There are plenty of advantages to living in sunny Southwest Florida — but it’s also a prime location for tropical storms and hurricanes. When you live in an area that’s prone to extreme weather, it pays to keep your home well-prepared.
In this blog post, we’ll list the essential steps for protecting your home’s roof against severe weather and share some tips for dealing with damage to your roof in the aftermath of a hurricane or other extreme weather event.
How to Hurricane Proof Your Roof for Extreme Weather?
Here are a few of the best steps you can take to prepare your roof for severe weather:
1. Inspect Your Roof
Start by scheduling a comprehensive roof inspection to prepare for hurricane season. A professional roofing service can identify any existing issues and recommend necessary repairs to fortify your roof against severe weather.
2. Secure or Replace Loose Shingles
Loose or damaged shingles can quickly become dangerous projectiles during a storm. Secure any loose shingles and replace damaged ones to prevent flying objects during high winds, as well as to prevent leaks and further damage.
3. Trim Nearby Trees
Overhanging branches pose a significant risk to your roof during hurricanes. Trim any nearby trees to reduce the risk of falling branches and debris damaging your roof or property during a storm
4. Get Roof Straps Installed
Consider having roof straps installed to reinforce your roof’s structural integrity. Roof straps help your roof to better withstand strong winds and heavy rain.
What to Do If Your Roof Is Damaged in a Storm
No matter how well you prepare, sometimes damage to your roof becomes unavoidable during especially severe storms. Here are some tips to help you navigate this unfortunate scenario:
1. Safety First
After the storm has passed, prioritize your and your family’s safety. Assess any roof damage from the ground first and avoid getting onto your roof until it’s safe to do so. If you notice structural damage, contact a professional immediately.
2. Temporary Repairs
If you find minor roof damage like missing shingles, you can make temporary repairs yourself to prevent further issues in the short-term. Tarping and patching are good options until a professional roofer can assess the full extent of the damage.
3. Document the Damage
Take photos of any damaged areas of your roof for insurance claims, and keep all receipts from temporary repairs. Your homeowner’s insurance may cover some or all of the costs associated with the damage.
Veteran's Roofing USA - Your Local Roofing Solutions In Southwest Florida
At Veteran’s Roofing USA, we understand the unique challenges that Southwest Florida homeowners face when it comes to extreme weather. Our team of experts is here to help you prepare your roof for hurricane season and take care of all your roof repair needs.