High Winds
High Winds | Metal Roofing | Roofing | Kingsport
When the Appalachian gusts whip across Kingsport, you want a roof that laughs at 70-mph winds instead of rattling beneath them. HEP’s high-winds solution delivers precisely that resilience through premium metal roofing—panels engineered to interlock tight, shed water fast, and shrug off debris. Every seam, fastener, and ridge cap is installed by our certified crews who know the local wind patterns as well as they know their tools, so you can feel secure when the next storm rolls over Bays Mountain.
Beyond sheer strength, our metal systems bring year-round perks: a sleek curb appeal that never fades, a reflective finish that trims cooling bills, and a 40-year paint warranty backed by a family-owned company that’s been serving East Tennessee for decades. From free storm-damage inspections to hassle-free financing, HEP makes upgrading simple—because peace of mind should come standard with every shingle-free sheet we install.
FAQs
How does metal roofing perform in the high-wind conditions we often see in Kingsport?
Properly engineered metal panels are interlocked and fastened to the roof deck, creating a continuous, rigid surface that resists uplift far better than individual shingles. In wind-tunnel testing and field performance, quality metal systems routinely withstand gusts of 140–170 mph—well above the peak winds recorded in Kingsport during severe thunderstorms or the outer bands of a tropical system. In addition, the large sheet sizes mean fewer seams and edges for wind to grab, and modern concealed-fastener designs prevent wind-driven rain from getting underneath the panels.
What official wind ratings or building codes do your metal roofs meet or exceed?
Our standing-seam and metal shingle products carry UL 580 Class 90 and UL 1897 uplift ratings and meet the 2018 International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) requirements enforced by the City of Kingsport. For most neighborhoods in Sullivan and Hawkins counties, that means the roof is approved for 130 mph three-second-gust design wind speeds. If your property is in an exposed ridge or open field location, we can upgrade to fastening patterns and clip systems that comply with the 155 mph "C-Zone" of ASCE 7-16.
Will a high-wind-rated metal roof lower my homeowners insurance premiums?
Many carriers that write policies in East Tennessee offer wind-hail or fortified-roof discounts when you install a metal system with documented uplift testing. Because metal roofing minimizes both wind damage and the secondary water intrusion that often follows, insurers see a reduced risk of claims. Customers in Kingsport typically save 5–20 percent per year, depending on the company and the specific rating of the roof. We supply all certification paperwork and photographs your insurer may request so you receive every available discount.
Can I leave my existing asphalt shingles in place when upgrading to a wind-resistant metal roof?
Often, yes. Local code allows one layer of shingles to remain if the decking is structurally sound, the roof plane is flat, and fastening requirements can still be met. Our installers add a synthetic high-temperature underlayment that seals around fasteners, then use extra-long screws that penetrate through the shingle layer and minimum ¾" into solid wood. Removing the old material may be recommended, however, if there are soft spots in the decking, excessive weight, or if you want the highest achievable wind rating.
How long will a metal roof last compared with traditional shingles in a windy climate?
Premium architectural shingles are rated for 25–30 years but frequently lose tabs or granules after 10–15 years of wind exposure, requiring spot repairs or early replacement. A 24- or 26-gauge steel roof with a Kynar 500 finish routinely delivers 50+ years of service, even on ridges and waterfront properties that see the strongest gusts. The panels will not curl, crack, or blow off, and the baked-on paint retains its color for decades, so long-term lifecycle cost is roughly half that of two full shingle replacements.
What maintenance is required to keep my metal roof performing well against strong winds?
Metal roofing is largely maintenance-free, but a quick annual inspection is smart. Look for and tighten any exposed fasteners, clear leaves or limbs from valleys, and verify that ridge caps and flashing remain seated. After an extreme wind event, walk the perimeter of your home with binoculars to confirm panels appear flat with no lifted edges. Because the panels are coated steel or aluminum, they will not degrade under UV exposure, and routine cleaning with a garden hose is all that is needed to keep the finish looking new.