As extreme weather conditions become more prevalent than ever, the need for durable and weather-resistant building materials has never been more in demand than it is today. Whether for a new construction or renovation project, choosing materials that can withstand extreme climates is critical for your business to avoid costly repairs and closure.
Heavy winds and disastrous floods can wreak havoc on even the sturdiest building since these weather events are far stronger now than they once were. The repercussions of neglecting repairs and purchasing low-quality materials can cost you a considerable amount of money and put the building occupant’s safety at risk.
Continue reading below to find the most effective weather-resistant materials that you need to protect your livelihood and increase the resilience of your building.
- Moisture Resistant Insulation
Insulation is an essential feature in every structure, whether residential or commercial. Without proper insulation, expect to receive inflated energy bills every month since there is no way to trap conditioned and heated air. In addition, there is less comfort inside the building since you can feel the hot or cold temperature outside.
The two most popular types of insulation are Expanded Polystyrene Insulation (EPS) and Extruded Polystyrene Insulation (XPS). Although they are assembled from similar base materials, they vary in how they are manufactured.
EPS is produced using steam and molds to expand the polystyrene, while XPS insulation utilizes heat and an extruding machine to build the insulation sheets.
- Hail-Resistant Roofing
If your commercial building resides in an area prone to hail storms, you understand the amount of devastation it can cause to your property. Even small hailstones are capable enough of causing extensive damage to your roof by knocking the shingles off and exposing the mat underneath the roof.
Don’t hesitate in installing impact-resistant roofing shingles that can withstand hail damage and strong winds during a storm. Be critical of the features of the resistant shingles that you purchase, as the item should have a Class 4 rating, which is an acceptable level for any roofing material that can hold out against storm winds.
In most cases, you can also install metal tiles with stone coating. Not only are they impact-resistant, but they are also durable and long-lasting. They can overcome strong winds, hail damage, and excessive rain without affecting the roof’s interior components.
- Fluid-Applied Flashing
When it comes to flood-prone areas, it is crucial to properly seal windows and install exterior access doors and panels to ensure that the water will not flow inside the building. Due to the rise of sea levels, the devastation brought by floods is at an all-time high. There are several ways to condition your facility for any flood that it might encounter, but one way of securing your property is by using fluid-applied flashing.
Fluid-applied flashing can significantly improve your building’s resilience by assuring continuous coverage around the doors, windows, and openings within the walls and ceiling. It can protect you from any possible damage caused by minor leaks.
It would be a smart business move to use this application before the next storm season to address flash penetrations and seal them properly.
- Impact-Resistant Windows
Glass windows and doors are commonly a source of concern during major weather events such as typhoons and hurricanes. Low-quality glass can easily shatter and cause injury, and it can also leave your business vulnerable to the elements and unauthorized access.
Prioritize the safety of everyone by installing impact-resistant windows designed with an inner layer of protection to keep the unit intact in the event of a storm. What’s unique about these windows is that although the glass may still crack when hit with a sizeable impact, it won’t shatter—no need to worry about shattered glass all over and smashed windows during the winter.
- Fiber Cement Siding
Although this material is ideal for homes, small-scale businesses can also benefit from fiber cement siding since they are impact, moisture, and fire-resistant. Unlike wood siding, you don’t have to worry about losing its paint during hail or high winds, and it will not warp or swell.
The fiber cement siding is also fade and chip resistant and effectively resisting damage from impact and strong winds. It comes in various styles and designs, such as lap siding and architectural panels. Regardless of the overall design of your property, you are sure to find a compatible fiber cement siding to suit your needs.
- Concrete Framing
It is better to fortify the structure with concrete framing for stick-built properties and wood frames, especially if you live in an extreme weather area.
Insulated concrete forms (ICF) and poured concrete are becoming the top choice for framing since they are stronger and more resilient to harsh climates. They are also more stable than wood frames and are moisture-resistant. You can also design both with other materials to achieve the style you want for your home.
There are also concrete framing and ICF blocks that can withstand earthquakes. They are significantly stronger than wood and resist cracking or splitting due to ground movement to ensure that your property can survive any condition.
- Building Envelope Sealant
Most people associate building envelopes with HVAC systems since the better the envelope sealant is, the less money you need to pay for monthly heating and energy costs. It goes hand in hand with insulation, but it also plays a critical role in protecting your property against harsh weather conditions. Technically, the areas you cover with the envelope are also the same place where flood and rainwater can get in.
There are many issues attributed to a wrong building envelope, and the best way to resolve this is by applying sealant around doors and windows. Ensure that you follow the necessary steps to create a reliable envelope to help storm-proof your business.
- Pressure-Treated Wood
It’s a known fact that lumber is one of the most commonly used construction materials. It is an ideal choice for scorching and cold conditions and a poor conductor of heat. However, its major drawback is that the material is susceptible to decay and moisture.
To reduce the disadvantages of using wood, choose pressure-treated lumber. Using chemical preservatives and pressurization makes the wood more durable and can withstand decay, moisture, insect infestation, and water penetration, making it ideal for weather resistance.
The Bottomline
Weather resistance is slowly becoming an integral part of the construction industry. Anyone who has a building or remodeling project should consider using weather-resistant building materials to help them become prepared for any natural disasters that could occur in the future.
The unpredictable nature of our climate necessitated the production of various types of resilient materials that can help fortify your home or building’s exterior against strong elements. It is wise to invest in these materials rather than become complacent and face the consequences of not being prepared when calamity comes.