If you find yourself thinking about what is going on with this crazy weather lately, you’re not alone. The United States has had a record breaking number of weather disasters in 2023, and the year is not over yet. Hurricane Idalia blew into Florida making history as a record breaking storm, surpassing the 2020 U.S. total of 22 weather disasters in one year.
NOAA, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has estimated 23 U.S. weather disasters with damage of at least $1 billion have happened within the first 9 months of 2023. Eighteen of those disastrous weather events were from severe thunderstorms and tornadoes.
Storms have a captivating and destructive power that can leave homeowners devastated, and recent storms have been no exception. As of October 23, there have already been 1,165 tornadoes confirmed within the U.S. not to mention extreme amounts of rainfall, and golfball-size hail leaving homeowners and builders across the country with severely damaged roofs. Severe conditions like these can pummel your home’s protective shield, leaving your roof and family vulnerable to further harm.
Traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles, wood, clay, and concrete tiles may struggle to hold up under the pressure of severe storms.
ASSESSING ROOF DAMAGE IN THE WAKE OF A STORM
The aftermath of storms can be overwhelming, but knowing how to handle roof damage and navigate the insurance process is crucial for a swift recovery. After a storm passes, carefully assess the extent of the damage to your roof. It’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection to identify any visible signs of destruction. Here are five key indicators to look for:
- Missing or damaged shingles: High winds can dislodge shingles or even tear them off completely.
- Water leaks: Check for water stains on your ceilings, walls, or attic. These are clear signs of roof damage that may not be visible from the outside.
- Dents and cracks: Hail can leave dents and cracks in roofing materials, making them more susceptible to leaks.
- Fallen debris: Tree branches, leaves, or other debris may have landed on your roof during the storm, causing damage.
- Gutters and downspouts: Inspect your gutters and downspouts for any signs of damage or blockages caused by debris.
Avoiding the stress and inconvenience of roof damage is ideal for any homeowner. In this era of unpredictable weather patterns synthetic roofing is emerging as a smart and resilient alternative. Unlike traditional materials, synthetics do not warp, crack, or rot when exposed to moisture. They can withstand heavy rains, hailstorms, and strong winds without showing signs of wear and tear. synthetic roofing materials such as synthetic slate, and shake are engineered to be highly durable and designed to endure harsh weather conditions without deteriorating. With a longer lifespan, synthetic roofing often comes with warranties that can extend up to 50 years or more, providing peace of mind in an era of unpredictable weather patterns.
FIVE BENEFITS OF SYNTHETIC ROOFING
- Resistance to Extreme Temperatures
Extreme heat and cold can take a toll on traditional roofing materials. Synthetic roofing, however, is designed to resist temperature extremes. It can expand and contract without losing its shape or structural integrity. This resilience is especially valuable in regions where temperature fluctuations are common and can cause conventional roofing materials to weaken over time.
- Easy Installation
Synthetic roofing materials are often lighter than their traditional counterparts. This weight advantage makes them easier to transport, handle, and install. In storm-prone areas, where rapid repairs might be necessary after a severe weather event, the ease of installation can be a significant advantage. It reduces labor costs and speeds up the recovery process, minimizing the disruption to homeowners’ lives.
- Durability: Impact and Wind Resistance
Extreme weather often brings hail storms and high winds, which can lead to costly roof repairs. Synthetic roofing materials are designed to be impact-resistant, reducing the risk of damage from hail and debris. Additionally, many synthetic roofing options have excellent wind resistance, with some capable of withstanding winds of up to 130 mph or more. This is a crucial factor for homeowners in hurricane-prone regions.
- Low Maintenance
Traditional roofing materials can require regular maintenance, such as cleaning, sealing, and replacing damaged tiles or shingles. Synthetic roofing, on the other hand, is low-maintenance. It doesn’t require painting, sealing, or frequent inspections, saving homeowners time and money in the long run.
- Eco-Friendly
Synthetic roofing materials often include eco-friendly options made from recycled materials. These sustainable choices help reduce waste and have a lower environmental impact. Furthermore, synthetic roofing materials are energy-efficient, as they often reflect heat and UV rays, helping to keep homes cooler and reduce energy consumption.
CONCLUSION
Mother Nature can be both awe-inspiring and terrifying. To withstand our current unpredictable era of extreme weather and storms, people are forced to be resilient. When it comes to protecting your home and loved ones from the wrath of Mother Nature, investing in synthetic roofing materials is another layer of protection for homeowners and builders looking for durability, longevity, and resilience.