Your roofing system is in need of protection from the harsh months during hurricane season. Whether a tropical storm or a high level hurricane, your roof should be protected before the season begins to prevent any damage.

Following the hurricanes and storms of last year, surveys showed that 80% of the Florida homeowners who filed insurance claims had experienced some damage to their roofs. Additionally, roof damage can lead to future problems such as water damage and mold overgrowth.

What Causes A Roof To Fail?

Installation practices are often the reason that roofs do not perform. Failure of roofing systems usually results from vulnerability at the perimeter and punctures and tears from debris. The attachment to the deck most likely cannot resist the loads created when the perimeter securement fails, which leads to progressive loss of membrane coverage. If you can’t hold the edge down, no matter what kind of roof you have, the whole thing is going to come down.

Get a roof inspection

If you don’t know whether or not your roof can withstand the abuse of high winds and torrential rain, it’s time to schedule a roof inspection. In fact, where your most important investment is concerned, every homeowner should have a routine inspection as part of their hurricane preparedness plan.

Learn about Roof Tie-Downs

These truss tie-downs, often called “hurricane straps” help to brace the roof in very high winds and severe storms. They can help ensure that you don’t lose a whole portion of the roof to a large or sustained wind gust. Not every roof will need tie-downs, but it’s a good idea to talk to Sarasota roofing contractors to find out if it is advisable for yours.

Trim your trees

Branches should not be within six feet of your house. In high winds, these are going to act like large whips, damaging your roof system. Be extra cautious of branches that may creep up beside your roof’s edge. This is the area that provides protection from air lift, therefore it is even more important that it is not damaged.

Clean your gutters and drainage systems

The drainage system plays a major role in mitigating storm damage. A hurricane comes with rain capable of causing serious damage. You want to make sure your gutters and drainage systems are free to conduct water effectively in the event of a storm. Get rid of all the debris from the drainage systems.

Ensure the gutters are clear so that the rainwater can flow through them easily. You may need a roofing contractor to help you clean the gutters effectively.

Review Your Insurance Policies

You should begin taking actions to prepare your roof for a hurricane well before the hurricane is scheduled to hit.

Start by finding and reviewing both your roofing system warranty and insurance policy. Although the warranty does not ensure that your roof will withstand the hurricane, it is an important piece of information to have in the event serious damage occurs.

If you think additional insurance coverage might be needed, be sure to reach out to the appropriate parties sooner rather than later.

Next, take photos of your roofing system. These images will come in handy after the storm when you are documenting any damages.

Secure Loose Items In Your Yard

Any items that may take flight and damage your home, or anyone else’s, should be moved indoors. Patio furniture, for example, should be stored in your garage, shed or home. Though it is likely one of your most valuable possessions, your home is not the only thing that will need to be protected during a storm. Stowing your vehicle is also important.

If you don’t have a garage, move your car away from any large trees that may fall and cause damage.

After the Storm Passes

Once the storm has passed, it is time to assess the status of your roofing system. It is of the utmost importance that you use a high level of caution when inspecting your building and roofing system after a hurricane. You should also not attempt to make any fixes to your roof or building on your own. Instead, call your insurance agency to begin the claim process. Again you’ll need to take photos of your roofing system in order to provide a side by side comparison for your agent.

Your next call should be to your roofer / contractor. This individual or team will be able to accurately assess the damage done to your roof by the hurricane and recommend the next best steps. Watch out for frauds! Unknown contractors tend to appear in the wake of traumatic storms, so be sure you are only talking to and paying your trusted advisers.

Your best option is to contact an experienced roofing contractor at Avery Roof Services for a consultation on your roof, and to get answers to any questions that you might have.

Conclusion

One final word of advice: don’t wait. Hurricane season is already well underway. Roofing experts and tree-trimming professionals are in the midst of a busy season. Begin preparations today.

Avery Roof Services can save homeowners valuable time because we already meet the highest qualifications homeowners are looking for in a Florida roofing contractor.