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1. Choose Wind-Rated Shingles Designed for Coastal Durability

Not all shingles are created equal. In coastal zones, you need shingles that are specifically engineered to resist wind uplift and shingle blow-off. Premium architectural or designer shingles can carry wind ratings of 130 mph or higher, depending on the manufacturer and installation method.

At Axiom Roofing, we carefully match each home’s exposure level to the appropriate shingle system. Beyond the product itself, we pay close attention to the installation technique—because even the best shingle won’t perform if it’s not installed precisely.

 

2. Fortified Flashing: The Unsung Hero of Weather Resistance

Flashings—those thin metal pieces that seal roof edges, valleys, and penetrations—are often the first line of defense against water intrusion. In high-wind or salt-air environments, standard flashing materials can corrode or lift.

We recommend stainless steel or heavy-gauge aluminum flashing, sealed with marine-grade adhesives to prevent rust and separation. As a top roofing contractor, our Axiom Roofing technicians custom-bend and fit each flashing component to your roof’s specific contours, ensuring no weak points where wind-driven rain can find its way in.

 

3. Hurricane Clips & Structural Reinforcements

Even in the Pacific Northwest, coastal storms can produce hurricane-force gusts. For homes in exposed areas—especially those perched along bluffs or shorelines—hurricane clips and roof-to-wall anchors are vital. These small but powerful connectors tie the roof deck to the home’s wall framing, distributing uplift forces across the structure.

When combined with a properly fastened deck and underlayment system, hurricane clips can dramatically reduce the risk of roof loss during extreme wind events.

 

4. The Axiom Advantage: Handnailing for Precision & Strength

Machine-driven nail guns may be fast, but when it comes to high-wind protection, nothing beats handnailing shingles. Every nail must be driven to an exact depth and angle to meet wind-rating specifications—and even slight inconsistencies can weaken the system.

At Axiom Roofing, we handnail every shingle, ensuring precise placement and optimal fastener tension. This technique creates a tighter, more uniform bond that resists wind uplift far better than mass-produced, gun-nailed roofs. It’s a level of craftsmanship that pays dividends when the next coastal storm rolls through.

 

5. Seal the Edges & Reinforce the Eaves

High winds love to attack the roof’s perimeter. That’s why edge protection is critical. We use high-bond starter strips and adhesive underlayments at all eaves and rakes, effectively gluing down the first course of shingles and sealing vulnerable areas where gusts can catch an edge.

This extra step, combined with handnailing, significantly improves your roof’s resistance to uplift and shingle loss.

 

6. Regular Coastal Roof Maintenance

Even the strongest roofing system benefits from consistent maintenance. Salt air, moss growth, and debris accumulation can shorten a roof’s lifespan if left unchecked. Our roof maintenance plans include annual inspections, gutter cleaning, and sealant checks—essential services for any homeowner near the water.

 

Building Coastal Roofs That Last

Whether you’re building a new waterfront home or reinforcing an existing one, Axiom Roofing delivers coastal-grade craftsmanship built for Washington’s toughest weather. With over 20 years of experience, our handnailing technique, premium materials, and commitment to precision make us the trusted residential roofing company for homeowners in King, Whatcom, Skagit, and Island Counties.

When the winds pick up, your roof shouldn’t be a worry—it should be your home’s strongest defense. Contact Axiom Roofing today to schedule a consultation or request a free estimate. We’ll help you design a roofing system that combines beauty, durability, and true coastal protection.