Hurricanes and Roofs: Tips to Prepare Your Roof to Prevent Extensive Hurricane Damage

Are you worried that your roof may be vulnerable to the extreme weather brought by hurricanes?  As a Florida homeowner, you will want to take the right precautions to prepare your home as best as possible for any potential rough weather that may come your way.  Your roof is one of the top lines of defense against these bouts of strong weather, which is why taking the right steps to protect it is a critical part of hurricane prep.  As a public claims insurance adjuster in central Florida, we have seen many roofs collapse and suffer extreme damages from hurricanes.  Follow these tips to prepare your roof to prevent extensive damage before hurricane season rolls around this year.

Install Supports

Hurricanes bring heavy winds that can lift unsecured structures off the ground, including your roof.  To prevent this from happening, consider adding supports to your structure.  Braces, collar ties, and strapping can reinforce the roof's frame and make it less susceptible to damages that may be caused when heavy winds head your direction.

Have an Inspection

Before hurricane season actually begins, contact a professional roofer to have an inspection done.  Even if the roof structure appears to be in good condition from the ground, you will want to assess the entire structure.  Professionals will be able to walk the roofline, check the attic insulation, and notice any issues safely from a close angle.  This can bring your attention to any matters that you may have not noticed from your vantage point.

Use Quality Roofing Materials

When you live in Florida, you should pay attention to the types of materials that are most durable.  Implementing strong materials can be the difference between surviving a hurricane without extensive damage.  Choose quality shingles so that they don't fly off during the hurricane, pick a study underlayment to provide security, and consider an additional layer of protection with barriers.  

Clean Gutters and Drains

Exposed and clogged gutters are more than just eyesores on your property.  They can also cause major water issues during events of heavy rain.  When your gutters are clogged, the water will not be able to drain properly from your roof.  This can cause pooling, which can even result in roof collapse.  It can also cause issues with your foundation and siding, as water will trickle down the side of your house and damage the foundation and structure underneath.  Be sure that your gutters and drains are clear of any debris, branches, dirt, and other issues before hurricane season.

By following these tips, you can be proactive about protecting your home from the devastating effects of hurricanes in Florida.  As a public insurance claims adjuster in central Florida, we are here to help you through any damages or restoration processes that may occur.  Contact us to hear more about how we can help you through hurricane season this year.