Residents of Charlottetown PEI, Canada, usually stay prepared for the storm season. There are several gusty storms accompanied by torrential rain. Such natural events take a toll on infrastructure and property. The worst hit area of your home is the roof.
If you are planning to replace or repair your roof, you might be confused about choosing between asphalt shingles and metal. Both materials have their pros and cons. However, in areas where tropical storms and Atlantic hurricanes are common, choosing the right material is important. It is not only about the appearance or the cost of the material. Before making a final decision, it also helps to understand how the entire project is managed, so take a moment to learn more about our design-build process and see how expert planning can lead to a stronger, longer-lasting roof.
- How does each roof material react to tropical storms?
Standard asphalt shingles are rated to withstand wind speeds up to approximately 60 mph. Metal roofs can endure wind speeds up to 140 mph. A Category 1 hurricane starts at approximately 119 hm/h, which is about 74 mph. This means that a standard asphalt roof is below the limit even before the storm hits full hurricane strength. When it comes to storm damage roof repair Charlottetown PEI, Metal roofs are a better choice.
Metal roofs have a mechanical fastening system, and the roofing panels interlock on all four sides. The wind doesn’t get space to get underneath and cause uplift. The fasteners are also concealed, reducing the risk of deterioration from weather conditions. Of course, you have to hire a veteran roofing company to set up the roof.
- Important Maritime factors: ice, salt air, and freeze-thaw cycles
Strong winds are not the only issue in Atlantic Canada. There is the problem of salt air from the ocean. This speeds up the process of breakdown of adhesive-based materials. Freeze-thaw cycles are common, causing expansion and contraction that loosen shingles over time. Ice storms form heavy ridges and force water backward under the shingles.
Metal roofs can cope better with rust and oxidation from salt air. The freeze-thaw cycles also don’t cause cracking or warping in the metal roofs. Metal roofs can better withstand maritime factors.
- Advantages of asphalt shingles
The upfront cost of asphalt shingles is much lower than that of metal roofing. This gap becomes a decisive factor for many homeowners. A complete metal roof installation costs more, depending on the size of the home.
Also, repairing shingles is easier, and temporary repairs take minimal time. Metal roofs need specialized replacement panels and crews, which is time-consuming.
- Costing and durability
Metal roofs from Artisanroofing.ca win the argument decisively. While asphalt shingle roofs need replacement every 12 to 15 years, metal roofs can last 3 times as long. Though the upfront cost of installing a metal roof is high, its durability makes up for it.
Summing it up
There is no doubt that metal roofing is the best and safest option for home roofing in Atlantic Canada. The standing seam profile interlocks the entire roof surface, making it strong and durable. Choose the right metal roof and hire a reliable service provider to protect your home from the Atlantic storms. Timely action on your part goes a long way in ensuring the longevity of your roof.
