With hurricane season underway and waters in the gulf becoming increasingly warm, it's a good idea to make plans well ahead of the next storm. In Louisiana, we know it's not if but when. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s website, “Forecasters at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center, a division of the National Weather Service, are predicting above-average hurricane activity this year — which would make it the seventh consecutive above-average hurricane season. NOAA’s outlook for the 2022 Atlantic hurricane season, which extends from June 1 to November 30, predicts a 65% chance of an above-normal season, a 25% chance of a near-normal season and a 10% chance of a below-normal season. For the 2022 hurricane season, NOAA is forecasting a likely range of 14 to 21 named storms (winds of 39 mph or higher), of which 6 to 10 could become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or higher), including 3 to 6 major hurricanes (category 3, 4 or 5; with winds of 111 mph or higher). NOAA provides these ranges with a 70% confidence.” We all know that heavy rains and high winds can create severe property damage, especially to homes with compromised roofs. You can take several precautions before a storm hits to ensure you are fully prepared before the next storm hits. Here are some things you can do to ensure your home is as secure as possible.
Do a visual inspection of your roof. Look for indications of a compromised roof before the storm. Missing or broken shingles will become even more damaged when a hurricane hits. The best thing to do is address these issues immediately once you see a problem. Shingle debris along the perimeter of your home indicates that you need a professional's help to assess the situation. An experienced professional should repair your roof as soon as possible to avoid future damage.
Check your trees. In the path of a storm, overhanging tree limbs pose a serious threat to your home. Heavy rains will add weight to branches and make them even more susceptible to breaking and falling on your home. Hurricane strength winds will turn branches into projectiles that can damage your roof and other parts of your home or your neighbor's home. Branches that come in contact with your home's roof during a storm can easily damage and pull up shingles. Inspect large trees near your home to make sure they are healthy and not susceptible to falling on your home. High winds can topple any size tree, so it's best to look for any indicators that your tree is not thriving. You may want to call in a tree professional to do an inspection and offer recommendations.
Clean gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters and downspouts prevent water from flowing off your roof and can bring on big problems during and after a storm. Water that becomes trapped can damage not only your roof but the structure of your home as well. Water-logged surfaces will quickly develop mold in the aftermath of a storm.
Schedule a roof inspection. If your roof is old or you suspect problems but can't tell from a visual assessment, it's time to schedule a roof inspection. We will thoroughly examine all exterior and interior areas and tell you if there are issues that need immediate attention.
If you need to replace your roof, we will offer many options, including the latest materials designed especially for high winds. We'll find a roofing material that meets needs and budget - from composite to concrete-tile shingles. We'll also explain in detail the steps we will take to replace your roof using proven techniques and the most durable materials on the market today.
Be proactive. Do your research now and have a plan in case you need help after a storm. If your roof experiences damage during a storm, be aware of fly-by-night operators who swarm to impacted areas with limited experience and no insurance. These out-of-towners will do shoddy and incomplete work and often disappear after the job is done. Remember, do not sign any blank contracts, and make sure the people you hire are licensed and insured.
Your best course of action is to have a licensed roofer pre-selected well ahead of the storm. Southside Roofing has a Preferred Client Program that offers priority service if the storm affects your roof. Once you are on our list, we will check in with you after a storm to make sure you and your family are safe and go out to you to access any damage the storm has caused to your home. In addition, Southside Roofing has someone on staff who can help you with insurance claims if your home suffers any damage. Get On the List by filling out a simple form on the Weather Update page of our website.
If you have any questions about preparing your roof for storm season, please give us a call at 337 ROOFING / 337 766-3464.