How to Prepare a Roof for Hurricane Season
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and normal annual rainfall at NOAA's Lakeland station is 56.82 inches. Preparation matters most for an older roof, one with past leaks or repairs, or a home left empty for weeks.
Prepare the Roof Before June 1
Get the roof ready
Before June, have a roofing contractor check for loose shingles, worn flashing and cracked vent boots, and repair them under a city permit. Trim branches over the roof and clear debris from valleys and roof edges.
Signs of storm damage
Shingles in the yard, lifted or creased tabs, loose metal at the edges, new ceiling stains and attic drips can mean storm damage. Never climb onto a wet roof.
After a storm passes
Photograph the damage from the ground, note the storm date, and protect belongings inside. Call your insurer, and remember that Florida law bars contractors from offering to waive your deductible for an inspection or claim.
Call a roofing contractor before a small leak spreads.
Before June, have a roofing contractor check for loose shingles, worn flashing and cracked vent boots, and repair them under a city permit. Trim branches over the roof and clear debris from valleys and roof edges.
Signs of storm damage
Shingles in the yard, lifted or creased tabs, loose metal at the edges, new ceiling stains and attic drips can mean storm damage. Never climb onto a wet roof.
After a storm passes
Photograph the damage from the ground, note the storm date, and protect belongings inside. Call your insurer, and remember that Florida law bars contractors from offering to waive your deductible for an inspection or claim.
Call a roofing contractor before a small leak spreads.