Caring for Your Roof During Storm Season
Here in Georgia we can get storms fairly regularly, so it’s good to be prepared and know how to care for your home’s roof to prevent storm damage and know what to do should any occur.
Regular roof maintenance is the best preventative measure for any roof damage, though there are some other steps you can take to protect your roof during a storm. Below are some tips to help you keep your roof safe during inclement weather.
Trim Tree Branches
Tree branches are normally the biggest cause of damage to roofs during a storm. If one falls on your house it can cause severe structural damage to your roof.
If there are low hanging tree branches or any branches that hang over your home it’s a good idea to have them trimmed to eliminate the risk of them falling on your home.
Regular Roof Inspections
Storms aside, it’s always a good idea to perform regular roof inspections and get at least one professional inspection each year, to make sure everything is in good working order. If you’re inspecting on your own, It’s advised to perform a ground level inspection of your roof as opposed to climbing up onto it to avoid safety hazards.
Having a professional roofer inspect your home each year is an important part of roof maintenance. A good inspection will include photos and detailed information on any areas of concern. Our annual inspections here at Peach State Roofing are just $79 and include a drone scan. A detailed aerial photo report and roof analysis are provided at end of the inspection.
Keep the Gutters Clean
If you identify any potential hazards on your roof you should address these as soon as possible. If there’s any debris on the roof or in the gutters you should remove this as soon as you can to avoid any damage and to ensure that excessive rainfall can flow away from the rooftop.
In the Event of Storm Damage
If your roof should succumb to any storm damage, you should first perform a simple visual inspection from the ground. You should not attempt to get onto your roof if you suspect damage as you could worsen the effects and you’re at risk of injuring yourself.
You should call a certified roofing contractor to come and assess the damage and perform any necessary repairs. It’s good to call as quickly as possible if your roof should become damaged in a storm as there are likely many other homeowners with the same issues that will also be calling local roofing professionals for assistance.
It’s also good to document any damage and contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
WARNING: Be cautious of “Storm Chasers” who typically cold call in neighborhoods that have been affected by storms. These companies are not local and hiring them to replace your roof is extremely risky. Storm Chasers are known to cut corners on their roofing projects, then move on to the next storm affected area before their shoddy work is discovered. Hire a local roofer with the proper certifications, insurance, and warranties for the lowest overall cost and peace of mind for years to come.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Peach State Roofing!