Before and After the Storm: Protecting Your Roof from Hurricane Damage
Hurricanes might not be a frequent concern for Central and Northern Georgia, but as Hurricane Helene recently reminded us, they can still pose a significant threat to our homes. While we’re not located on the coast, the heavy rains, strong winds, and debris that come with hurricanes can cause unexpected damage—especially to our roofs. Without proper preparation, even a relatively mild storm can lead to leaks, structural issues, and costly repairs.
Understanding how hurricanes threaten your roof, knowing the steps to take for preparation, and having a plan for post-storm recovery are essential to keeping your home protected. Whether it’s routine maintenance or emergency repairs, safeguarding your roof is key to weathering the next storm.
How a Hurricane Damages Your Roof
Hurricanes unleash a combination of destructive forces that can significantly compromise your roof's integrity, even if the storm’s center is far from your home. With wind speeds reaching at least 74 mph in a Category 1 storm, and rainfall totals often exceeding 6 inches per hour, your roof faces serious risks. Here’s how hurricanes can threaten your roof:
High Winds
The most immediate and dangerous threat from a hurricane is the powerful winds that can lift shingles from your roof. As your shingles loosen, your roof’s underlying structure becomes exposed to further damage. Older roofs are especially vulnerable because age and normal wear and tear can weaken their ability to withstand wind gusts.
Heavy Rainfall
With any large storm comes an intense amount of rain. When your shingles are compromised, rainwater can seep into the cracks, leading to leaks that can damage the roofing materials and lead to water damage within your home. Saturated roofing materials can weaken over time, allowing water to pool in certain areas, putting even more pressure on the roof structure.
Fallen Trees and Branches
During a hurricane, high winds can cause trees or large branches to fall onto your roof. The impact can be devastating, causing major damage to your roofing materials or, in worst case scenarios, roof collapse. Even smaller debris like broken limbs can accumulate and add weight to the roof, weakening its overall structure.
Mold & Mildew
If water penetrates your roof due to wind or rain damage, it can lead to mold and mildew growth, especially in areas where water isn’t detected right away. Mold and mildew not only affect your roof but can also infiltrate the home’s insulation and ceiling, leading to health risks and expensive repairs.
Steps to Prepare Your Roof for a Hurricane
Inspect and Repair
The best preparation you can do before hurricane season is to take care of your roof. This means regularly inspecting your roof to ensure it is in peak condition and addressing any damage promptly. A damaged roof is more susceptible to storm damage.
Trim Trees and Branches
Tree branches hanging over or near your roof pose a significant risk during a storm. High winds can snap branches, causing them to fall onto your roof and potentially cause damage. Trimming back large limbs and cutting down weakened trees close to your home reduces the chance of a branch puncturing or collapsing parts of your roof during a hurricane.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Debris buildup in your gutters and downspouts can block the natural flow of water, leading to roof leaks and water pooling during heavy rain. By cleaning them out before a storm, you allow water to be directed away from your roof, preventing unnecessary strain on the structure. A clear gutter system is essential for helping your roof handle the massive amounts of rain that often come with hurricanes.
Secure Loose Items
Loose objects around your yard, like patio furniture, planters or decorations, can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Before the storm hits, make sure to secure or store any outdoor items that could be picked up by strong winds.
Save our Number for 24/7 Storm Damage Assistance
Even with the best preparations, sometimes a hurricane can still cause unexpected roof damage. That’s why it’s important to have a trusted roofing professional on standby for immediate assistance. Elite Roofing and Restoration offers 24/7 emergency storm damage services to help you quickly assess and address any issues caused by high winds, fallen debris, or heavy rains.
What to Do After a Hurricane
Once a hurricane has passed, the safety of your home—especially your roof—becomes a top priority. Taking quick action can help prevent further damage and make the recovery process smoother. Here’s what you should do immediately after the storm:
Perform a Visual Inspection from the Ground:
As soon as it’s safe, assess your roof from the ground. Look for visible signs of damage such as missing or lifted shingles, fallen branches, or debris on the roof. Pay attention to any sagging areas or signs of water pooling, which could indicate underlying issues. Avoid climbing onto the roof yourself, as storm damage may have weakened the structure.
Contact a Professional Roofing Company:
Even if you cannot identify any roof damage, you should schedule a roof inspection after a heavy storm. Trained experts can identify hidden issues like small cracks or leaks that could lead to bigger problems later on. Elite Roofing and Restoration is available for comprehensive post-storm inspections, ensuring your roof is fully evaluated for any potential hazards.
Document Damage for Insurance Claims:
If your roof has sustained damage, take clear photos and videos to document the condition. This will be important for insurance claims. Capture all visible damage, including broken shingles, punctures, and any water damage inside the home. Having thorough documentation can speed up the claims process and help you get the repairs you need.
Temporary Fixes:
If your roof is damaged by something like a fallen tree or punctured shingles, it’s essential to have a professional install a tarp to prevent further damage. Many insurance companies require a professionally installed tarp to approve claims, so this step is crucial in protecting your home and securing coverage. Avoid climbing on the roof yourself—Elite Roofing and Restoration can safely and quickly install tarps to meet insurance requirements and keep your roof protected until repairs are made.
Schedule Roof Repairs:
Once your roof has been assessed, schedule any necessary repairs quickly. After a major storm, roofing companies often experience a surge in calls, so it’s essential to secure your place in line. The sooner your roof is fixed, the less likely it is to experience further damage from future storms or rain.
Stay Prepared for the Next Storm
Hurricanes may not be frequent in Central and Northern Georgia, but when they do strike, they can cause serious damage to your roof. By understanding the threats hurricanes pose, preparing ahead of time, and taking swift action after a storm, you can help protect your home and avoid costly repairs. Whether you need an inspection, emergency tarp installation, or long-term repairs, Elite Roofing and Restoration is here to provide 24/7 assistance. Don't wait until the next storm—make sure your roof is ready to weather whatever comes your way.
Elite Roofing and Restoration is your source for quality roof repair and replacement.
In addition to roof replacements and repairs, both commercial and residential, we offer a considerable list of additional home repair services to assist you with any general construction needs you may have.
Contact us today to schedule your no-hassle, complimentary roof inspection today.
