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How to Prevent Hurricane Roof Damage
Beat Hurricanes by Being Prepared
Introduction:
If you live on the East
coast between Florida and Maine or the gulf cost
you are subject to hurricanes. Although
approximately a dozen hurricanes are generated each
year only about four actually come ashore and
damage property. Your roof takes the brunt of a
hurricane which often packs winds in excess of 150
mph. These winds create an uplift effect that can
pull off roof shingles, tiles, or even the
underlying roof sheathing causing tens of thousands
of dollars of destruction and the need for a new
roof.
If your roof is in good condition and well
maintained it is better able to fend off high
hurricane winds. To determine the condition of your
roof it should be inspected at least once a year
either by yourself or a professional roof
inspector. It will cost about $150 for a
professional to inspect your roof.
Look for curled, loose, or missing shingles or roof
tiles. Pay close attention to the edges of the
roof. Any weak spots will allow high winds to work
the roofing loose creating a domino effect that can
really destroy the entire roof.
If you have access to your attic you need to
inspect the roof from the inside as well as the
outside. Look for points of light coming through
the roof. That light means there are gaps that can
let in wind and water. Examine the rafters or
trusses for protruding nail tips which can indicate
that the plywood sheathing might not be properly
secured.
Toughen up the roofing to make it less susceptible
to hurricane damage by following these tips:
·
Apply roofing cement under shingle tabs, using a
caulking gun or run a bead of construction adhesive
along the seams between the rafters and sheathing
to provide added strength.
·
Apply roofing cement to the edges of the roofing
where sides of shingles are loose.
·
Strengthen the roof structure by installing metal
“hurricane” clips or straps that connect your roof
to the sidewalls. This added structural support
makes it less likely that your roof will be torn
off by the high winds of a hurricane.
You can reduce hurricane wind damage to your roof
by preparing for a hurricane. Many people that live
in the strike area of hurricanes wait until the
last minute before thinking about getting ready for
the storm. Stay ready by inspecting your roof once
a year, preferably in the spring before the
hurricane season begins.
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