Protect Your Home From Hurricane Damage

As a roofing contractor in Alpharetta, Ga., I was wondering what is likely the worst month for hurricane damage to your roof? And what to you can do help protect your home from hurricane damage.

With September being the peak of the hurricane season, the number of hurricanes per month may decrease but the impact and strength of those storms increase during the month of October. According to www.weather.com over the past 10 years, 17 hurricanes hit Florida in the month of October and of that 17, 10 of them were category 3 or higher! With Georgia sitting right above Florida it is clear that October may bring damage to your roofing system. Here are 3 things you can do to help protect your home from hurricane damage.

 

Inspecting Your Roof For Existing Damage

Take a walk around your home and identify any areas that look to have water damage or cluttered with leaves and moss. Moss algae and leaf debris are a major factor in costly leaks. Once on the roof itself look for obvious signs such as missing tiles, cracked rubber around vent pipes and curled or buckled shingles. Buckled shingles are the result of hot summer sun beating on the roof with poor ventilation (see our blog: 4 ways to tell if your attic is properly ventilated). Run your hand over your shingles to make sure they have texture, if they are smooth they are worn and will not protect your home, these as well as damaged or missing shingles need to be replaced immediately!

 

Going Over Your Gutter System

Your gutter system is a continuation of your roof and needs to be in good working condition to protect your home. Your gutter is the highway that carries the water away from your home. Inspect to be sure there are no crimps that would restrict water flow from gutters or downspouts. Debris is a major cost culprit that can cause water damage to your home. Using a ladder with a stabilizer, scoop out all waste from the gutters and look for leaks, rust or holes. Flush with water using a high powered nozzle and be sure all water is moving away from the house and foundation area.

 

Clearing The Area Around Your House

Clearing the area around the base of your house is important. The same moss algae and leaves that cause damage on the roof will cause damage around the base of your home. Keeping bushes and trees that surround your home trimmed and clearing the excess foliage will reduce the risk of flooding.

 

Now that we’ve identified several situations that can cause costly damage, what do we do next? Making repairs is the first line of defense and here at Hewatt Roofing we have satisfied thousands of residential and commercial customers. Reach out today for a professional to help you prepare your home to handle the worst of storms at www.hewattroofing.com to help protect your home from hurricane damage.