10 Tips to Prep Your Roof for Storm Season (And Minimise Damage)

During the storm season, the wind will be blasting and pouring down with rain, hail down and throwing debris around— all these things are enough to cause a real danger to the integrity of your roof. By consulting Kona roofing experts and being prepared in advance, you will be able to mitigate the danger of damage to your roof considerably, avoid expensive fixes, and secure the safety of household members. In this article, we will discuss the ten essential tips that we have to be prepared with, incorporating the best practices of professionals in the roofing industry nationwide.

1. Professionally Inspected Roof Appointment 

 It all begins with a professional roof inspection to help identify the weaknesses such as worn-down shingles, weak flashing, or soft spots that do not always show up to the untrained eye  

The importance of it is:

Certified roofing professionals aid in identifying and reporting small problems that usually end up being serious problems when exposed to storm pressure  

What should be done:

• Call for professionals to check prior to storm season (early spring or late summer).

• Inquire the inspector regarding the poor decking, the condition of the underlayment and flashings.

• Ask to get a comprehensive report inclusive of photos and suggested repair work.

2. Replace or Fix Broken Shingles

Whenever areas of weakness have been identified, it is vital to take immediate corrective measures. Strong winds can also uproot damaged/cracked/missing shingles allowing moisture to penetrate the roof structure.

Action to be undertaken:

• Immediately replace any curled, loose or missing shingles.

• Install hurricane or tornado-resistant shingles in areas that are prone to hurricanes or tornadoes.

• In case your roof is approaching its 2025-year lifecycle, you should think of re-roofing using higher wind-rated materials.

3. Clean and Safe Gutters & Downspouts

Overflowing gutters lead to the collection of water on the roof- a nurturing area of leakages, decay and structural collapse  

Pro tips:

•  Clean debris out of the gutters and the downspouts.

• Repair drooping gutters--strap them at 2-3 ft. Intervals.

• Think of using gutter guards to minimize the accumulation of debris.

4. Prune Overhanging Trees and Branches

One of the most frequent causes of roof damage is branches that rub against shingles or break in the process of a storm.

What you can do:

• Have trees trimmed to keep a 6-10 ft clearance of the roof.

• Cut off dead branches that can fall during strong winds.

• Keep track of emerging growth during the season.

5. Safe Flashing and Roof Penetrations

The most frequent weak points are the edges of roofs around skylights, chimneys, vents and plumbing stacks. 

What you can do:

• Use roofing cement or new metal flashings to reinforce the flashing.

• Use good exterior-grade sealant to fill gaps.

• Check and secure every pipe collar and vent seal.

6. Nail Reinforce Roof Connections with Straps or Clips

Hurricane straps or metal clips stiffen the connection of your roof to wall framing- to help resist uplift due to high winds.

Considerations:

• This is particularly useful in older houses or near the sea.

• Needs the help of licensed practitioners.

• Pay a one-time investment and receive improved protection and benefits regarding insurance. 

7. Install Secondary Water Barrier (Underlayment)

The infiltration of water can be prevented by the use of a self-stick underlayment which is placed under the shingles in case there is a separation between them due to wind-blown rain.

What you can do: 

• Request synthetic or peel-and-stick underlayment at the weak points (eaves, valleys, gables).

• These membranes provide overprotection and calm when the weather is severe.

8. Take Photos of the Condition of Your Roof before the Storm

Recommends clear dated pictures of the roof and the damaged parts which can assist in insurance claims.

What you can do: 

• Shoot wide-angle ground-level shots and zoom-in shots.

• Date and location label pictures.

• Put them in the cloud folder or album.

9. Check Insures

It is critical to be familiar with your homeowner insurance policy- particularly storm deductibles and the limits of coverage.

What you can do: 

• Consider looking at wind and hail as well as hurricane deductibles.

• Ask whether upgrades (e.g. hurricane straps, impact-resistant shingles) are eligible to be discounted.

• Maintain copies of all inspection report and receipts which can be used as evidence during claims.

10. Have an Emergency Roofing Plan

With all preparation done, sometimes storms can damage the roof. Have the emergency action plan ready, according to roofing experts. 

Be prepared:

• Tarps, ropes, and roof cement should always be kept at hand.

• Be aware of when and how to tarp around leaks (climbing on a wet roof is never allowed).

• Keep the contact details of a reputable roofing contractor who offers emergency services.

• Prepare a family emergency kit (flashlight, batteries, first aid).

Bonus Tips from the Experts

You may further enhance the strength of your roof against calamity by observing:

• Know Your Local Climate

 Regional insight informs that storm prep differs by locality.

•Coastal areas: ratchet straps, storm shutters.

• Inland: hail-resistant materials and impact-rated shingles.

• Inspect & Insulate the Attic

Cenvar Roofing emphasises the need for attic ventilation and insulation to keep moisture at bay and prevent the formation of ice dams.

• Check if there is enough ventilation and insulation.

• Seal up attic air leaks to improve energy efficiency and the roof's lifespan.

• Switch to Impact-Resistant Materials

sturdy roofing materials can greatly cut down on storm damage.

• Use shingles rated Class 4 (impact resistant) or metal roofing.

• An optional protective coating can be applied for additional protection.

When to Call the Experts

A licensed roofing contractor should be called if these signs occur:

• A series of missing or curled shingles

• Flashings that have been lifted or vents that have been damaged

• Sagging areas, leaking, or signs of rot

• Roof older than 15-20 years with no stormproof upgrade 

Storm-chasing or an insurance-prep company would be the ones to have on speed dial during the storm season.  

Conclusion: 

Prevention is served by roof inspection, repair, upgrading the structure, and planning for eventualities.

Investing time and diligence today can bring peace of mind tomorrow. Your roof is more than just shingles—it’s a vital shield. Prep it right, and it will shield you too.