How Ready Is Your Roof for a Hurricane?

How Ready Is Your Roof for a Hurricane in East Alabama?

During tropical depressions, hurricanes, or wind-driven storms, you could experience wind gusts, flying debris, or torrential downpours that could significantly damage your home. Roofs are especially vulnerable because of their exposed location and large surface area.

If your roof shingles tear off, you can expect water to find its way into the walls and ceilings of your home. Before hurricane season begins, you can take several steps to prepare your roof.

Arrange for a Pre-Season Inspection

Taking care of problem areas before bad weather arrives will give your roof a better chance of surviving a storm. Before hurricane season begins, inspect your roof for cracked and loose shingles, as well as damaged flashing. During this time, you may also want to discuss measures for securing your roof during strong winds.

Provide Added Support

It might be a good idea to reinforce the framework of your roof if you live in an area susceptible to hurricanes. Roof strengthening methods can be discussed with a roofing professional, such as:

  • Braces
  • Collar ties
  • Strapping

Choose Quality Products 

During a hurricane, the winds created can cause a powerful uplift that can peel shingles from roofs. Edges and eaves are particularly vulnerable. As soon as your shingles are gone, the wind starts to work on your underlayment, leaving your roof defenseless against the pounding rain.

Also, gusts of wind might carry objects, like tree branches and lawn furniture, which could become projectiles that could damage shingles and tear flashing off. Prepare for the upcoming hurricane season in 2021 by looking into better roofing solutions.

Check into Potential Insurance Discounts

Those who take proactive steps to protect their homes may qualify for insurance discounts. Homeowners who adhere to hurricane-related building codes may be eligible for discounts; some states even require it. Depending on your insurance provider, you may need to schedule a wind mitigation inspection. A certified inspector will evaluate how well your home could withstand strong winds during this assessment. They’ll examine the siding, windows, doors (especially the garage doors), and the roof, of course.

Consult with an independent roofing contractor if your home’s roof is showing signs of wear and tear or if you would like a pre-hurricane season inspection. In addition, they can discuss the pros and cons of roof repairs versus a total roof replacement and advise you on hurricane prevention strategies.

You can trust Restoration1 of East Alabama to restore your home if you suffer damage from a hurricane or another natural disaster.