Summer on the East Coast of the United States brings more than just warm weather, it also marks the start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season. The official season is from June 1st to November 30th, but there can be outliers, so good preparation in advance is essential. While we can always hope for the best, it’s also important to plan for the worst. Tampa may be sunny and picturesque most of the year, but the tradeoff is an often brutal hurricane season. Ultimately, we don’t know when the next major storm will hit Florida, so it’s imperative to go through some good preparations every year. Good preparation doesn’t need to be overwhelming though, it can easily be taken care of in a few simple steps, all of which we’ve gone over in this article.
Schedule a Roof Inspection
The first step of preparing your roof for hurricane season is to schedule a roof inspection with Avatar Roofing. Roof damage isn’t always easy to spot for the average homeowner, so it’s always best to consult a professional especially when preparing for major storms. Any minor damage can easily become a major risk in even a small storm, making an annual inspection a necessity. Tampa is hit by hurricanes almost every season, so regular roof inspections are a must. Your inspector should give you a report of the roof life expectancy, tile/shingle health and general wear-and-tear, leaks and water damage, and any repairs you may need. If you are recommended any repairs, it’s important to get them done well before the official start of the hurricane season.
Gutters and Drainage
In an ideal world, your gutters and drainage systems would always be clear and protect your roof from water damage, but hurricanes are hardly an ideal situation. Part of preparing your roof is making sure to fully clean your gutters and drainage systems, so as to limit overflow during heavy rains. Downspouts, which carry water vertically from your roof to the ground, are especially important to clean in preparation for storm season. Neglecting to prepare your roof drainage system for heavy rains puts you at a higher risk for overflow, flooding, and water damage. If you need help with gutter cleaning,
Preparing Your Yard
Another part of keeping your roof safe during hurricane season is preparing your yard. High winds and heavy rain can knock down trees and bushes. Falling branches can cause significant roof damage. It’s also important to protect your roof from foliage throughout the year. Low-hanging branches that brush against your roof can gradually wear down roofing materials and lead to costly repairs. Tropical Florida trees can enhance your property’s appearance. However, unchecked growth can create serious problems for homeowners.
In Case of Emergency
Of course, no amount of preparation can guarantee that your roof will avoid damage during hurricane season. You should review your home insurance policy every year to confirm that it covers potential storm damage. Make sure to review any warranties you have as well. If you are unsure how to navigate your policy details, you can reach out to one of our experts for help. Our team can help you with insurance policies and adjustments if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start preparing my roof for hurricane season?
You should start before June 1st, when Atlantic hurricane season officially begins. A professional inspection gives you time to repair loose shingles, leaks, or weak areas before severe weather arrives.
Do I really need a roof inspection if I do not see any damage?
Yes. Small roofing issues are not always visible from the ground. Minor damage can become a serious problem during high winds and heavy rain.
Why are gutters so important before a hurricane?
Clean gutters and downspouts help move heavy rain away from your roof and home. If they are clogged, water can back up and increase the risk of leaks, flooding, and water damage.
Should I trim trees before hurricane season?
Yes. Overhanging branches can scrape your roof or break during strong winds. Trimming trees before storm season helps reduce the risk of roof damage from falling limbs.
Contact Us
Preparing your roof for hurricane season is a yearly necessity, and Avatar Roofing is here to help. To schedule an inspection, or a cleaning, or to get a quote, reach us at (813) 962-7663.
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