Is Your Roof Hurricane Ready?
As hurricane season approaches, it's crucial for property owners, managers, and stakeholders to ensure their roofs are well-prepared. Proper preparation can significantly reduce the risk of damage and expedite recovery if a storm hits. Here are my top recommendations to get your roof hurricane-ready.
1. Hire a Licensed Professional for a "Pre-Storm" Roof Inspection
The first step in preparing your roof for hurricane season is to hire a licensed professional to perform a thorough inspection. This inspection should come with a photo report that includes time-stamped and dated photos of your current roof conditions. This documentation will be invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim, providing proof of your roof's state before and after the storm.
2. Check Perimeter and Edge Flashing Details
During the inspection, pay special attention to all your perimeter and edge flashing details. The most common failure points in roofs during hurricanes are the edges. Ensure that your coping caps and drip metal are securely in place, as 85% of roof failures occur at these locations.
3. Remove Loose Debris from the Roof
Inspect the field of your roof for any loose debris. Items such as branches, leaves, leftover maintenance materials or unsecured outdoor furniture can be picked up by strong winds, potentially causing punctures and damage to your roofing system. Regularly clear your roof of such debris to minimize this risk.
4. Secure HVAC Panels and Rooftop Units
Check the panels on your HVAC and other rooftop units. Heavy winds can dislodge these panels, causing significant damage to your roof. Ensure all panels are firmly secured to prevent them from becoming projectiles during a storm.
5. Clean and Maintain Roof Drains
Before leaving your roof, make sure all drains are clean and free of debris. Torrential downpours can lead to water backup on your roofing system, adding substantial weight that could potentially cause a collapse. Regular maintenance of your roof's drainage system is essential to avoid this scenario.
6. Develop and Share a Hurricane Plan
Finally, have a comprehensive hurricane plan in place. This plan should detail who is responsible for what actions and who to contact first in the event of a hurricane. Make sure everyone involved is aware of and understands the plan to ensure a coordinated and efficient response.
By following these recommendations, you can significantly enhance your roof's resilience against hurricanes, protecting your property and ensuring a quicker recovery if disaster strikes. Stay safe and prepared this hurricane season!
Get Ready with Our Hurricane Checklist
To further assist you, we've prepared a hurricane checklist that will walk you through the steps to make sure your roof is hurricane ready. If you'd like a shareable PDF copy, just reply to this email or request your copy from martketing@bestroofing.net.
To schedule your pre-storm inspection, just fill out the form below and one of our Forensic Roof Specialists will reach out shortly!
