Can a Roof Withstand 100 mph Winds

by | Jul 9, 2025 | Blog

Can a Roof Withstand 100 mph Winds? What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

When a powerful windstorm sweeps through your neighborhood, one question becomes top of mind for many homeowners:

Can a roof withstand 100 mph winds?

Whether you live in Jefferson, Ohio, Youngstown, or along the Lake Erie shoreline in Ashtabula County, understanding your roof’s ability to withstand extreme weather isn’t just smart — it’s essential.

In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore:

  • What wind speeds your roof can handle
  • How roofing materials are rated for wind resistance
  • Factors that affect your roof’s wind resilience
  • Signs of wind damage
  • Tips to stormproof your home
  • Why proper installation is critical
  • How S\&K Construction and Remodeling LLC protects Northeast Ohio homes
  • What to do after a storm
  • Insurance claims and roof repairs
  • Real Google reviews from your neighbors

Let’s dive in and answer the big question: Can your roof survive 100 mph winds?


Understanding Wind Speeds: What Is 100 mph Really Like?

A wind gust of 100 mph is classified as a Category 2 hurricane-force wind on the Saffir-Simpson scale. That’s strong enough to:

  • Uproot trees
  • Tear off roofing shingles
  • Rip siding and gutters off homes
  • Break windows
  • Uplift entire sections of poorly built or aging roofs

Ohio isn’t typically hurricane-prone, but we’re no strangers to severe thunderstorms, derechos, and tornadoes — especially in counties like Lake, Geauga, and Trumbull. So yes, you absolutely need a roof that can handle serious wind speeds.


Can a Roof Withstand 100 mph Winds?

Short answer: Yes — if it’s built and installed correctly.

The ability of a roof to withstand 100 mph winds depends on several factors:

✅ 1. Type of Roofing Material

Each material has a different wind rating:

  • Asphalt shingles (standard): 60–80 mph
  • Architectural shingles (Owens Corning Duration): Up to 130 mph
  • Metal roofing: 120–160 mph
  • Tile or slate: 100–150 mph (if installed with appropriate fasteners)
  • Flat roofing (TPO or EPDM): 100+ mph if fully adhered

For Ohio homeowners, high-wind-rated architectural shingles like Owens Corning Duration Series are a smart, budget-friendly option — and yes, they’re rated up to 130 mph when installed properly.

✅ 2. Installation Quality

Even the highest-rated shingles won’t protect your home if they’re poorly installed. That’s why it’s critical to choose a certified, experienced local roofer like S\&K Construction and Remodeling LLC.

We’re proud to be an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, which means we follow strict manufacturer guidelines for nailing patterns, flashing, underlayment, and ventilation — all of which contribute to wind resistance.

✅ 3. Roof Age and Condition

An older roof with curled shingles, rotted decking, or loose flashing won’t hold up under 100 mph winds. If your roof is more than 15–20 years old, it may be time to replace it — especially if you live in a wind-prone region.

✅ 4. Roof Pitch and Shape

Roofs with steep pitches often perform better under high wind pressure than flat or low-slope roofs. Gable roofs are more vulnerable to uplift at the ends, while hip roofs are generally more wind-resistant.

✅ 5. Proper Roof Decking and Fasteners

It’s not just about what’s on top — your roof decking, nails, and connectors need to be strong too. At S\&K Construction, we use proper sheathing and wind-rated fasteners to ensure everything stays anchored.


Signs of Wind Damage to Your Roof

Even if your roof seems okay after a storm, hidden damage can lead to big problems later. Keep an eye out for:

  • Missing, cracked, or curled shingles
  • Granules collecting in gutters
  • Bent or detached flashing
  • Leaks in your attic or ceilings
  • Loose or detached gutters and downspouts
  • Exposed roofing nails
  • Roof decking that feels soft or spongy

Tip: After any major windstorm, schedule a free inspection with a professional local roofer. Early detection = fewer repairs and lower costs.


How to Protect Your Roof From Wind Damage

🛠️ 1. Install High-Wind-Rated Shingles

Choose shingles with ASTM D3161 Class F or ASTM D7158 Class H ratings — both are wind-tested up to 110–130 mph. Owens Corning Duration Shingles with SureNail® Technology are a top choice we install across Northeast Ohio.

