It’s June 1, 2022 and hurricane season is officially here – and it will be until November 30, 2022. As property owners, we understand the inherent risks that come with living in Northwest Florida during hurricane season. What most property owners do not know, however, are the steps you can take to improve your overall hurricane preparedness. It’s not too late to consider the following:

There are steps you can take to improve your overall hurricane preparedness.

Request a hurricane season roof inspection

A professional roofer is your roof’s first line of defense during hurricane season. Scheduling a roof inspection may uncover damage from prior events, including roof vents, roof shingles, soffit boards and fascia. In more severe cases, the roof inspection may show structural damage and leaks not yet inside the structure, which property owners are unaware of. 

Complete routine maintenance

Routine maintenance, including cleaning your gutters, downspouts and roof valleys are also critical in hurricane season preparedness. It is also important to trim any overhanging tree limbs, which could cause significant damage to your roof structure, should they succumb to wind damage during a hurricane. 

Confirm your roof’s structural integrity

Florida’s administrative code (15C-1.0104) defines installation standards for anchors and tie-downs. When your structure was built, the builder was required to be in compliance with the latest building codes, confirmed at time of inspection. It’s possible, over time, for issues to arise with these components, which strengthen the connection between trusses and structural elements of the property. Regularly inspecting tie-downs for corrosion or other damage will help ensure hurricane preparedness. 

Address required roof repairs

It goes without saying it is important to complete any necessary roof repairs before a storm. Even the smallest issues with your roof can become major issues during a hurricane.

Confirm your property insurance

Consult with your insurance provider and make sure you have adequate protections in the event your structure is damaged during a storm. Most insurance policies in the United States will not cover flooding and may not cover other hurricane damage. It’s important to understand your policy and what is covered, so you are not blindsided to learning something like storm related flooding is not covered. 

Buy a tarp

If you have the room to store a tarp, buying one and doing so is not a bad idea in your hurricane preparedness. After a storm causing widespread damage there will be a run on tarps. If you have one on-hand, a roofing contractor may be able to get your roof temporarily covered quicker than having to wait for tarp inventory to restock.   

McDaniel Roofing, LLC is a fully licensed and insured local business, founded by Florida Deputy Sheriff Alex “JT” McDaniel, offering residential and commercial roofing services throughout Northwest Florida. McDaniel Roofing is proud to offer discounts to First Responders, Nurses, Teachers and active/veteran United States Military service members. Contact McDaniel Roofing today for your hassle free, no obligation estimate. LIC#CCC1333674