Preparing Your Roof For A Hurricane

The Carolinas are officially in the hurricane season for the next few months. Most southerners know the drill for hurricane preparedness – generator is working, extra water and rations, emergency medical kits, etc. But what about your roof? This is quite literally what is going to keep you, your loved ones and personal assets safe while you ride out the storm. So what should you do to prepare your roof? Here are some suggestions:

Review your hurricane insurance policies
Insurance policies are written very specifically, so it is extremely important to know what you are and are not insured for. Many people purchase hurricane insurance, which does not cover flooding (which unfortunately usually accompanies hurricanes). And vice versa, flood insurance doesn’t cover other hurricane damage, such as roofing. Come hurricane policies cover all home damage except for residential roofing. Learn the in’s and out’s of your policy, and upgrade where needed to protect your home investment.

Purchase a tarp
Just incase, it is good to purchase a tarp prior to hurricanes. If you incur any damage, you will want to have one on hand ASAP to tarp your roof so the interior of your home is not damages. Unfortunately, tarps are in high demand at that point, and will be hard to come by. Be proactive, and purchase one just incase, it is a small expense that will save you tons in the long run.

Trim nearby trees
Mother nature’s wrath is a strong one – easily moving vehicles, RVs, sheds etc. Do you think your trees will be able to stand up to the force? Be proactive and trim excess branches, especially those close to your home or vehicles. Also, bracing your trees with the help of an arborist in the future can help them with stand hurricanes in the future.

Add roof straps
Your roof is going to take the brunt of the storm’s force during a hurricane. Reinforcing your roof where possible is a good idea for added structural integrity. Adding metal roof straps, which attach your roof to the walls of your home, is a great way to do this. This strengthens your roof, making it stand up to high winds better.

Get a roof inspections
Having a professional do a roof inspection prior to hurricane season is the best proactive measure you can take. This will shine light on any issues such as loose or missing shingles, previous unknown damage, moisture damage, mold growth and more. Receiving this report, and then fixing issues will help keep your roof performing at it’s peak during a hurricane.