How to Protect Commercial Roofs from Wind Damage: A Guide for Building Owners

Strong winds can cause significant damage to commercial roofs—regardless of whether you're in a hurricane zone or a region prone to seasonal storms. From torn flashing to full roof uplift, wind-related losses cost businesses millions each year in repairs, downtime, and insurance claims.

At Risk Assured, we specialize in helping commercial property owners reduce risk and extend the life of their roofing systems. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors that contribute to wind damage and outline proven best practices for prevention.

Photo by Irina Iriser on Unsplash

Understanding the Threat: Wind Speeds and Storm Types

Many regions across the United States experience damaging winds, not just those along coastlines. Even moderate wind events can damage roof components or weaken their integrity over time.

Common Wind Events That Threaten Roofs:

• Hurricanes: Category 1 hurricanes begin at 74 mph. Category 5 storms exceed 157 mph.

• Tropical Storms: Wind speeds range from 39 to 74 mph—often enough to lift or tear roofing materials.

• Tornadoes: Though most common in the Midwest, tornadoes have occurred in all 50 states.

• Derechos: Fast-moving, long-track windstorms that cause widespread, straight-line wind damage.

• Severe Thunderstorms: Account for nearly half of all severe weather reports in the continental U.S., according to NOAA.

Even in areas that don’t frequently see extreme weather, your building should be designed and maintained to resist high winds.

Roof Design and Material Considerations for Wind Resistance

Your roof's ability to withstand wind starts with its shape, materials, and installation quality.

Key Design Elements:

• Shape: Both flat and sloped roofs can be vulnerable to wind uplift, depending on how airflow interacts with the structure.

• Material: Use roofing materials that are tested and rated for wind resistance. Options include:

  • Modified bitumen

  • Metal panels

  • Impact-resistant asphalt shingles

  • TPO and EPDM membranes (with reinforced edges)

• Installation: Roof performance in storms often depends on how well flashing, underlayment, and fasteners are installed. Poor craftsmanship increases vulnerability.

When re-roofing, choose materials rated by UL (Underwriters Laboratories) or a nationally recognized testing lab to meet or exceed your area’s basic wind speed requirements.

Why Flashing Installation Is Critical

Metal flashing is essential to roof performance during wind events. It reinforces weak points—like edges, vents, and corners—where uplift forces are highest.

Flashing Protection Checklist:

• Inspect perimeter flashing for gaps, loose seams, or corrosion

• Verify fasteners are tight, especially at corners (less than 12 inches apart)

• Ensure caulk is intact and hasn’t cracked or deteriorated

• Check that flashing hasn't peeled or lifted during past storms

• Replace or repair any damaged or missing sections

Flashing failures are often the first sign of developing roof damage and can allow both wind and water to enter the building during a storm.

Routine Roof Maintenance Is Your Best Defense

Maintenance plays a vital role in wind damage prevention. A neglected roof is far more likely to fail under pressure.

Maintenance Tips for Wind-Resistant Roofing:

• Schedule semi-annual roof inspections, especially before and after storm season

• Repair loose, blistered, or deteriorating materials immediately

• Remove debris that could block drains or shift during high winds

• Document the condition of the roof with photos for insurance purposes

Post-Storm Inspections: What to Look For

After a wind event, inspect the roof immediately for visible and hidden damage. Look for:

• Torn, lifted, or missing roofing material

• Water stains on ceilings or interior walls

• Debris impact damage

• Loose or missing flashing and edge materials

• Ponding water caused by disrupted drainage

Prompt repair is essential to avoid further water intrusion and prevent structural damage.

Final Thoughts: Build Resilience from the Top Down

Wind damage to commercial roofs is preventable. By designing for local conditions, using high-performance materials, installing flashing correctly, and maintaining your roof regularly, you can significantly reduce your exposure to costly wind-related claims.

At Risk Assured, we help businesses protect what matters most—starting at the roofline. Whether you’re building new or maintaining an aging system, our risk advisors provide tailored strategies to safeguard your property.

Contact us today to schedule a commercial roof risk assessment or request a custom wind-resistance inspection checklist.