ImproveIT! of Atlanta

The condition of your roofing system is crucial to your and your family’s safety, especially during extreme weather events like hurricanes. Negligence can result in severe and expensive damage to your entire house. To prevent financial stress and safety hazards due to storm damage, you must know how it can affect your roof as well as the steps to protect your property. 

Keep reading as ImproveIT! of Atlanta discusses tips on preventing roof damage from storms.

How Roof Damage Occurs During a Storm

The most common culprit behind a damaged roof is a leak, which results from any broken roofing material. When there is a storm, destructive elements like ice, water and debris usually accumulate and get stuck on the rooftop. You should also check your gutters for water leak issues and the base of your roof for ice dam formation. 

Given all of these problems, the affected roofing material must be checked and cleaned immediately. Otherwise, trapped moisture will occur and cause significant damage like rotting, roof discoloration and structural steel corrosion. Once you notice something’s wrong with your roof, call reputable roofers for an inspection so they can determine whether a roof replacement or repair is necessary. 

Steps to Protect Your Roof From Storms

Prior prevention is always the best way to avoid roof damage that could possibly be caused by hurricanes. While contacting a professional roofing contractor is key to keeping your roof in its best condition, you can follow the tips below to add a layer of protection to your roofing system while searching for a reliable contractor. 

Equip Your Roof With Extra Protective Material 

There are different roofing materials that can add a layer of protection against potential damage due to high winds and hurricanes. If you are looking for an affordable option, then go with asphalt shingles, which are effective in protecting roofs from damage. However, asphalt shingles can easily crack and split during a hurricane, which can lead to leaks. When this happens, you will need to replace your damaged roofing shingles, forcing you to spend money after the weather event.

On the other hand, plywood is a more durable choice as a hurricane-resistant protective sheet to be placed underneath your roof. Just make sure that the type you get is fully waterproof. Even though plywood has a higher price tag than asphalt shingles, it’s the most effective material for roof protection against storm damage. Moreover, the option for plywood is a cost-effective decision because you won’t have to replace your roof after a hurricane, allowing you to save money eventually.

Another effective way to protect your roof from strong winds and excessive rainwater is by installing roof sheets. These materials are designed to direct water away from homes. However, be sure they are correctly installed and completely sealed. It’s also best to use high-quality sheet sealants to ensure great results and avoid recurring roofing issues. For more detailed advice on the right protective material for your roof, consult a roofing company for roof inspections and recommendations. 

Cut Overgrown Trees Near Your Property

While trees can boost your home’s curb appeal, they can also put your roof at risk during hurricanes. Moreover, tree branches and fruits hanging can fly off during strong winds and hit major parts of your home, including your roof. For these reasons, any vegetation within falling distance of your property must be appropriately trimmed or cut down to decrease the possibility of severe damage. 

Keep Your Gutter System Clean

Gutters are an integral part of any home because they channel rainwater from the roofing system, keeping huge amounts of water from pooling on the roof. That’s why gutter cleaning and maintenance are essential, especially when there’s an incoming storm in your area. If your gutter system is clogged, it won’t be able to perform its main function. This may cause water ponding, which can cause the roof to break down. 

Get Rid of Debris Around Your Home

Before a hurricane hits your location, check your property for any materials or valuables that could be blown away or damaged by strong winds. This will allow you to decide early on, with a clear state of mind, where you can safely relocate these items. It’s also worth noting that when the debris is left outdoors near your home during a storm, it can seriously damage your roof and other areas of your property, putting your investment and safety in danger. 

Moreover, some items can be heavy and require professional equipment for safe loading and unloading. So instead of exerting much effort and energy to lift and relocate the debris by yourself, call a contractor who has the skills and tools to get the job done quickly and correctly. Another tip before a hurricane arrives is to leave most areas of your home undecorated to avoid damage from impact. 

Park Your Car Inside Your Garage

Regardless of how robust your cars may look, they are still prone to damage caused by hurricanes. If the wind is extremely strong, your car can be even blown away and crash onto your roof. Since your vehicle is a significant investment, like your roofing system, it should be protected from possible damage and parked in your garage where it can be safe during severe weather events.

Schedule Regular Roof Maintenance

Getting in touch with a roofing company for regular roof maintenance and repair is the most important preventive measure to take before a storm. However, many homeowners fail to invest in routine maintenance because they think it’s too expensive. The truth is that a neglected roof will cost you more in the long run. 

Before a storm arrives, make sure your roof is inspected for leaks on a regular basis. This means all roof holes must be detected and repaired by an experienced roofer. Your gutters must also be professionally checked for possible clogging, especially if you notice roof leaks. Keep in mind that even a small roofing issue, when left unfixed, will transform into major damage. 

Protecting your roof during a hurricane is vital to maximizing the lifespan of not only your roof but also your entire house. Turn to ‍ImproveIT! of Atlanta for top-notch roof replacement, repair, maintenance and inspection services. Our team is dedicated to addressing the roofing needs of our clients in Sandy Springs, Marietta and Alpharetta, GA. To schedule consultation, call us today at (770) 612-5635, or fill out our contact form.