Storm damage can cause major headaches for you. The damage it causes can set you back a few thousand dollars, so it’s important to make your home as wind-resistant as possible. While doing so is easier on a home during construction, it is possible to add wind mitigation features to an existing home.

Roof Style

Roof styles play a factor in wind damage resistance. A hip roof or one with a four-sided roof design is one of the best choices for storm mitigation. Hip roofs have been proven to be more aerodynamic and resistant to the uplift forces of strong winds than other roof designs.

Bracing

Bracing is applicable if you have a gable-roof (a two-sided pitched roof). The end wall will take most of the beating during a major storm and may collapse if improperly braced. Bracing your gable end walls properly can prevent wind from pushing or pulling the gable end at its weak point, which is the vulnerable hinge line at the joint in between levels.

Roof Pitch

Keep your roof pitch as moderate as possible. A pitch of 3:12 to 6:12, for instance, can result in a lower wind load than homes with steeper or flatter roofs. A roof pitch greater than 12:12, meanwhile, will require engineering and stronger connections in the load path.

Material

Of course, material plays a big role in storm damage resistance. When looking for roofs with impact resistance, roofing that has been tested by UL 2218 with a Class 4 rating is your best bet. You can also choose roofing materials rated for their high wind resistance. Specify these standards when searching for your roof as ordinary roofing may not look different from wind-resistant roofing. Roof coverings that add wind and rain resistance can aid in your wind mitigation goals as well.

Floor Plan

Homes with a square floor plan and a four-panel roof have been found to have reduced wind loads.

How to Add Wind Mitigation Measures to an Existing Home

There are various ways to add wind mitigation principles to your home. For instance, gable roof ends can be reinforced to prevent hinging at the wall line. Inspecting the decking’s underside can also help reveal deck nails that missed the rafters or trusses. Replace them immediately to prevent damage. For aging homes, on the other hand, window and door replacement can help improve your wind resistance. Double-pane insulated windows and doors can greatly enhance your home’s defenses against wind and impact damage as well.

Turn to Dynasty Restoration Inc. for your storm damage restoration needs. We are your leading provider of mitigation and roofing services. Give us a call at (402) 205-2877, or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate.