How to Prepare Your Roof for a Major Storm

The most recent storm to significantly impact Tampa was Hurricane Irma in 2017. Irma, landing in Tampa as a Category 2, brought damaging, roof-ripping winds, widespread power outages, and gushing floodwaters to our area. The storm ranks as one of the strongest and costliest hurricanes to hit the Atlantic.

While 60-90 mph wind gusts will definitely devastate your roof, it doesn’t take much to cause damage to a home. A heavy thunderstorm can compromise your home, especially if From hurricanes to tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, Florida is no stranger to extreme weather. your roof isn’t in great shape.

With hurricane season soon upon us (June 1 – November 30, 2020), here ere are things you can do at home prepare your roof and house to withstand the upcoming storms:

An old mariner term, “batten down the hatches” was used on ships for an impending storm. All the doors and portholes were closed to ensure that water from the ocean or sky couldn’t get inside and fill up the ship. The same can be done at your home by making sure all windows and doors are tightly secured. This is also a good time to check your weatherstripping for leaks and cracks.

By keeping your doors and windows closed during a storm, you help to protect your roof from air pressure issues. A blown open window or door can drastically increase your home’s air pressure, pushing the roof upward and decreasing its stability.

No one wants their gutters to get clogged, especially during a storm with heavy winds or rains. The purpose of gutters and drain spouts is to direct water away from your home, reduce roof and siding wear and tear, and minimize excessive water damage. When either becomes clogged or overfilled, it results in puddles of water on the edge of your roof. If you have build-up leaves and debris in your gutters, the excess water can weigh down your gutters causing them to fall and potentially rip off pieces of your roof. To protect your gutters and roof (and to give you peace of mind), clear your gutters and drain spouts before the storm hits.

While gale-force winds and hail and cause damage, nothing can be more devasting than a tree branch falling on your roof during a storm. A rogue tree branch can smash your tiles and crack the roof supports, resulting in thousands of dollars in damage. It can also cause electrical damage or injury to a person in the home. By trimming your trees away from your roof, you can help prevent a disaster.

Also known as “hurricane straps,” installing tie-downs will help to brace your roof during hurricanes and other severe storms. Not all roofs need tie-downs, but if you’re looking for extra storm security, it’s a good investment.

If you’re worried about the state of your roof for the upcoming hurricane season or would like that extra peace of mind, contact a qualified roofing contractor to schedule an inspection and consultation on storm preparation techniques. A professional can suggest and,  if needed, perform routine repairs to ensure your roof and its structure are secure prior to hurricane season.
At Elite Roofing Systems, we provide roofing solutions that correct the cause, not the effect. If you would like to receive more information about the commercial roofing repair, roof maintenance, and roofing installation services we provide, contact us at 877-630-0081 or 813-630-0800 today! Be sure to visit our Facebook page for roofing tips.Elite Roofing Systems proudly serves the entire Tampa Bay area, including Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Polk counties, and beyond.