During severe storms, your roof plays an important role in safeguarding your property and preserving the safety of your loved ones. Proactively preparing hurricane proof roofing can lessen the chance of damage and boost your home’s ability to resist high winds and heavy rains.
Following a storm, a properly maintained roof can determine whether you face minor damage or incur significant repair expenses. Equipped with the right knowledge and readiness, you can proactively maintain your roof, minimizing damage and disruptions throughout the year, particularly when storm season arrives.
Seven Steps to Take to Hurricane Proof Your Home’s Roof
It’s essential to follow effective techniques to set up the strongest roof for a hurricane that might limit the potential damage caused by strong winds and heavy rainfalls. As a property owner, you must prepare your roofs and buildings by following these steps.
Do A Proper Roof Inspection
Hire a qualified roofing contractor to inspect your roof at least once a year, preferably before storm season begins. Addressing issues ahead of time can help prevent further damage during a storm.
Experienced roofing experts can discover any existing problems (loose or missing shingles, weak spots, broken flashing, or other concerns that could make your roof vulnerable during a storm) and ensure your roof is in good shape.
Regular roof inspections and maintenance can assist in guaranteeing that your roof is in pristine condition to withstand the difficulties of hurricanes.
Repair Already Damaged Areas
If the inspection finds any damage or problems with your roof, please solve them as soon as possible. Ignoring minor issues may result in more severe issues when a hurricane is on the loose.
You should replace missing or broken shingles quickly and ensure the correct attachment. Using the proper roofing sealant to fill gaps or cracks can increase structural integrity. Repair damaged flashing and seal leaks to ensure your roof stays well-maintained.
Trim Trees and Overhanging Branches
Trees and branches can be dangerous during a storm, especially if they are close to your home’s roof. Overhanging branches can scratch and damage the roof or snap and fall on it, inflicting severe damage.
Removing dead, weak, or overhanging branches from trees surrounding the building is critical to lessen the potential for damage. This keeps them from becoming projectiles in severe winds and reduces the risk of roof damage.
Clear Gutters and Drain Systems
Clogged gutters can cause water buildup, which may penetrate your roof and cause leaks. So, you should check that your gutters and drains are clear of debris, leaves, and branches.
Clean your gutters before hurricane season to guarantee optimum drainage amid heavy rain. This maintenance should be done regularly to allow water to flow freely away from the roof.
Keep Loose Objects Safe
During a hurricane, loose materials such as HVAC equipment or trash can blow away and cause significant damage. As a result, it is critical to secure or anchor these objects before a storm strikes appropriately. This will keep them from becoming projectiles and damaging the roof, windows, or other structure sections.
Any rooftop equipment, like satellite dishes, antennas, or solar panels, must be inspected and secured. Make sure they are securely anchored or braced to avoid becoming flying projectiles during heavy winds.
Reinforce Roof Sheathing & Roofing Materials
The roof deck, aka the sheathing, is the foundation for the roofing materials. Improving the overall stability of your roof requires strengthening the sheathing. You can anchor the roof deck to the underlying structure with hurricane straps or clips. And during heavy winds, these metal connectors keep the roof from rising.
Consider upgrading your roofing materials to increase their impact resistance for a hurricane-proof roof. During hurricanes, impact-resistant shingles are designed to withstand the impact of flying debris. This material is less likely to be damaged or dislodged, providing your home with additional protection.
If your roof is older or shows signs of significant damage, consider a total replacement with hurricane-resistant materials. Carefully constructed asphalt shingles, for example, can significantly boost the resilience of your home.
Hire Experienced Roofing Contractors
Proactive repair methods can prevent minor problems from developing and spreading, saving money and preventing structural damage.
Trust competent and respected roofing contractors with the installation or repair of your roof. Proper installation practices are critical for maintaining your roof’s lifespan and resilience. Before hiring, check their licenses, read reviews, and request references to ensure they fit well.
For your property’s maximum safety, proactively prepare your roof for hurricane season by contacting a reputable contractor like Jack C. Wilson Roofing Co. We’re Northeast Florida’s oldest roofing contractor (or longest operating roofing contractor), having repaired and replaced roofs following every storm since 1946. So contact our team and let us help you hurricane-proof your roof.
