July
25
The Necessity of Being Prepared
Mother Nature, as we all know, is unpredictable. From a gentle summer breeze to a destructive hurricane, she shifts her moods without warning. In the United States, hurricane season is a yearly challenge, occurring from June to November. As homeowners, we know you can’t control these storms, but what you can control is how prepared you are. One of the most important parts of your home to protect during hurricane season is your roof, and Skywalker Roofing is here to help!
Understanding Your Roof’s Vulnerabilities
Knowing the vulnerabilities of your roof is equally important when you are preparing for hurricane season. Whether your roof is made of asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or metal, each type has its unique weaknesses.
Asphalt shingle roofs, although affordable and popular, can suffer damage from high winds and heavy rain. Tiles, while durable, can crack or break under hurricane conditions, and metal roofs, though wind-resistant, can still suffer damage. Furthermore, poorly installed or aged roofing materials can make your roof more susceptible to hurricane damage.
In the 2023 hurricane season, be proactive. Don’t repeat last year’s mistakes, and start acting today. Regularly inspect your roof for signs of wear and tear, like missing shingles or tiles, or rust on metal roofs. If you are not able to do it, take help from professionals, they will help you inspect your roof and provide you with the best solution.
Important Steps You Need to Consider This Hurricane Season
1. Maintenance Matters
Like any aspect of home ownership, regular maintenance is key to longevity. This saying is particularly true for roofs. Regularly cleaning your gutters helps to prevent water buildup on your roof, which can lead to leaks or structural damage.
Trimming trees near your roof is another important maintenance task. In a storm, loose branches or unsteady trees can crash into your roof, causing unnecessary damage. Try to keep branches at least ten feet away from your home. Remember, a small issue can become a big problem in a hurricane. Addressing these problems early will not only save your roof but could also save you a significant amount of money in the long run.
2. Consider Investing in Hurricane Straps
For those living in particularly hurricane-prone areas, it may be wise to invest in hurricane straps. These metal straps are a preventative measure designed to strengthen the connection between your roof and the walls of your home. They can significantly increase your roof’s wind resistance, preventing it from lifting during a hurricane.
3. Get Adequate Insurance Coverage
It is of utmost importance to ensure your homeowner’s insurance covers hurricane damage. This type of coverage can sometimes be an add-on, so check your policy thoroughly. If you are unsure, call your insurance provider and discuss your options.
Make sure you understand what is covered. For example, some policies may cover wind damage but not flooding caused by a hurricane. You may need to purchase additional flood insurance to be fully covered. Document the condition of your roof and home before the storm season with photos or videos. This proof can be invaluable in case you need to file an insurance claim.
4. Post-Storm Inspections and Repairs
Once the storm has passed, it’s important to check your roof for damage. Look for missing shingles, cracked tiles, or dents in metal roofs. Inside your home, watch out for signs of leaks or water damage. Remember, it’s important to do this once it’s safe to do so.
If you notice any damage, contact a professional roofer as soon as possible to prevent further issues. At Skywalker Roofing, we offer post-storm inspections and repairs to help you return your home to the best condition.
Let Skywalker Roofing Help You Beat the Hurricane Season
The hurricane season may be daunting, but with adequate preparation, you can weather the storm. A well-prepared roof is not just about surviving a storm; it’s about safeguarding the comfort of your home.
Let Skywalker Roofing be your go-to choice. We are a leading roofing provider serving the NC Piedmont Triad, Piedmont Triangle, Charlotte Metro, and Roanoke, VA areas. Our roofers are well-equipped with the right tools, training, and experience to effectively take care of any roofing need you have. Give us a call at +1 (336) 627-5596 and arrange your FREE roof inspection and consultation today. Be prepared, be safe. Experience the Skywalker difference – you won’t regret it!
