Hurricanes & Roofing: What You Need To Know

Roofing Tips

hurricane roofing

Living in Florida means that we are no strangers to the hassle that hurricane season brings, from preparation to maintenance to repairs. At Aabco Roofing we believe prevention is better than cure – but we will happily do either! Here are eight things that you need to know about hurricane roofing before a storm hits.

What’s In A Hurricane?

The extent of the damage that a hurricane inflicts your home depends on the type of hurricane you are dealing with. Each storm category has its own conditions – which will impact how different roof types handle the onslaught.

Hurricane categories are determined by wind speeds, as follows:

  • Category 1: 74-95 mph
  • Category 2: 96-110 mph
  • Category 3: 111-129 mph
  • Category 4: 130-156 mph
  • Category 5: 157+ mph

Roof damage is nearly inevitable during a strong hurricane, but you can minimize this damage by having the correct measures in place and by ensuring your roof is properly maintained.

Types Of Roofing

Different roofing types have pros and cons when it comes to hurricane protection. Here we’ve compiled a handy list of some roofing types for you to refer back to when you need it.

Shingles

Below are some of the pros and cons associated with shingle roofs.

Pros

  • Wood shingles – good protection against hail, aesthetically pleasing
  • Asphalt shingles – lightweight, easy installation, low cost

Cons

  • Weathering and aging decrease the effectiveness of shingles against high winds
  • Wood shingles may not conform to local codes

Tiles

Below are some of the pros and cons associated with tile roofs.

Pros

  • Popular roofing choice in some areas
  • Available in clay or concrete
  • Concrete is typically much more durable than clay, and can last 25 to 30 years if maintained correctly

Cons

  • Some types of tiled roofing don’t withstand hailstorms very well
  • Clay tiles in particular can chip or break extremely easily
  • Tiles are heavy
  • Labor costs can be relatively high because they take longer to install

Protecting Your Roof

It takes a single storm to wreak havoc on your home, so it is important to prepare your roof for harsh weather as much as you can. Here’s how you can make sure your roof is hurricane-ready, all year round:

1. Preventative Roof Maintenance

A properly maintained roof will have fewer issues following the high winds and hail that come with hurricanes. Protecting your home from leaks and damage means yearly inspections and maintenance.

2. Trim The Trees, Please

If your home or company building has a ton of foliage near the roof – have it trimmed when hurricane season approaches. This prevents damage to the roofing system and reduces the amount of leaves that end up in the drainage system!

3. Repair Right Away

If an issue pops up during a routine inspection, you notice a roof leak, or if you see shingles falling off your roof, call in a roofing expert from Aabco Roofing as soon as you can and have it repaired. Putting off repairs will only do your roof harm, and issues tend to escalate when left alone.

4. Debris? Get Rid Of It!

If you notice debris in your gutters, in downspouts, in drains, or on top of your roof, have it removed immediately. Leaving it will harm the integrity of your roofing system.

5. Have Skylights Covered

There are wooden and metal cages designed to cover older skylights, which protects them from flying debris.

6. Insurance & Warranty

Be sure to review your roof warranty as well as your insurance policy and check that everything is up-to-date. Also make sure you understand the coverage that is provided – don’t be afraid to ask questions and get clarification on any paperwork you need to.

7. Stick To The Code

The protection that your home provides from a storm is only as good as the measures you have in place. There are strict building codes that the Florida Building Commission has in place to ensure your home is hurricane-ready.

8. Have A Plan

For the roofs of commercial buildings especially – it is vital you have a hurricane plan in place. Make sure your colleagues have emergency contacts saved, including:

  • Water restoration company
  • Insurance provider
  • Aabco Roofing (1-954-426-8500)

Hurricane Protection With Aabco Roofing

If you are looking to be proactive against the approaching hurricane season, contact us today and let us get your roof hurricane ready. No matter what roofing situation you are under, we will work hard to get on top of it and provide you with the end results you are looking for!

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