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How to Prepare Your Roof and Home for a Tropical Storm or Hurricane
Witten Construction • September 9, 2024
How to Prepare Your Roof and Home for a Tropical Storm or Hurricane
As storm season approaches, it’s crucial to prepare your home and roof for potential damage caused by hurricanes or tropical storms. Strong winds and heavy rain can wreak havoc, but with proper roof storm preparation, you can protect your property and reduce risks. Follow this checklist to ensure your roof and home are storm-proof and ready for the season.
1. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Gutter cleaning before a storm is essential to prevent water buildup, which can lead to roof leaks and water damage. Clogged gutters cause water to back up under your roof or into your foundation, creating costly problems. Clear out debris like leaves, dirt, and branches to allow water to flow freely and away from your home.
2. Remove Debris
Debris removal is important because objects like sticks, branches, and trash can become dangerous projectiles in strong winds. Clearing your yard and securing loose items will help minimize the risk of roof damage from hurricanes.
3. Secure or Store Loose Items Around Your House
Patio furniture, trash bins, grills, and potted plants can turn into flying hazards in a storm. Secure loose shingles or store these items indoors to prevent roof wind damage or harm to surrounding structures. This is a key step in ensuring your roof is storm-ready.
4. Check Large Trees for Age and Weakness
Weak or old trees pose a serious threat during storms. Roof storm damage often occurs when large branches fall onto the house. Trim back any branches that overhang your roof or vehicles to avoid this type of damage. Preventative maintenance like this can be vital to avoid emergency roof repairs after a storm.
5. Your Insurance May Cover Roof Repairs
It’s a good idea to review your homeowner’s insurance policy to see if it covers roof repairs from storm damage. Some policies may cover roof replacement if shingles have been damaged in prior storms. Keep records of any roof maintenance to make filing insurance claims easier.
6. Seal Those Gaps
Sealing gaps and cracks in your roof, walls, and windows will protect against storm leaks. Use caulk or another suitable sealant to secure areas around vents, chimneys, and skylights. Preventing roof leaks is critical to keeping your home safe during a tropical storm or hurricane.
7. Get an Inspection
A professional roof inspection for storm season is one of the best ways to ensure your roof can withstand heavy winds and rain. Witten Roofing offers expert storm-proof roofing inspections and services. We’ll assess the condition of your roof and recommend any repairs to protect against wind-resistant roofing damage.
8. Check Your Emergency Kit
Don’t forget to prepare an emergency kit for your home. Stock up on water, non-perishable food, batteries, a first-aid kit, and important documents stored in waterproof containers. Having a plan in place will ensure your family’s safety during a hurricane.
Storm Season Safety Starts with Prevention
By following these steps, you’ll ensure your home is ready for whatever storm season brings. If you need a hurricane roof repair or want to schedule a tropical storm roof inspection, contact Witten Roofing, your trusted roofing company for storm damage. Don’t wait until it’s too late—get your roof and home prepared today!
