If you had luck on your side, you home wasn’t affected by the recent storms that hit Florida, but that may not be the case when severe weather strikes again. If you want to safeguard your home against future storms, it’s wise to start with the roof, since it’s one of your home’s most vulnerable structural components. Here are some recommended ways you can get prepared:
Have Your Roof Inspected
A thorough annual inspection by an experienced Miami roof repair and replacement professional is vital to protect your home against the effects of severe weather. Your roofing pro can identify existing or developing issues, and provide you with a detailed report and an estimate for any needed repairs. An inspection can also tell you roughly how long your roof will last, which allows you to investigate your options and make choices that provide better protection, like wind-resistant shingles or metal roofing, and opting for an extended manufacturer’s warranty.
Pay Attention to Your Gutters
The downpours that accompany storms can wreak havoc on your home’s roof, siding, landscaping, and foundation if your gutters are clogged or in poor condition. To ensure that rain is safely redirected away from your home, clean out accumulated leaves and other debris regularly. Make sure the troughs are secured well to the fascia, too, and the downspouts are properly attached and positioned so water drains well away from your foundation.
Keep Your Trees Trimmed
High winds can drive a broken overhanging tree limb through your roof, leaving your attic and finished living spaces exposed to water damage. You can avoid this kind of costly damage by having tall trees trimmed routinely so the limbs are at least 10 feet back from your roof.
Invest in Hurricane Straps
Talk to your roofer about installing hurricane straps or brackets/clips to anchor the roof trusses or rafters to your wall top plates. This can be easily done when you’re having a new roof installed, but it can also be accomplished by accessing the necessary areas via the soffits. Some homes have straps on every second truss, and code may only require that you have corner straps, but your roof will be less vulnerable to wind uplift if they’re installed on every truss.
For personalized advice about ways to prepare your home for future storms, contact us at A-1 Property Services, your trusted Miami roof repair, and replacement expert.
Read: How to Prioritize Repairs After a Hurricane