From hurricanes to heavy snow to scorching heat, metal buildings are engineered to handle extreme weather conditions across America. Here is how they perform when Mother Nature gets serious.
One of the most common questions we hear is, "How will a metal building hold up in a storm?" The answer depends on several factors — the building's engineering, the quality of the steel, the anchoring method, and how well the building was installed. A properly engineered and installed metal building performs remarkably well in extreme weather.
Metal buildings can be engineered to withstand wind speeds of 170 mph and higher — well above the threshold for a Category 5 hurricane. The key is proper engineering certification for your specific location. Coastal areas and hurricane zones require higher wind load ratings, stronger connections, and more robust anchoring than inland locations.
In our experience, metal buildings that fail in high winds almost always share one of two problems: they were not properly engineered for their location, or they were not properly anchored. When both the engineering and installation are done right, metal buildings are among the most wind-resistant structures available.
Snow accumulation puts downward pressure on the roof, measured in pounds per square foot. Metal buildings in northern states and mountain areas are engineered for snow loads ranging from 30 to 80+ psf, depending on the region. Vertical roof panels are especially effective in heavy snow areas because the vertical orientation allows snow to slide off the roof rather than accumulating.
Metal conducts heat, so an uninsulated metal building can get uncomfortably hot in direct summer sun. However, this is easily addressed with a few strategies:
Hailstones can dent metal panels, particularly thinner 29-gauge roof panels. While cosmetic denting does not typically affect the structural integrity or weatherproofing of the building, it can be unsightly. Thicker 26-gauge panels are more resistant to hail damage and are available as an upgrade option.
A common misconception is that metal buildings attract lightning. In reality, metal is no more likely to be struck by lightning than any other building material. However, if a metal building is struck, the metal frame actually conducts the electrical charge safely to the ground, reducing the risk of fire — a significant safety advantage over wood-frame structures.
Every building we sell is engineer-certified for your specific location's weather requirements. Call 833-722-7678 to discuss the conditions in your area.