In addition to wind-resistant shingles, Beall used concrete masonry block (CMU) for durable walls and foundations. The home also features a safe room, doors that swing out, impact-resistant windows and emergency backup power.
Building a Roof that Lasts
"We used Owens Corning 40-year shingles in this project," says Beall. "Compared to traditional shingles, there is little difference in appearance. High-wind-resistant shingles are heavier and thicker and require a different nailing pattern, but they take the same amount of time to install and they don't require a special level of expertise. Any builder can use them."
"Besides quality, the only real difference is the price. While regular shingles cost $70 per square, these cost $97 per square. But for the strength and durability, they're worth it."
Depending on the frequency of storms, the homeowner's cost for a roof with high-wind-resistant shingles could be less than the cost of replacing the roof — to say nothing of storm-damaged interior walls and furnishings. Some insurance companies may also offer a discount on homeowner's insurance for shingles meeting a UL 2218 Class 4 rating.
To complement the strength of the shingles, Beall used a hip roof design, which is less vulnerable than a gable roof in a storm. The roof includes a ridge vent made from a heavier gauge metal that has a lip to prevent water from entering the structure. Beall says ridge vents are stronger than soffit vents and less likely to blow off in a storm. The home also features 5/8-inch roof decking; a tighter nailing pattern than required by code; a peel-and-stick water barrier on all seams of the roof deck; and 30-pound felt. Hurricane straps tie the roof trusses to the body of the house.
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