🛠️ 2. Reinforce Flashing and Edges

Edge protection is one of the most common failure points in windstorms. Secure drip edges, step flashing, and ridge caps to minimize uplift.

🛠️ 3. Secure Gutters and Downspouts

Loose gutters can pull back fascia and even rip into your roof deck during a windstorm.

🛠️ 4. Keep Trees Trimmed

Falling branches are a leading cause of storm roof damage. Trim trees that hang near your roof or power lines.

🛠️ 5. Inspect Annually

Have a trusted roofer perform an annual roof inspection to check for signs of wear, especially before storm season.


Local Expertise Matters in High-Wind Roofing

At S\&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we’ve helped homeowners across Jefferson, Ashtabula, Youngstown, and surrounding cities prepare for and recover from severe weather events. From minor repairs to full tear-offs, we build every roof with Northeast Ohio’s unpredictable climate in mind.

Our team is trained in:

  • Wind mitigation techniques
  • Ice and water shield installation
  • Proper attic ventilation
  • Code-compliant fastener patterns
  • Ridge and hip shingle reinforcement
  • High-performance synthetic underlayment

We’re not storm chasers — we’re your neighbors. Our headquarters is right here in Ashtabula County, and we take pride in offering honest advice, fair pricing, and reliable workmanship that holds up under pressure.


What to Do After a Windstorm Hits

If your area just experienced high winds or tornado-level gusts, here’s what to do:

  1. Stay safe — Don’t climb on your roof. Hazards may be hidden.
  2. Look for visible damage — Check the yard for shingles or debris.
  3. Inspect the attic — Look for water leaks, daylight, or stains.
  4. Call a professional — Schedule a free inspection with S\&K Construction.
  5. Start the insurance process — We’ll help you document damage and file a claim.

Will Insurance Cover Wind Damage to My Roof?

Most homeowner’s policies do cover windstorm damage, but coverage can vary based on:

  • Roof age
  • Deductible amounts
  • Type of damage (cosmetic vs. structural)
  • Type of material (some insurers prorate for older 3-tab shingles)

We’ve helped many homeowners get their claims approved by working directly with adjusters and supplying documentation, photos, and damage assessments.


Real Stories from Local Homeowners

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“After a massive windstorm in March, we noticed shingles in our backyard. S\&K Construction came out the same day, inspected everything, and helped us start an insurance claim. Within a week, we had a beautiful new Owens Corning roof. Highly recommend these guys!”
Linda R., Madison, OH

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I was so stressed about my roof after the storm, but S\&K Construction made it easy. Their team was professional, quick, and cleaned up everything. My house looks brand new.”
James M., Jefferson, OH


We Offer Financing — Because Storms Don’t Wait for Payday

Wind damage doesn’t always happen on schedule — but roof repairs can’t wait. That’s why we offer flexible financing options so you can restore your roof quickly, without draining your savings.

Even if insurance won’t cover everything, we can help you break payments down into affordable monthly terms. Ask about 0% promotional financing on qualifying projects.


Areas We Serve

S\&K Construction and Remodeling LLC proudly protects homes across:

  • Jefferson
  • Ashtabula
  • Youngstown
  • Madison
  • Willoughby
  • Chardon
  • Geneva
  • Painesville
  • Lakewood
  • All of Northeast Ohio

Searching for a “roofer near me who can handle wind damage?” We’re already in your neighborhood.


Final Thoughts: Can Your Roof Really Handle 100 mph Winds?

Yes — but only if it’s up to the task.

Modern roofing materials, expert installation, and annual inspections make it possible for roofs to withstand 100+ mph winds. But aging shingles, poor construction, or lack of maintenance can spell disaster when the next big storm rolls through.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your home and your peace of mind with a roof built to handle whatever Ohio’s weather throws your way.


Get a Free Storm Damage Roof Inspection

Whether you’ve already experienced damage or just want to get prepared, our team is here to help.

Call us today at [Your Phone Number] or visit [Your Website URL] to schedule your free wind-resistance inspection.


S\&K Construction and Remodeling LLC
🏠 Proudly Based in Jefferson, OH
🔨 Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
📍 Serving All of Northeast Ohio


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