The onset of spring not only brings pleasant weather and blooming flowers but also a threat of tornadoes—especially if you are in North Texas. If you are planning a roof replacement in Plano, TX, to strengthen the structure of your property, you need to comply with the Texas Windstorm Building Code.
Triumph Roofing breaks down the basic roofing requirements of the building code that Plano homeowners and every Plano roofing company need to adhere to during roof replacement and construction. Read on for answers to six commonly asked questions on the subject—directly from a professional roofing contractor!
1. What Are the Roof Options for Residential Construction?
Texas experiences two severe weather conditions—hail and strong winds. Your roof needs to be able to withstand these conditions or your home could suffer significant damage during a storm, which is why the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) enforces strict windstorm building code requirements in order to obtain insurance coverage for windstorm damage.
But here’s the thing: those requirements aren’t one-size-fits-all. They actually vary based on the type of roofing material used.
Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Though Plano, Texas, homeowners have several options to choose from, asphalt shingles are the most common roofing materials used for residential properties. When choosing asphalt shingles, select the ones that meet ASTM D 3161 Class F or ASTM D 7158 Class H requirements. Most of the manufacturers indicate compliance on the wrapper of the shingles.
Tile Roofs
Tile roofs are durable and stylish, but their weight means anchoring them correctly is critical. TDI rules require uplift resistance testing, approved fastening systems (like clips or foam adhesives), and sometimes structural engineering if your home wasn’t originally built for the weight. We guide you through the paperwork and install every tile with precision so you get the charm without the chaos.
Metal Roofs
Metal roofs are often used in wind-prone areas like Plano, TX. But even these tough roofs have to pass the test. TDI mandates that panels be tested for uplift resistance and that fasteners, clips, and seams follow certified guidelines. Standing seam systems often need special spacing on purlins and decking to meet windstorm requirements.
2. Which Type of Underlayment Should Be Installed?
Homeowners need to install a minimum of No. 15 underlayment for asphalt shingle installation. It is mandatory to have two layers of felt for roof slopes from 2:12 to 4:12. If the roof slope is 4:12 or greater, only one layer of felt is required. The roofer needs to install the felt as per the instruction of the building code or the shingles manufacturer.
Tile roofs are heavy-duty, and the underlayment has to match that strength. TDI requires underlayments that comply with ASTM D 226 Type II, ASTM D 2626 Type I, or ASTM D 6380 Class M. These materials are tough enough to hold up under tile and help prevent water intrusion, especially during the kind of wind-driven rainstorms Texas likes to throw our way.
For metal shingles, you’ll need a felt that meets ASTM D 226 Type I or II or ASTM D 4869 Types I-IV. In many cases, synthetic underlayments are also approved—these are lighter, tear-resistant, and more weather-resistant, which is a huge plus during install or if the metal panels get delayed. We make sure to use materials that are TDI-approved and fully compliant with your home’s windstorm certification needs.
3. Which Type of Roofing Nails Are Used to Install Shingles?
Only galvanized steel or stainless steel roofing nails with a minimum 12-gauge shank and 3/8” diameter head are permitted for shingle installation. The building code doesn’t permit the use of staples for installing shingles. When installing metal roof panels, concrete roofing tiles, and metal shingles, the roofing contractor needs to follow the instructions given by the manufacturer.
4. Is a Roofing Permit Necessary? How Do You Apply for One?
It is mandatory for any residential or commercial property in the state of Texas to have a roofing permit before the entire process begins. The Federal Emergency Management Agency terms it as an important part of roof replacement in Plano, TX, and failure to obtain the permit could result in delayed construction or fines.
You need to check the building codes and contact the Plano, TX, Building Inspections Department to get a roofing permit before starting any remodeling project.
5. Can You Skip the Windstorm Inspection?
If any Plano home or business owner is eligible for a windstorm insurance, it is mandatory that the roof undergoes a high-wind inspection. The Federal Emergency Management Agency requires that either a TDI Windstorm Inspector or Texas-licensed professional engineer who is certified as a qualified windstorm inspector performs the roof inspection. The inspector observes the construction process and approves the finished product at the end for Plano residents. If your Plano, TX, home needs extensive repairs due to storm damage, the roof repair may also require inspection.
6. How Do You Get Insurance Discounts for Roofing Material?
If you wish to qualify for an impact-resistant roofing material discount on your insurance, it is mandatory to get the property damage covered through the Texas Department of Insurance. Only the roof coverings approved by a certified laboratory are eligible for a discount. Roofing materials need to meet UL Standard 2218 to pass the impact resistance test. In addition, you can speak to your contractor to find out if they also have any discounts available for their roofing services for additional savings.
Protect Your Plano, TX Home
When it comes to roof replacement, most insurance companies require the construction to comply with the local building code. Therefore, it is always better to check the norms with your insurance agent before starting the roof construction or replacement work. Constructing or repairing a roof while adhering to the norms defined by the state government and other concerned authorities ensures the safety and longevity of the structure.
If you wish to learn more about roof construction and roof replacement services, feel free to get in touch with the Plano, TX, roofing experts at Triumph Roofing for a no-obligation consultation.
