Do you know how to prepare your house or commercial building for a hurricane? Hurricanes are a harsh and unpleasant reality in the State of Florida. Unfortunately, residential homeowners and commercial building owners often bear the brunt of loss when a hurricane strikes. Hurricane preparedness is not optional – it is a necessity. Minimizing or eliminating a catastrophic disaster can be accomplished by taking proactive measures.
How To Prepare A House For A Hurricane: 10 Steps For Floridians To Consider
Homeowners and businesses should employ sensible measures to reduce the risk of loss due to a hurricane. Consider the following steps:
(1) Obtain A Roof Inspection Before Hurricane Season
When you hire an experienced, Florida-based roofing inspector, you receive knowledge and insight on what steps to take to ensure your building is as secure as possible in the event of a hurricane. A thorough inspection will allow you to evaluate your options and supply you with documentation regarding the roof’s current condition. It also provides information your insurer may need for the best coverage.
(2) Address Known Roofing Issues Promptly
Loose or missing shingles. Dented or damaged flashing. Problematic ventilation. Unresolved issues with roofing sublayers, including the underlayment, decking, or drip edge. A roof can only effectively and efficiently safeguard against outside forces like hurricane-force winds and relentless rain or hail when it performs optimally. Once you know about roofing issues, take proactive steps to remediate them.
(3) Trim Trees And Remove Yard Debris
When a hurricane strikes, powerful winds cause trees to bend and break. Loose limbs are twisted and ripped off and can puncture roofs. Objects in the yard or landscaping that aren’t secure will transform into dangerous projectiles. Property owners should stay ahead of the game by removing large limbs as soon as they break or fall off a tree. Likewise, when a hurricane or bad weather appears imminent, removing and securing yard ornaments or furniture makes sense.
(4) Choose High-Performance Roofing Materials
If you are considering replacing the existing roof, select roofing materials with the highest wind resistance. Many reputable roofing manufacturers design and produce high-performance shingles and tiles to withstand high winds, hail, and downpours. They also may provide warranties to protect your roof if your home is subjected to a hurricane. Underlayments have come a long way in offering maximum protection.
(5) Install Hurricane Clips, Ties, Or Straps
Retrofitting hurricane ties to your structure strengthens the connection between the rafters or roof trusses and the walls. These ties make it much more difficult for the roof to blow off in high winds – especially during a relentless thunderstorm or hurricane. Because technology changes rapidly, only hire a roofing professional with the essential expertise for installing these added precautionary clips, straps, or ties.
(6) Clean Gutters And Downspouts
Routinely removing clogs from your gutters and downspouts allows heavy rain from hurricane-force storms to channel through the gutter system instead of damming on the roof or foundation where moisture can penetrate the structure. A knowledgeable roofing professional can assist by providing the right tools and equipment to ensure your gutters remain clean, clog-free, and ready for any amount of rainfall.
(7) Purchase A Hurricane Preparedness Kit, Including Tarps
“Be prepared.” It’s not just a metaphor for the Boy Scouts. It also applies to property owners. You might not be able to purchase tarps easily after a hurricane. Have several tarps available in case the roof reveals damage immediately following a destructive storm. It goes a long way toward preventing further water damage to your home – especially the interior. Avoid self-installation of the tarp if possible. Hire a pro. They know how to protect your home.
(8) Adhere To State Building Code Requirements
Florida state and local building codes change quickly to account for shifting insurance industry concerns. If you own a home or commercial property, stay on top of amendments to the Florida Building Code to know if you need to add fasteners, a secondary water barrier, or other roofing components to comply with applicable statutory requirements.
(9) Review Your Existing Homeowner’s Insurance Policy
Do you know what coverage limits your property insurance policy includes and excludes in the event of hurricane-related causes? Carriers in states like Florida may require a wind mitigation inspection for coverage. Sometimes, premium discounts or reduced rates may exist for property owners who take advantage of hurricane preparedness measures for their roofs or homes.
(10) Know Who To Call When A Hurricane Strikes
Don’t assume that any roofing company will know what to do immediately following a hurricane. In fact, many roofing contractors have little to no real-world experience with providing 24/7 emergency response service. A roofer who understands the steps to follow acts as a beacon of calm in a storm, assuring the homeowner that the situation is manageable and under control. Have a contractor in mind beforehand.
Hiring A Knowledgeable Roofing Contractor For Hurricane Preparedness
Homeowners and businesses benefit from having a reputable roofing company to assist with hurricane preparedness. Unfortunately, many roofing contractors lack the knowledge and experience to help Florida residents know how to prepare a house for a hurricane. At Alan’s Roofing, we understand Florida building codes. We will ensure your roof receives what you need to maximize your home’s security during a hurricane.
Contact Alan’s Roofing today to learn more about our roofing services or to schedule an appointment to address your roof for hurricane season.
