Is Your Roof Hail Storm Ready?

When extreme weather conditions start during spring, you must protect your home from damage. Hail storms and strong winds present a huge threat to your roofs.

It is crucial to ensure your home is ready for the storm. You may not avoid hail damage altogether, but you will be ready to handle it appropriately. This is the time to get in touch with a reputable insurance company and roofing contractor.

So, is your roof storm ready? Today, we will look at how to prepare for the rain, keeping you and your property safe.

Why You Need to Prepare Your Roof for the Storm

Hail storm damage to your roof is not something you want to experience. A storm can blow off the asphalt shingles on your roof, in the case of loose shingles, and cause major damage to the whole house. The results are often expensive roof repairs.

A storm-ready roof means a roof that has a better chance of standing against strong winds. There is always something you can do to get such a roof.

So, why would you go through all that trouble? Here are some reasons:

• Prevent further damages. Storm damage can vary in severity depending on the quality of your roofing material. Some cases will demand a replacement of the entire roof, while others require only a few repairs. Whatever the case, no one wants to deal with any damages.
• Avoid costly repairs. No homeowner wants to spend money on a new roofing installation all the time. But it can happen if you don’t get ready for the storm in time.
• Strengthen your roof. The more prepared you are, the less damage you will incur. For instance, understanding the minimum wind ratings of your roof allows you to put the necessary measures in place when you anticipate strong winds.

In short, it’s all about preparing your roof for the weather. It’s very common to face storms and other weather extremes in Myrtle Beach, SC.

So, is your roof ready for the weather? Missing shingles, lack of maintenance, and dirt on the entire roof show lack of preparedness.

Unless you have the money for a full roof replacement, it’s time to pick up your tools and get to work. Your roof needs you are much as you need it. And the next section will show you how to get it ready.

How to Prepare Your Roof for the Storm

Consider hiring trustworthy roofing contractors to check your roof for issues before the storm. Ensure the roofer has all the proper licensing and experience with your region’s weather.

There are several things you can do to prevent extreme damage. It mostly depends on your roof type, though.

For instance, tile roofs are stronger than asphalt shingles. Preparing them with roof brackets and other methods for the storm is much easier.

Consider the following tips.

Take Photos Before and After

How long has it been since you looked at your roofing tiles? They could be issues like broken gutters and shingles that will not withstand the heavy rain. It would be nice to have photos before and after the storm to determine what more damage was done.

You can find ways to minimize damage when you know its status. Besides, the photos may come in handy when dealing with insurance claims after the hail hits it.

Check for Any Existing Damage

A roof checked regularly can withstand winds better than one that is less maintained. So, check your roof for any damages to ensure proper protection.

Look for:

• Granules on the ground. A lot of granules on the ground may mean your roofing materials will have a low storm survival rate. Repair the missing granules in time before the harsh weather hits.
• Holes on the roof. Even a roof with the strongest wind rating can be punctured by falling debris. Call a roofing professional to fix any holes to avoid further damage during the storm.
• Mold and rot. Water damage can cause mold and rot. If you don’t fix it, the storm will make it worse. Fix it in time.
• Damaged shingles. Always ensure your roof has a storm-rated adhesive. If it lacks such provision, it’s quite easy to fail. Check for loose or damaged shingles and fix them immediately.

Is Your Roof Too Old?

The roof’s age affects its impact-resistant qualities. All roofs have specific lifespans and are controlled by specific building codes. Proper precautions but be taken with a roof nearing the end of its life. Perhaps it’s time to get a new one.

Storm Survival Rating

Severe weather conditions can break roofing tiles and other materials. That is why professional roofing companies offer roofing materials designed for specific regions.

A roofing material with the best wind rating can offer more protection in such conditions. So, if you are in an area prone to hurricanes or high-speed winds, ensure you have the best material, and it’s installed properly.

Are there any Overhanging Trees? Trim Them

Regular maintenance of your garden can prevent extensive damage to your roofs. There are roofs designed to handle the impact of falling materials better than other roofing types.

To be on the safe side, just trim those branches, and you can rest more comfortably. When trees rub against roof shingles, they cause wear and tear, which may force you to replace them much sooner than expected.

Insure Your Roof

Many homeowners insurance policies cover storm damages. So, if your home is not insured and you are in a storm-prone area, consider signing up

for one before the next storm hits. Some of these policies cover the entire replacement costs, allowing you to have a new roof easily.

The signs of hail damage include broken shingles, blackish marks on the roof, severe water leaks, and damaged gutters. You need to ensure your roof is ready for the hit to avoid such issues.

A storm-ready roof is damage-free, has no missing granules or leakages, is not too old, and has no tree hanging over it. A professional roofing contractor can help you get ready. Just ensure you hire a reputable company with proper licensing.

This is where Lenox Roofing comes in. The company has offered South Carolina roof installation, inspection, maintenance, and repair services for many years. Get in touch today and put any worries about storm damage to rest.