Wind Gusts
Wind Gusts | Metal Roofing | Roofing | Decatur
When gale-force winds sweep through Decatur, you want a roof that laughs at every sudden gust. HEP’s decades of storm-hardening know-how come together in sleek, precision-engineered metal roofing that locks tight against uplift, resists flying debris, and channels rain away before it has a chance to linger. The result is a quieter home, lower energy bills, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your investment is built for the long haul.
From the first site visit to the final inspection, our local team handles everything with neighborly care—helping you choose colors that complement Decatur’s historic charm, filing insurance paperwork, and leaving your property cleaner than we found it. Backed by industry-leading warranties and 24/7 emergency support, HEP turns brutal wind events into little more than background noise, so you can focus on what matters most.
FAQs
How well do metal roofs withstand Decatur’s high wind gusts and storms?
Modern metal roofing systems are engineered to resist wind speeds of 120–160 mph, well above the peak gusts historically recorded in the Decatur area. Interlocking panels, continuous clips, and high-strength fasteners keep the roof attached to the deck even during straight-line winds and the peripheral gusts of severe thunderstorms or tornadoes. When properly installed over a solid decking system, a metal roof is far less likely to lose panels or suffer water intrusion than traditional asphalt shingles.
What wind-resistance ratings should I look for when choosing metal roofing in Decatur?
Ask for panels that meet or exceed UL 580 Class 90 uplift resistance and UL 1897 testing, plus ASTM E1592 for open-span conditions. Many standing-seam products also carry Miami-Dade NOA or Florida Building Code approvals, which certify performance at 150 mph or higher. These third-party ratings give you measurable proof that the system has been laboratory-tested for extreme wind pressures similar to what Decatur can see during spring and fall storm seasons.
Will installing a metal roof help lower my homeowner’s insurance premiums for wind damage?
In many cases, yes. Because metal roofing is classified as an impact- and wind-resistant covering, insurers often apply credits of 5–20 % on the wind/hail portion of a policy. Savings depend on your carrier and the exact wind rating of the product installed, so be sure to request a certificate from your roofing contractor showing compliance with recognized wind-uplift standards that you can submit to your agent.
How is a metal roof fastened to resist uplift in severe wind events?
For Decatur’s wind zone, we secure standing-seam panels with concealed stainless-steel or galvanized clips spaced 12–18 in. on center, anchored by ring-shank screws that bite into the roof deck. At the eaves and ridges, continuous Z- or hat-shaped cleats distribute loads across multiple fasteners. Perimeter edges are reinforced with 24-ga. metal edging and butyl sealant tape to prevent wind from getting underneath the panels and creating uplift.
Are metal roofs noisy during high winds and rain?
When a metal roof is installed over solid plywood or OSB sheathing with a synthetic underlayment—or over your existing shingle layer—the system is no louder than a conventional roof. The deck and attic insulation absorb most sound. During strong gusts, you may hear a low whistle around rooftop vents, but that is related to airflow, not the metal panels themselves. Properly sealed ridge and eave details minimize any rattling or vibration.
What maintenance does a metal roof require after a windstorm?
Metal roofs are largely maintenance-free, but it’s smart to perform a visual check after any storm that produces wind gusts over 60 mph. Look for displaced ridge caps, loose gutter brackets, or fallen tree limbs that might have dented the panels. Clear branches and debris to keep drainage paths open. If you spot disturbed fasteners or sealant joints, call a certified metal-roofing contractor for re-tightening or re-sealing; ignoring small issues can void your wind warranty.