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 to strengthen the structure of your property, it is essential to comply with the Texas Windstorm Building Code. This blog post discusses the basic roofing requirements of the building code that homeowners and roof replacement companies need to adhere to, during roof replacement and construction, by answering six commonly asked questions on the subject. Let’s begin.

1. What are the roof options for residential construction?

Texas experiences two severe weather conditions i.e. hail and high winds. Though homeowners have several options to choose from, asphalt shingles is the most common roofing material 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 the compliance on the wrapper of the shingles.

2. Which type of underlayment to install?

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 felt is required. The roofer needs to install the felt as per the instruction of the building code or the shingles manufacturer.

3. Which type of roofing nails to use for installing shingles?

Only galvanized steel or stainless steel roofing nails with a minimum 12 gauge shank and 3/8” diameter head are permitted for shingles 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 roofer needs to follow the instruction given by the manufacturer.

4. Is roofing permit essential? If yes, how to apply for it?

It is mandatory for any residential or commercial property in the state of Texas to have a roofing permit. The Federal Emergency Management Agency terms it as an important part of roof-replacement procedure and failure to obtain the permit could result in delayed construction or fines. You need to check with official city or county building codes to get a roofing permit before starting any remodeling project.

5. Can you skip the high-wind inspection part?

If any Texas home or business owner is eligible for a windstorm insurance, it is mandatory that the roof undergoes a high-wind inspection before remodeling. The Federal Emergency Management Agency ensures that either a TDI Windstorm Inspector or Texas-licensed professional engineer who is certified as a qualified windstorm inspector performs the inspection. The inspector observes the construction process and approves the finished product at the end. This is an essential measure, especially for all the Texas coastal counties.

6. How to get discounts on roofing construction?

If you wish to qualify for an impact-resistant roofing material discount, 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-resistant test. In addition, you can speak to your contractor to find out if they also have any discount schemes for their customers.

Last Few Words

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 ow more about roof construction and roof replacement services, feel free to get in touch with the roofing experts at Triumph Roofing and Construction for a no on-obligation consultation.