Living in Charleston, SC, you know the area can be vulnerable to severe weather conditions such as strong winds, hail, and hurricanes. Storms can cause significant damage to your home’s roof, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
However, there are ways to protect your roof from storm damage and steps you can take if your roof does sustain damage. Keep reading to learn how experts recommend preparing for the hurricane season and the best way to respond when a storm leaves you in need of home roof repair.
How to Prevent Storm Damage
Preventing storm damage to your home’s roof starts with proper maintenance. Regular roof inspections can help identify any issues that could cause further damage during a storm. During an inspection, you should look for missing, cracked, or curled shingles and signs of wear and tear.
It’s important to ensure that your gutters are clean and free of debris. During a storm, clogged gutters can cause water to back up and damage your roof. Consider installing gutter guards to prevent debris from collecting in your gutters and downspouts.
Another way to protect your roof from storm damage is to trim overhanging tree branches. High winds can cause branches to break off and fall onto your roof, causing damage. Keep branches at least six feet away from your roof.
In areas prone to hurricanes, like Charleston, homeowners may consider installing hurricane straps or clips to secure the roof to the walls of their homes. The straps can help prevent the roof from lifting off during high winds.
Steps to Take for Storm Damage Repair
Taking action quickly is important if your home’s roof sustains storm damage. Ignoring damage from a storm can lead to additional issues and costly repairs.
The first step to repairing your roof is to assess the damage. If it’s safe,visually inspect your roof for any signs of a problem. Look for missing or damaged shingles, dented or cracked flashing, and any signs of water damage.
If you’re unsure whether your roof has sustained damage, it’s best to contact a professional roofer to help you look for damage and assess them. Roofing USA, the premier Charleston roofing company, offers a free inspection for storm damage and can quickly help you identify issues that could leave your home unprotected.
Once you identify the damage, it’s important to make temporary repairs to prevent it from becoming more significant—at least until a professional roofer fixes it for good. Cover any holes or openings in your roof with a tarp or plastic sheeting. These quick repairs can help prevent water from entering your home.
If you have insurance, contact your insurance company to report the damage. They will likely send an adjuster to assess the damage and provide an estimate for repairs.
Lastly, it is also important to choose a reputable roofing contractor to handle your storm damage repair. Look for a company with experience and a good reputation in the community. For example, Roofing USA has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and offers a 10-year workmanship warranty on all new roof installations.
Is it Safe to DIY Minor Home Roof Repairs?
While trying DIY home roof repairs for minor damage may be tempting, it’s important to remember that roof repair is dangerous and challenging. DIY repairs can cause more harm than good, so it’s always best to contact a professional roofing contractor for any roof repair or total replacement.
Repair Storm Damage With a Charleston Roofing Company
Protecting your Charleston home’s roof from storm damage is essential to avoid costly repairs and replacements. Regular roof maintenance, cleaning gutters, trimming tree branches, and securing your roof to the walls of your home, can help prevent issues for your roof when storms come through.
However, if your roof does sustain damage, it’s essential to take swift action. Roofing USA can help you prepare for and respond to roofing issues caused by harsh weather. We can help you protect your home and family and ensure your roof will continue providing the shelter and security you need for years.
Contact Roofing USA and Request a Free Inspection today.
