Florida homeowners know the drill: September is peak hurricane season. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) tracks storm activity every year, and in their 2024 outlook, they noted that the Atlantic hurricane season produces an average of 14 named storms, 7 hurricanes, and 3 major hurricanes annually. With a storm off the coast and high winds always a possibility, misinformation about roofing circulates quickly. At Superior One Roofing, our mission is to help you separate fact from fiction — because when it comes to protecting your home, the wrong assumptions can be costly.
Myth 1: A new roof is hurricane-proof.
The truth: A new roof is not automatically stormproof unless it’s installed with the right products and practices. Research shows that applying adhesives to sheathing can increase uplift resistance fivefold, but only if done correctly (NOAA study).
- How we do it: At Superior One Roofing, we install GAF Timberline HDZ® shingles with LayerLock® technology. When combined with qualifying accessories, homeowners qualify for GAF’s WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty — the first in the industry with no maximum wind speed limit.
- Why it matters: Even if your roof was replaced recently, if it wasn’t installed with high-wind-rated materials or to Florida Building Code standards, it may still be vulnerable.
Myth 2: Metal roofs never get damaged.
The truth: Many homeowners believe that any metal roof makes them 100% safe in a hurricane. While it’s true that metal roofing is one of the strongest options available, performance comes down to engineering, installation, and warranty-backed protection.
- Why others fail: Some metal roofs use thinner panels, improper fasteners, or aren’t installed to Florida Building Code. In those cases, even a “metal roof” can fail under hurricane-force winds.
- Why ours succeed: At Superior One Roofing, we install Tri County Metals’ hurricane-rated systems, tested for wind speeds up to 150 mph. Their Platinum 45 Warranty offers decades of coverage, and their Core Defender Paint System ensures long-term durability against Florida’s harsh sun and salt air.
- The bottom line: Metal roofs can be damaged — but when you choose the right system, the right process, and the right team, you get the full benefit of metal’s strength with warranties that back it for the long haul.
Myth 3: Insurance will cover everything.
The truth: Homeowners are often surprised to find gaps in their policies. Insurers can deny claims if damage stems from neglect or pre-existing issues.
- Inspections help: A pre-storm inspection documents your roof’s condition. This record proves maintenance and strengthens your claim.
- Warranty support: Warranties like GAF’s WindProven and TCM’s Platinum 45 can also complement your insurance, ensuring that both product and workmanship are backed for decades.
Myth 4: Blue tarps are just as good as repairs.
The truth: Tarps are temporary and deteriorate quickly in Florida’s sun and humidity. Prolonged reliance on tarps allows water intrusion, mold, and structural damage.
- Better solution: Address the damage promptly with permanent repairs using manufacturer-backed systems. For example, GAF Lifetime Roofing Systems offer comprehensive coverage on shingles and accessories when installed as a system.
Myth 5: Only coastal homes are at risk.
The truth: Hurricanes don’t only impact waterfront areas. Hurricane Ian in 2022 caused widespread damage well inland, with NIST documenting failures to roof coverings and soffit assemblies hundreds of miles from landfall.
Hurricane myths may be common, but the risks are real. Protecting your home requires knowledge, quality materials, and expert installation. At Superior One Roofing, we install GAF and Tri County Metals systems engineered for hurricane performance and backed by warranties that matter.
👉 Schedule your free inspection today to ensure your roof is ready for whatever this season brings.