How to Prepare Your Roof for a Major Storm
From hurricanes to tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, Florida is no stranger to extreme weather.
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.
Even a minor hurricane packs 60-90 mph wind gusts, so it doesn’t take much to cause damage to your roof. A heavy thunderstorm can compromise your building, especially if your roof isn’t in great shape.
With hurricane season upon us (June 1 – November 30, 2021), here are things you can do to prepare your commercial roof to withstand an impending storm:
Perform Regular Maintenance
Keeping a routine maintenance schedule is a good idea under regular circumstances; even more so if you live in an area affected by hurricanes and other severe weather. Regular roof maintenance can catch preliminary issues before they get worse, saving you both time and money. Routinely check your roof for wear and disrepair, particularly around the joints, seams, and flashing. Replace any rotting wood and rusted metal components, and remove any loose debris.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
The purpose of gutters and downspouts is to direct water away from your building, reduce roof 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 built-up debris or excess water in your gutters, the backed-up water will sit on your roof and increase the probability of water entering your building. To protect your roof and building, clear your gutters and downspouts before the storm hits.
Trim Branches
While gale-force winds and hail cause damage, a tree branch falling on your roof during a storm can be devastating. A rogue tree branch can crack the roof supports, causing thousands of dollars in damage. It can also cause electrical damage or injury to a person inside your business. By trimming any trees away from your roof, you can help prevent a disaster.
Update Insurance and Warranties
The aftermath of a hurricane can be chaotic. Stay ahead of your competition by having necessary documentation prepared and stored in a safe and accessible place. These documents can include, but are not limited to:
- Warranties for manufacturing and office equipment
- Business liability insurance documentation
- Insurance documentation
- Before photos of the building and other assets
- Contact information for contractors, insurance agents and adjuster
Schedule a Roof Inspection
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 before a hurricane.
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.