofs because the risk of wind damage claims is significantly lower. After installation, we provide the roof uplift test reports and a completed state wind-mitigation form that you can submit to your carrier for possible premium reductions. Savings often recoup a portion of the initial roof investment within a few years.
Is corrosion a concern for metal roofs near the coast?
Charleston’s salt-laden air can accelerate corrosion, but we combat this by using 24-gauge Galvalume (55 % aluminum-zinc coated) steel or coastal-grade aluminum panels with PVDF (Kynar 500®) finishes. These coatings provide a 25- to 35-year finish warranty even in a C5 coastal environment. Fasteners are 304 stainless steel with EPDM washers, and cut edges are sealed to prevent rust. Routine freshwater rinsing and an annual inspection keep the roof looking new for decades.
How does the cost of a hurricane-rated metal roof compare with architectural shingles?
In Charleston, an architectural shingle roof typically runs $4–$6 per square foot installed, with a 15-20-year service life and limited wind coverage up to 110 mph. A hurricane-rated standing-seam metal roof averages $9–$12 per square foot but lasts 50+ years, resists 140 mph winds, may cut insurance costs, and can increase resale value. When life-cycle costs and storm-related repairs are factored in, metal roofing often ends up less expensive than replacing asphalt shingles two to three times.
Will a metal roof make my home hotter or noisier during storms?
No. Modern metal systems are installed over solid decking with an underlayment and usually an attic insulation layer, which achieves the same or better R-value as other roofs. The reflective PVDF coating can actually reduce attic temperatures by 10-15 °F, lowering cooling costs. As for noise, the solid sheathing and attic insulation absorb sound; interior decibel levels during heavy rain are comparable to those under asphalt shingles.
How long does it take to install a hurricane-grade metal roof, and can it be done year-round in Charleston?
Most residential projects (2,000–3,000 sq ft) take 4–6 working days: one day for tear-off, one for decking repairs and synthetic underlayment, two to three for panel installation and trim work. Because metal panels are mechanically seamed and fastened rather than adhered, we can install them in temperatures from 25 °F to 100 °F, so projects proceed year-round. We watch the forecast and pause if sustained winds exceed 30 mph to ensure safety and panel alignment.