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At this point in time, use of metal roofs in residential applications represents
a fairly small portion of the roofing market. Consequently, we have limited
experience with the performance of these products in hurricanes, particularly
in hurricanes where local wind speeds at the homes with metal roofs exceeded
120 mph. Overall, metal roofs do seem to be performing reasonably well.
However, we have certainly seen cases where one or more panels of a standing-seam
roof have been lifted off and we have seen more frequent damage to ridge caps for
all types of metal roofs. Aside from the types of metal roofs, such as the 5-V
Crimp, where the fasteners are installed from the top through the metal we are
not aware of any retrofits that can be taken to strengthen the roof covering
connection. With the externally applied screws, it is possible to periodically
check the fasteners to ensure that they are tight and that the metal is not
rusting around them. Additional fasteners can be installed if the spacing is
too large between the existing fasteners (see the manufacturer's installation
instructions for your design wind speed) or existing fasteners can be replaced
with larger ones if they become loose.
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Holes in metal roof caused
by the impact of flying debris
(clay tiles in this case)
(click image for larger version) |
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Preparation for Emergency Repairs: While we all hope that a hurricane
will not strike where we live, the chances of being struck are higher now that
we are in a period of more frequent Atlantic hurricane activity. You may want
to stock up on things that can be used to perform emergency repairs in case you
do have damage. If a hurricane damages your roof, it is important to button it
back up as quickly as possible to reduce the chances of additional interior
damage to your house. After the hurricane strikes, building materials can be
in short supply and tarps may be very hard to find for some time. Even if you
will not be able to put the tarp up, having one may allow a neighbor, friend,
relative or work crew to help you out.
Tools and materials needed:
- Camera with film or available memory if it is a digital camera
- Tarps (large enough to cover at least one corner of roof from eave up and over ridge)
- 1x3 lumber and box of 2-inch long deck screws
- Battery Powered (fully charged) Drill for driving screws
- Rope and screw eyelets
- Duct tape and foam padding
- Foil backed tape
- Ladder
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Temporary protection after
storm damage to roof
(click image for larger version) |
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Directions: Start by taking photographs of the damage so that you have
documentation for the insurance adjuster. If your damage is limited to holes
as shown in the picture above, you may be able to make temporary repairs using
the foil backed tape. If the damage is more extensive, you will need to put
the tarp over the roof. Check for sharp edges on the metal and pad it with the
foam padding and attach the foam to the roof using the duct tape. Then, stretch
the tarp over the damaged area and extend it up and over the ridge. Anchor edges
of the tarp with 1x3 lumber to the fascia and roof surface just beyond the damaged
area. If the side of the roof beyond the ridge is undamaged, use ropes to tie off
the tarp to screw eyes installed in the fascia or soffit at the bottom of that
side of the roof. Anchoring the tarp in such a way that it adds holes in the roof
cover on undamaged sides of the roof can substantially increase the cost of final
repairs. If you have trees nearby that could fall on your roof, you may want to
also store some pieces of plywood that can be used to bridge across any roof
sheathing damage caused by a falling tree, once the tree is removed.
See Ladder Safety Tips, and do not
try to install a tarp in windy conditions. It may drag you and the ladder right off the side
of the roof
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Establishing a solid water-tight foundation
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