We all look forward to summer, but warm weather also signals the arrival of hurricane season.
Don’t get caught scrambling. Think about hurricane roof prep and general preparations before hurricane season starts.
Steps to prep your roof for hurricane season
One of the smartest moves you can make is to schedule a professional roof inspection at the beginning of the summer months. Southern National Roofing offers these inspections free of charge.
They will thoroughly examine your roof during the inspection to identify any damage or vulnerable spots. They will also:
- Check for loose, missing, or damaged shingles
- Bent flashing
- Examine the roof structure for signs of sagging or weakness
- An inspection of your attic for any signs of leaks or water entry
- Check all gutters and downspouts
After the inspection, any necessary steps to ensure your roof is in top shape for storm season will be outlined for your information, along with the next steps.
Homeowner prep
- Visually inspect your roof for any signs of damage
- Clear gutters and downspouts for proper water drainage
- Remove any debris from the roof
- Trim trees
- Compile a list of areas that need to be fixed or reinforced
Roof reinforcement tips
The key is to enhance your roof’s ability to withstand severe weather and high winds.
Storm prep roofing
Check to be sure your shingles are properly installed with the correct number of nails and their proper placement.
If you live in a hurricane-prone area, you can have a roofing contractor apply asphalt adhesive to the edges of your shingles to make them more wind-resistant.
If you are building a home or replacing your current roof, upgrade to impact-resistant roofing materials and a high-quality, waterproof underlayment to provide an extra layer of protection against water intrusion.
Hurricane straps are metal connectors that tie the roof to the trusses or rafters directly to the wall studs or top plates. This significantly increases wind resistance to lifting during high winds.
Strengthen vulnerable areas
- Reinforce roof flashing
- Secure gable ends with adequate bracing
- Protect skylights by replacing regular glass with impact-resistant glass
- Improve attic ventilation and insulation to help regulate moisture, decreasing stress on the roof
Professional help
A professional roofing contractor like Southern National Roofing has the experience and understanding of the weather in the Southeast. They understand reinforcement techniques and how to best secure your roof for the area you live in.
They possess the proper equipment and understand building codes related to wind mitigation to provide a plan that complies with the building codes in your area. They will also ensure that the work is performed correctly.
Cost vs. benefit
Preparing your roof for hurricane season may involve upfront costs, but it can save you substantial money in the long run.
Prepare your roof before hurricane season hits to increase the likelihood that your roof will withstand severe weather as effectively as possible.
