Thousands of roofs across the country are damaged yearly by weather-related incidents, especially tornados and hurricanes. Staying safe during hurricanes and other windstorms starts with preparing your roof. Although you won’t be able to predict the full extent of damage, being proactive will minimize it. You can save a lot of money in repairs down the line.
You can take numerous preventive measures to safeguard your roof, including performing regularly scheduled maintenance tasks, employing professional inspectors, investing in quality materials that meet local building codes, etc. Being proactive and attentive to potential problems can help ensure that your roof will withstand future storms.
So before a storm comes, take these additional steps for preventative roof care.
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Be on the lookout for roof damage
The first step to roof protection is regularly inspecting your roof for damage. Look for missing shingles, holes, cracks, or other indicators of possible damage that weather-related incidents could cause. If you see any damage, have a professional assess it as soon as possible and repair the issue before it worsens.
Remove any branches and leaves from your roof
Any debris that accumulates on your roof can cause damage in a storm. Removing leaves, branches, and objects frequently can lessen their chances of becoming projectiles during a windstorm or tornado. You can do this by cutting off overhanging branches and removing leaves by raking or blowing them away with a leaf blower.
Maintain clean gutters
Gutters are crucial to your roof’s protection from bad weather, and keeping them clean is essential. Clear any leaves or branches blocking water flow through the gutters so rainwater can quickly move away from the house. Moreover, having clean gutters also helps protect against potential fire hazards.
Check Your Attic for Previous Water Damage
Checking your attic for water damage is an integral part of storm preparation. Look for stains on the walls and ceiling and signs of mold or mildew. Since this area will be the first to show signs of roof damage, it’s essential to check for any water damage or leaks. Have any areas of concern assessed by a professional to ensure no leaks in your roof.
Move any backyard furniture or décor indoors
If you have furniture or décor in your backyard, move them indoors (or into your storage room if you have them) before the storm arrives. It will help decrease their chances of being used as projectiles during a windstorm that often damages your roof.
Clear the snow from your roof to prevent damage
In winter, snow accumulates on the roofs of houses. If not cleared off regularly, that snow can cause significant damage to your roof due to its weight and how it refreezes during cold temperatures. Preventing this is as simple as clearing the snow from your roof with a rake as soon as possible after it falls.
Consult Professional Roofing Services
The best way to ensure your roof survives storms is by consulting with professional roofing services. They will inspect your roof and advise on any repairs or maintenance it needs to withstand extreme conditions. Additionally, they may suggest additional safety measures, such as installing straps and clips to secure the roof during a windstorm.
source: https://gobighorn.com/preventing-your-roof-and-your-wallet-from-taking-a-hit-in-a-storm/
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