The 2021 Atlantic hurricane season is already a busy one and we have yet to experience the months that are typically the most active – September and October. Hurricane preparedness is key to long-term safety, and it begins with roof protection. During major storm activity, roofing systems are subject to extreme wind speeds, torrential rainfall, and even flying projectiles. Before the next major storm makes landfall, be sure to read through these five must-know tips from top Atlanta roofing specialists.
Review Your Current Insurance Coverage
Looking over your insurance policy prior to major storm activity is one of the best ways to stay one step ahead of the chaotic aftermath that may follow. We suggest preparing and storing important documentation, such as warranties, insurance policies, and photos of your home. Taking the time to do this now will be sure to save you time and effort if you were to suffer damages to your roof. Having photo evidence of what your roof looks like before and after an accident makes your claim much more likely to be approved.
Get a Roof Inspection
After thoroughly combing through your insurance policy to make sure there are no gaps in coverage, you owe it to your roof to give it just as detailed of an examination. Atlanta roofing companies have the experience and knowledge necessary to identify the strengths and weaknesses of rooftops. This expertise will go a long way towards shoring up weaknesses and saving you from costly repairs after a storm.
Reduce Risk of Damage from Trees
Wind speeds during a hurricane can range anywhere from 74 mph (category 1) to 157 and above (category 5), which is enough to move cars, uproot trees, and even blow the roof off some homes. If these things are no match for hurricanes, then what do you expect to happen to tree branches? Tree limbs – especially ones that are diseased or dead – are extremely likely to snap off during hurricanes and become projectiles that could strike your roof. Take a walk around your property and trim any dead, broken, or oversized limbs.
Replace Compromised Shingles
It is important for the long-term health of your roof to keep it as clean as possible. Besides looking good, this also makes it easiest for you to spot signs of missing or deteriorating shingles, which are those that are discolored, curled, or lacking granules. If any of your shingles are compromised, then they offer a small window for major storms to penetrate the entire structure with moisture. After enough time, this moisture will cause rot, mildew, and mold, which all severely weaken the strength of the roof. Be sure to replace all compromised shingles before a storm.
Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Allowing water to pool on your roof after a storm poses a multitude of risks to the health of both your roof and building. Gutters and drains need to have unrestricted flow so that they can help all rainwater escape from the roof during and after a hurricane. Debris like leaves and twigs can easily clog a drain, especially when they are displaced so easily by hurricane-force winds and wind up on the roof. By clearing these drainage points, you can give your roof its best chance to divert all that rainfall away from your foundation.
With a thought-out and well-implemented preparation plan, you can make it through yet another turbulent hurricane season without thinking twice about your roof. Atlanta roofing specialists can inspect your roofing system and provide any necessary repairs to make sure it’s in tip-top shape. With 50 years of roofing experience behind us, trust in Georgia Roofing and Paving Co. to take care of you and your roof!
