07 Apr 5 Steps to Ready Your Roof for Florida’s Hurricane Season
As a Florida homeowner, you’re probably no stranger to hurricane season. And if you’ve lived in the sunshine state for a while, you know how important it is to prepare your home for any kind of tropical weather.
After all, “Much of the property damage associated with hurricanes occurs after the windstorm, when rain enters structures through broken windows, doors, and openings in the roof,” as reported by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
This means one of the most vulnerable parts of your home is your roof, so let’s take a look at some steps you can take to prep your roof for hurricane season.
#1 — Inspect Your Roof
Start by inspecting your roof. You can do this yourself or hire a professional. Look for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
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If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to address them right away. Taking care of minor issues before they become major problems can save you a lot of money and stress in the future.
#2 — Trim Surrounding Trees
High winds and heavy rain can cause limbs and branches to fall on your roof during a hurricane. If you have trees close to your home, trim back any dead or weak branches. It’s also a good idea to remove any trees that are too close to your home or that could fall during a storm.
Not only can they fall directly onto your roof and damage shingles — or worse, cause water leaks — but they can also clog or destroy your gutters in the process.
#3 — Secure Loose Items
Before a storm hits, take some time to secure any loose items that could become airborne and damage your roof or other parts of your home. This includes patio furniture, trash cans, and outdoor decorations. Bring these items indoors or store them in a secure location.
Otherwise, you could also replace certain items for long-term safety. For example, the Insurance Information Institute (III) recommends “[replacing] gravel or rock landscaping materials with shredded bark, which is lighter and won’t cause as much harm.”
#4 — Install Hurricane Straps
Hurricane straps are metal connectors that attach your roof to the walls of your home. They provide additional support and stability during high winds. If your home doesn’t already have hurricane straps, consider having them installed. While this may be a more expensive option, it can provide added peace of mind during hurricane season.
According to Owens Corning, you could also consider braces or collar ties as alternative strengthening methods.
#5 — Get a Professional Inspection
Last but certainly not least, it’s always a good idea to have a professional roofing company inspect your roof every year or two. They can check for any potential issues and make recommendations for repairs or maintenance.
Plus, they can ensure that your roof is up to code and can withstand Florida’s often-harsh weather conditions.
Protecting your home during hurricane season is essential for Florida homeowners. While there’s no way to completely prevent damage from a storm, taking steps to prep your roof can minimize the impact.
And if you’re ready to get started with a FREE roof inspection, you can trust Universal Roof & Contracting!
Our team has served both Jacksonville and the greater Central Florida community for over 30 years. Thus, we have a proven history of providing industry-leading craftsmanship and customer service throughout hurricane season and beyond!
So, are you ready to learn more? Start today by contacting our team at 855-ROOF-HELP — You’ll find the difference is universal with us!
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