In December 2017, a media advisory from the New Zealand Insurance Council (NZIC) revealed that 2017 was the worst year on record for weather-related losses (BUILD Issue 165, April/May 2018). Wind damage to roofs can be costly to repair, let alone the consequential damage from water ingress as a result. The best defence against such an unfortunate event is ensuring the chosen roofing product is durable enough to withstand the elements the property is exposed to.

New Zealand buildings are frequently subjected to some tough climatic extremes; especially high winds. Probably the most important wall of a building is the ‘fifth’ wall, the one that faces the sky. Wind creates stress on buildings and these need to be constructed to withstand both horizontal pressure and suction (uplift).

Wind zones in New Zealand are categorised in ‘NZS 3604’ which is a document published by Standards New Zealand. There are six official categories of wind zone: Low, Medium, High, Very High, Extra High and ‘Specific Design’ (over 200km/hr). The wind zone within which a property is situated not only determines what materials should be specified, but also the methodology of installation. These criteria are vital.

100 years of development in extreme conditions has led to some of Viking CertainTeed asphalt shingle profiles being resistant to 205km/h when installed to specific fixing specifications. This wind speed is typical of a Category 5 storm.

Due to their robust performance in high winds, sea-spray and locations of temperature extremes, the premium profiles of Viking CertainTeed shingles; namely the ‘Highland Slate’ and ‘Presidential Shake’ profiles have a Viking Roofspec product warranty of 50 years. These asphalt shingles are commonly used in stunning locations found in remote coastal and inland parts of New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

Having said all of this, installation professionalism is of paramount importance. Viking Roofspec distribute materials through their licensed network of installers. Their knowledge, experience and training will ensure the shingle fixing methodology matches wind zone requirements. More importantly, the craftsmanship is to the high standard expected by Viking’s Technical department.