Severe weather can wreak havoc on your roof, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards. To protect your home and your wallet, it’s important to learn how to properly maintain and prepare your roof for severe weather. In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the necessary information you need to know to weatherproof your roof and keep your home safe from the elements.
Risks of Not Maintaining Your Roof
If you neglect to properly maintain and inspect your roof, it can be vulnerable to the effects of severe weather. High winds can cause shingles to come loose and blow off, leaving your home exposed to the elements. Heavy rains can soak through the roof and cause water damage and flooding. Hail can dent and chip shingles, leaving your roof more vulnerable to water damage. Snow and ice can weigh down your roof, leading to structural damage.
Not only can severe weather damage your roof, but it can also cause safety hazards. When the elements wear down your roof, it can become unstable and lead to costly repairs. If you neglect to inspect and repair your roof, you could be putting yourself and your family at risk.
It’s also important to inspect your gutters for debris and damage. Clogged guttering can cause water to back up and damage your roof. Leaves and other debris can also block the flow of water, leading to water damage and potential flooding.
Preparing Your Roof for Severe Weather
Before severe weather hits, it’s important to take the necessary steps to prepare your roof. Here are some tips to help you weatherproof your roof and keep your home safe:
- Inspect your roof for damage. Check for loose or missing shingles, dents, and chips. It’s also important to clean your guttering and remove any leaves or other debris that could block the flow of water.
- Replace any missing or damaged shingles. Unless you’re comfortable doing this yourself, you should hire a reputable contractor like APEX Roofing to do it for you.
- Put on a waterproof sealant to your roof. This will help protect your roof from water damage and make it more resistant to the elements.
- Install guttering and downspouts. Guttering and downspouts will help to direct water away from your home and protect your roof from water damage.
- Trim trees and other vegetation near your home. This will help to reduce the risk of debris and branches falling onto your roof during a storm.
Roofing Materials and Their Durability
When selecting materials for your roof, it’s important to consider the durability of the material. Different materials offer different levels of protection against the elements. Here are some of the most common roofing materials and their durability:
- Asphalt shingles – Asphalt shingles are a popular and affordable option for domestic homeowners. They are relatively easy to install and offer good protection against rain and snow.
- Metal roofing – Metal roofing is a great option for those looking for a durable and long-lasting roof. Metal roofs are resistant to fire, hail, and strong winds.
- Clay tiles – Clay tiles are a great option for those looking for a roof that will last for many years. Clay tiles are resistant to fire, hail, and strong winds.
- Slate – Slate is an expensive but durable option. It is resistant to fire, hail, and strong winds.
- Felt roofing – Felt roofing is almost always applied on flat roofing and it is great for rainy and stormy weathers as it is one of the most waterproof and durable materials.
What is your next move?
Maintaining and preparing your roof for severe weather is an important step in protecting your home and keeping your family safe. By inspecting your roof for damage, replacing missing or damaged shingles, applying a waterproof sealant, installing guttering and downspouts, and trimming nearby trees, you can weatherproof your roof and ensure your home is well-protected against the elements. Therefore, it is highly recommended to hire professionals for the job as it can be somewhat risky to attempt it on your own.
AL King Roofing, offers a wide range of roofing services, including inspections and maintenance. With over 45 years of experience, they ensure the most competitive prices by utilising a skilled and compliant team for safe and trustworthy maintenance.
