How to Care for Your Roof in Hurricanes and Severe Weather

Key Takeaways

1. Hurricanes and storms can cause a lot of damage, but you can plan ahead to minimize it.

2. Hire a professional to inspect your roof and get ready for severe weather.

3. Take care of exterior elements like trees and clogged gutters.

Living near the sea has many perks, but it also comes with the risk of severe weather and even hurricanes that can wreak havoc on your home. Since we can't predict exactly when bad weather will strike, the best way to face it is by being prepared.

How Severe Weather Affects Your Roof

While your roof is designed to protect you from the elements, intense natural events can sometimes prevent it from doing its job. That's why it's so important to maintain your roof and keep it in top condition. For example, cracked or poorly installed shingles are more vulnerable to high winds, which can lift them off and cause damage. If your roof has a low slope, the edges are likely to suffer the most during a hurricane. It's not just the weather itself—flying debris, like heavy branches, can also cause significant damage to your roof. The bad weather will pass, but the damage can linger.

How to Prepare Your Roof to Avoid Storm Damage

It's always better to be safe than sorry. Before hurricane and storm season arrives, it's best to prepare your home by doing the following:

Get a Professional Roof Inspection and Prepare for Severe Weather

When was the last time you checked the condition of your roof? It’s time to call in a professional for an inspection to look for missing shingles, dents, or water stains on your ceilings. They’ll give you a full report on the state of your roof.

Trim the Trees Around Your Home

If you notice any risks from overhanging branches or loose trees, now is the time to call a professional to remove those hazards and prevent potential disasters.

Keep Your Home Clean

And we’re not just talking about your living room and kitchen—clean out your gutters and drains. If rainwater can flow easily, there’s less risk of blockages that could cause leaks or, even worse, flooding. (Here we can insert the link to the article on leaks.)

Prepare Your Budget for Hurricanes or Severe Weather

Since it’s hard to predict when a storm will hit, it’s best to stay alert. Add a contingency for weather-related repairs to your savings, whether it’s for roof maintenance or even installing a new one if it’s been 15 to 20 years since the last replacement.

Preparing your roof for hurricanes or severe weather not only saves you headaches but also ensures protection and security, knowing your roof will last while keeping you safe. After the storm, United Roofing will be there to help with whatever your roof needs.