Roof Wind Ratings Explained: What ASTM Labels Mean for Your Home
In New Mexico’s high-wind regions, from the East Mountains and Albuquerque foothills to the open mesas near Santa Fe, roof wind ratings are a critical factor that determines how well your home can withstand wind speeds and storms. Every year, heavy winds, rain, and flying debris put local roofs to the test.
Understanding wind ratings helps homeowners choose the right roofing materials and make smarter roofing decisions. In this guide, you’ll learn why wind ratings matter, what ASTM labels like D3161 and D7158 mean, and how testing methods and installation quality affect long-term performance.
You’ll also learn how to interpret wind uplift ratings, local building codes, and warranties for asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and TPO systems.
Understanding Roof Wind Ratings, Design Loads, and Warranties
A roof wind rating reflects how much wind pressure and uplift forces your roof deck and roof edges can resist before significant damage occurs. These ratings are typically measured through standardized tests developed by Underwriters Laboratories and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
While roof wind ratings show tested performance, design wind loads (defined in ASCE 7) factor in exposure, height, and construction materials. Meanwhile, warranty “mph” claims relate to how well the roof system was installed.
For instance, FM 1-90 does not mean a roof can withstand 90 mph winds. Instead, it indicates the system can resist 90 pounds per square foot (psf) of uplift pressure.
These distinctions between wind uplift, wind speeds, and warranty coverage are essential for understanding wind ratings correctly.
Asphalt Shingle Wind Ratings: ASTM D3161 vs. ASTM D7158
ASTM D3161 (Fan Test): Classes A, D, and F
ASTM D3161 uses a fan-induced method to simulate wind blowing across a roof at constant speed. This testing method evaluates how shingles resist being lifted or blown off the roof deck.
The standard defines three shingle wind ratings:
- Class A shingles: up to 60 mph
- Class D shingles: up to 90 mph
- Class F shingles: up to 110 mph
These asphalt shingles are ideal for homeowners who want dependable wind resistance against storms and hail. However, curled shingles, poor fastening methods, or old roofing materials can weaken uplift resistance even on high-rated products.
ASTM D7158 (Uplift and Pressure Test): Classes D, G, and H
ASTM D7158 takes things further by measuring uplift pressure and calculating equivalent design wind speeds.
- Class D ≈ 115 mph
- Class G ≈ 150 mph
- Class H ≈ 190 mph
This testing method better reflects real-world conditions and the maximum wind speed a roof can withstand before panels or shingles lift. Architectural shingles and impact-resistant shingles often meet higher classifications, offering better wind resistance and fire resistance than older 3-tab shingles.
What to Look for on Shingle Packaging
Premium asphalt shingles often carry both D3161 Class F and D7158 Class H wind uplift ratings. Still, those numbers only apply when installation quality meets manufacturer standards. Correct nailing, sealing, and starter strip placement are crucial.
Improper fastening can leave a roof susceptible to blown shingles or wind damage during storms or hurricane season.
Metal Roofing Wind Ratings and Uplift Testing
Metal roofing systems are tested differently, using standards such as ASTM E1592 and UL 580 to measure how panels and fasteners perform under uplift forces and wind pressure. Additional standards like UL 1897 and FM 4474 help evaluate how well panels remain attached to the roof deck during extreme wind events.
Metal panels can achieve high wind ratings when installed properly with correct clip spacing and fastening methods. Panel gauge, construction quality, and wall or edge detailing all contribute to overall wind uplift performance.
Because New Mexico experiences high winds and flying debris, metal roofing is a durable, energy-efficient, and long-lasting choice for both homes and commercial buildings. Homeowners should confirm that local building codes recognize the system’s wind-rated roofing certification before installation.
TPO and Flat Roof Wind Ratings (FM and ASCE 7 Design)
TPO and other flat roofing systems use FM Global test ratings, such as FM 1-90, 1-105, or 1-120, to measure uplift resistance per square foot of pressure. These tests simulate the uplift forces a flat roof system may face during storms or hurricanes.
ASCE 7 defines design wind speeds and exposure zones for different buildings. The combination of these factors, along with fastening methods, insulation attachment, and perimeter detailing, determines the system’s final wind uplift rating.
Flat roofs on commercial buildings in New Mexico’s elevated areas, like Santa Fe or Sandia Park, often need higher-rated assemblies to withstand wind speeds and better wind resistance over time.
Roof Edge Securement and Why It Matters (ANSI/SPRI/FM 4435/ES-1)
Even a well-installed roof system can fail when the roof edges are not properly secured. Studies show most wind damage begins at these critical areas, where uplift pressure is greatest.
The ES-1 standard, referenced by both the International Building Code and International Residential Code, defines minimum fastener spacing, metal thickness, and attachment strength for edge flashings. ES-1 compliant edge metal helps prevent significant damage and water intrusion during high winds.
Using these securement standards is especially important for commercial buildings or homes with low-slope roofs that are more susceptible to wind uplift and debris impacts.
Choosing the Right Roof System for New Mexico Winds
Asphalt Shingles
For New Mexico’s high wind and hail conditions, select architectural shingles rated D3161 Class F and D7158 Class H for high wind resistance. Proper sealing and fastening ensure your shingles can withstand wind speeds and uplift pressure during storms.
Metal Roofing
Choose metal roofing systems tested under ASTM E1592 or FM 4474, with secure clip spacing and adequate fastener design for your particular area. These systems provide better wind resistance, fire resistance, and long-term durability.
TPO or Low-Slope Roofing
Use FM-rated assemblies (for example, FM 1-90) to match uplift pressure and wind speeds in your region. Confirm compliance with building codes and add ES-1 edge metal to protect roof edges from being lifted or blown off.
If you’re planning a roof replacement or new roof, make sure your contractor understands these several factors that determine a roof’s wind resistance and longevity.
East Mountain Roofing installs TPO, metal, and asphalt shingles that are designed to handle New Mexico’s winds, rain, and hail. To request a detailed estimate or schedule a free roof inspection, fill out our contact form and make sure your home is ready for the next storm.
Schedule a Free Wind-Readiness Roof Inspection Today
Before the next storm or hurricane season, find out whether your roof meets the correct wind rating for your location. East Mountain Roofing’s local team inspects, documents, and provides free estimates for upgrades that improve wind coverage, resistance, and performance.
Our experts live and work right here in Central New Mexico, so we understand exactly how local wind and weather affect your roof. Let’s make sure your home is ready for the next big gust. Call (505) 264-7081, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., to schedule your free inspection.