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Texas Hurricane Roofing Checklist: The Ultimate Guide for Facility Managers
Is your commercial roof ready for hurricane season?
Most aren’t—and the cost of being unprepared can be devastating.
Texas faces intense hurricane threats, especially in coastal cities like Houston, Corpus Christi, and inland areas such as San Antonio. For commercial buildings, the roof is the most vulnerable component.
According to FEMA, over 50% of hurricane-related structural damage begins with roofing system failures, often due to unsecured fasteners, compromised seams, and insufficient drainage systems. Once water or wind breaches the roofing envelope, internal pressure builds, escalating damage to walls, equipment, and infrastructure.
1. Wind Code Compliance & Windstorm Certification (TDI/WPI-8)
Ensure your roofing system complies with Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) windstorm requirements. Buildings in designated “Catastrophe Areas” must obtain a WPI-8 or WPI-8E Certificate of Compliance.
- Properties in TWIA zones (like the Gulf Coast) must meet certified wind-resistance standards.
- Without a WPI-8, insurance claims may be denied—even if damage occurs.
- TDI inspections are mandatory both before and after installation for certification.
2. Uplift Resistance (FM Global or UL Rated)
Confirm your roofing assembly is rated to resist uplift pressures.
- FM 1-90 or UL 580 Class 90 are the minimum standards in many hurricane-prone areas.
- High-risk facilities (e.g., schools, warehouses) may require ratings exceeding FM 1-90.
- These ratings simulate hurricane-level suction and are often required by insurers.
3. Perimeter Edge Anchoring
FEMA notes that most hurricane-related roof failures begin at the edges.
- Reinforce metal flashing, gutters, and fascia using FM-approved anchors.
- Welded or mechanically fastened edge systems help reduce peel-off during high winds.
- Use seismic-grade anchoring hardware where applicable.
4. Seam & Flashing Integrity
Inspect seams and flashing around penetrations like HVAC units, skylights, and wall transitions.
- Use high-grade sealants plus secondary waterproofing membranes or metal plates.
- These points are among the first to fail during extreme wind and rain.
5. Water Drainage & Ponding
Rainfall during hurricanes can overwhelm even functional roofs.
- Clean all drains, scuppers, and downspouts before hurricane season.
- Flat roofs with pooling increase the risk of collapse and severe leaks.
- Improve drainage slope with tapered insulation.
Roof Material & Age
• Asphalt/composite roofs older than 7–10 years face significantly higher failure rates.
• IBHS research shows older systems are 3x more likely to fail in hurricanes.
Consider:
o Metal panel systems for wind resistance
o Modified bitumen systems for water resistance
Insurance & Documentation Tips:
• TWIA coverage requires a valid WPI-8 certificate.
• For private insurers, provide:
o Wind uplift ratings
o Perimeter securement specs
o Roof inspection reports
o Installation records and material lifespan
• Well-documented systems may qualify for premium reductions or deductible waivers.
Designated Catastrophe Areas
https://www.tdi.texas.gov/wind/maps/index.html
ROOF SYSTEM VULNERABILITIES
RISK AREAS
HURRICANE READY (ROOF)
AT RISK (ROOF)
Seam Integrity
Edge Anchoring
Drainage Design
Roof Material
Welded seams + membrane
FM-approved metal anchoring
Tapered insulation, slope
Metal or Mod Bitumen
Caulk-only joints
Loose or nailed flashings
Flat roofs with ponding
Aging asphalt/composite
Preparing your commercial roof for hurricane season is not optional—it’s your first line of defense against catastrophic business loss. With TDI-certified compliance, durable materials, and proactive maintenance, facility managers can prevent millions in damage, reduce insurance costs, and protect long-term operations.
FW Walton is here to help.
Our team of experts specializes in hurricane-ready commercial roofing solutions across Texas and the Gulf Coast.
Download the Hurricane Roof Checklist
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