Roofing Guide
Your roofing system is in need of protection from the harsh months during hurricane season. Whether a tropical storm or a high level hurricane, your roof should be protected before the season begins to prevent any damage. Following the hurricanes of 2004 and 2005, surveys showed that 95% of the people who filed insurance claims had experienced some damage to their roofs. Additionally, roof damage can lead to future problems such as water damage and mold overgrowth.
Shingles
The newest asphalt shingles offer protection from high winds up to 150 mph; however, older models only protect in winds up to 50-60 mph, which isn’t that much for any roofing. Furthermore, six-nailed shingles are far more effective at withstanding hurricane force winds than four-nailed shingles. Strong winds actually lift the shingle from its base exposing internal structures to a higher risk of water penetration and damage.
To reduce the removal of shingles by high winds, apply roof adhesive to any loose shingles and use pressure to affix them to the underside. This process should be performed at least 2-4 weeks prior to a storm to give the adhesive time to cure. This is a crucial preparation you should take to prevent damage to your roofing system.
Reinforcements
Sometimes you just need to add a little reinforcement to your roofing system. Contact a professional roofing contractor if you are unsure and ask if your roof needs to be reinforced. If it does, consider hiring a professional. If you want a DIY project, you can install 2×4 pieces of wood and overlap them over the trusses. It’s important to leave about 1 1/2 feet of space in between each.
Keeping your roof strapped down during a hurricane can not only protect your home, but also everyone living inside. In addition, a reinforced roof will also protect your neighbors from flying roof debris should pieces break off due to high winds. Hurricane straps are another type of reinforcement you can use to protect your roofing system. Hurricane straps are metal strips which can adhere to almost any type of roof to keep the roof attached to the walls of the house.
New Roof
If you feel your roofing project is more headache than its worth and a new roof is the best step, consider preventative measures. The biggest issues with roofing during a storm occur when the roof sheathing is lost. When this happens, water can destroy the interior of your home or the inner walls can get blown out. To help protect against these disasters, use additional fasteners to the decking before you install your roof. You can also add tie straps to your attic to further reinforce strength. If you decide to hire a roofing contractor, inquire about extra precautions you can take to reinforce the roof and make sure any work you do is consistent with local building codes.
Perform Research
Your roofing project should include proper research. Look up the building codes in your area and see what types of measures the government suggests to prepare your roof for hurricane season. Many times, only a small adjustment can equate to a more protected roof and a safer home.
Seek Help
If you choose to seek the advice of a professional roofing company, please contact Mr. Roof at 1-800-4-MR-ROOF.
Mr. Roof’s roofing contractors are skilled in roof installation, inspection, maintenance, restoration, repair, and roof replacement. Click to learn more about roofing.
