High winds and extreme weather are becoming more frequent in many parts of the country, putting greater pressure on homeowners to choose building materials that can stand up to the elements. While roofs and windows often get the spotlight for storm protection, finding wind-resistant siding is just as important. Damaged siding can lead to water intrusion, structural issues, and costly repairs — not to mention a major drop in curb appeal.
Some siding materials are prone to cracking, warping, or tearing away under pressure, while others are built to withstand nature’s harshest tests. Learn all about wind-resistant siding to keep your home protected before the next storm rolls through.
What Is Wind-Resistant Siding?
When shopping for siding, homeowners in high-wind or storm-prone areas prioritize materials that can stand up to the elements, especially strong winds. There is no one single siding labeled as wind-resistant, but the ability to withstand high wind speeds, flying debris, and pressure changes is built into the design of durable siding options available today.
The wind resistance of a type of home siding comes down to two core factors:
- Material strength and impact resistance: Some siding materials naturally offer better resistance to cracking, breaking, or denting during high winds and storms.
- Secure installation systems: A siding panel is only as good as its attachment. Interlocking designs, reinforced nailing hems, and strong fasteners help siding stay put in severe weather by preventing wind uplift and panel detachment.
What happens if siding can’t handle strong winds? A few common problems that wreak havoc on a home’s exterior if the siding isn’t up to the task include:
- Panel blow-offs: Poorly secured siding may be pulled off entirely by strong gusts.
- Cracking and splintering: Hail or flying debris can strike siding during storms, leading to damage if the material lacks impact resistance.
- Warping or buckling: Lightweight materials like thin vinyl can sometimes warp in high winds or when temperature fluctuations cause expansion and contraction.
- Moisture intrusion: Once siding is damaged, wind-driven rain can seep in, causing potential rot or mold behind the walls.
While all homeowners benefit from durable siding, wind-resistant performance is crucial in areas prone to hurricanes, coastal storms, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms. Even areas with exposed terrain, such as hilltops or open farmland, that have little natural wind protection are susceptible to wind damage. Many of the windiest cities in the country are in Texas due to the flat land and lack of wind protection.
Common Siding Materials and Their Wind Resistance
Not all siding materials offer the same level of protection in high-wind conditions. Here’s how the most common siding materials stack up when it comes to wind resistance, durability, and repair costs.
Steel Siding
Steel siding is the most wind-resistant and durable siding choice available. As a heavy material, it effectively prevents wind uplift, even during hurricane-force winds. Steel cladding also doesn’t crack, warp, or swell, holding its shape and staying securely in place through years of exposure to harsh weather.
TruLog’s steel siding has a Class 4 impact rating, which handles the highest level of impact resistance. Water damage is common following severe weather, and steel’s moisture resistance adds further peace of mind.
Fiber Cement Siding
Fiber cement siding is a sturdy, dense material that’s a solid option for storm-prone areas. The material offers strong resistance to wind uplift and flying debris. However, fiber cement can crack if struck hard and may absorb moisture over time if not properly sealed.
Vinyl Siding
Vinyl is one of the most commonly used siding materials because it’s affordable and low maintenance. However, it falls short in offering quality wind resistance compared to metal siding.
Vinyl, especially lightweight options, can peel away, warp, or crack in high wind speeds. While some thicker premium products are rated for higher wind speeds, vinyl remains vulnerable to blow-offs and impact damage. Replacing panels may be inexpensive, but frequent damage leads to higher costs over the long term.
Engineered Wood Siding
Engineered wood siding delivers a balance of durability and aesthetic appeal, offering better wind resistance than vinyl. When properly installed and maintained, composite wood is fairly resilient in high winds. However, it’s vulnerable to moisture intrusion, which can lead to swelling, rot, and deterioration.
How to Protect Siding From High Winds
In regions prone to extreme weather, protecting your home’s siding from high winds should be part of your regular storm prep routine. Strong winds from hurricanes, tropical storms, and tornadoes can easily damage siding, especially if it’s aged, loosely installed, or made of less durable materials.
Here are a few proactive steps homeowners can take to minimize the risk of wind-related siding damage.
1. Secure Loose Panels and Fasteners
Before storm season arrives, walk around your home and inspect the siding for any loose or damaged panels, especially around corners and edges. It’s common for nails or clips to loosen over time on vinyl and engineered wood siding, creating weak spots where wind can gain a foothold. Reinforce or replace any questionable fasteners and reseat loose panels to reduce the risk of blow-off during high winds.
2. Trim Back Trees and Remove Debris
Flying debris is one of the leading causes of siding damage during storms. Overhanging tree branches, lawn furniture, and other unsecured objects can become airborne and strike your siding with significant force. Clearing the yard and trimming trees helps prevent costly repairs.
3. Install Storm Shutters or Wind Barriers
In areas frequently hit by hurricanes, like coastal Florida or the Gulf Coast, consider using storm shutters or temporary wind barriers to protect large sections of siding. While more common for windows, storm panels can also shield siding areas exposed to intense wind gusts.
4. Consider Material-Specific Maintenance
Depending on your siding material, you may need to perform a few maintenance tasks ahead of hurricane season. Steel is a low-maintenance siding option and is ready to protect your home before storms. But here’s what you’ll want to do if you have another siding material:
- Fiber cement siding: Ensure all edges are sealed to prevent moisture penetration.
- Vinyl siding: Check for warping or brittleness. Replace any cracked panels before the storm hits.
- Engineered wood siding: Reapply sealant or paint regularly to maintain water resistance.
5. Upgrade Siding When Necessary
If your current siding has suffered repeated storm damage, it may be time to upgrade or replace your siding. Steel siding offers long-term durability and requires less storm prep, making it ideal for homeowners in high-risk areas.
Common Questions About Wind-Resistant Siding
You want to ensure you have the best protection for your home during the next storm. So, if you have more questions about wind-resistant siding, here are answers to commonly asked questions.
What Siding Is Best for High Winds?
The best siding for high wind areas is steel siding, which holds up well against cracking, warping, and blow-off during high wind events. While fiber cement and engineered wood offer moderate wind resistance, steel stands out for its strength and longevity. Homeowners in coastal, tornado-prone, or hurricane-risk zones benefit most from steel siding’s superior wind performance.
What Is the Most Durable Siding for Storms?
Steel siding is the most durable option for storms, offering exceptional resistance to wind, rain, hail, and flying debris. Unlike materials that can absorb moisture or crack under pressure, steel maintains its structural integrity, even in extreme weather conditions. TruLog steel siding has a Class 4 impact rating.
What Is the Best Hurricane-Resistant Siding?
Steel is the best hurricane-resistant siding. Hurricanes bring high wind speeds, heavy rain, and airborne debris, all of which can damage traditional siding materials like vinyl or engineered wood.
Steel Siding Offers the Best Wind Resistance for Homeowners
When protecting your home from high winds and harsh storms, steel siding stands above the rest. Its unmatched durability and resistance to warping or blow-off make it ideal for homeowners in storm-prone areas.
Download TruLog’s steel siding catalog to explore styles, colors, and performance features built for extreme weather.
