Now that autumn is officially here, all the fall festivities are in full swing! Unfortunately, along with the season’s excitement, storm season is just around the corner. Fall weather brings strong winds, heavy rain, and hail that can wreak extreme havoc on your home’s first line of defense – the roof.
Preparing for storm season can be challenging without the right knowledge and precautions. Fortunately, Grip-Rite® has you covered with storm preparedness tips. Recent advances in underlayment technologies, like the ShingleLayment®-HT, ensure your roof is ready to weather any storm.
Preparing your roof for the challenges of storm season can be daunting, especially if you are unsure where to begin. A great starting point for storm prep is a roof inspection. Inspections allow you to clear debris, address damage, and find areas of concern that could become a future issue.
When performing the inspection, keep a checklist to help simplify the process. This will allow you to stay organized and guarantee no issues are overlooked. Performing annual inspections are crucial for the strength of your roof. A structurally sound roof protects your home and provides peace of mind, knowing your roof is secure against the elements.
Before climbing up your ladder to begin the inspection, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
If you’re uncomfortable climbing onto your roof or there are complex factors, consider hiring a professional to complete your inspection and any additional roof work.
Shingles are vital in protecting your home from water damage and leaks. Damage isn’t always apparent, so a close inspection might be necessary. There are several kinds of damage to look out for.
By staying vigilant about the common types of damage and replacing them when needed, you can significantly limit future roof problems.
Overhanging trees and branches are a common source of damage during and after a storm. If any large branches seem close enough to fall on your roof, it’s best to trim them back.
While most branches can be removed safely from the ground, larger branches may require professional help. When in doubt, call a licensed pro.
As you wrap up your inspection, make sure the gutter is clear of debris. Removing branches, leaves, and anything else that may have accumulated over the year ensures water can drain properly. Poor drainage can lead to water damage and an expensive roof repair bill.
Now, with a complete inspection, it’s time to begin making any necessary repairs and adding storm preparation upgrades to keep your roof in top shape. Replacing roofing shingles, sealants, and flashings are just some of the repairs and roofing maintenance to consider for the soon-approaching storm and hurricane season.
During the inspection, you may have encountered some shingles that were either damaged or loose. Broken shingles can lead to extreme water damage not only to your roof’s exterior but also to your home’s interior.
Before storm season begins, you should consider replacing all damaged shingles and secure any loose ones with sturdy steel metal cap nails from Grip-Rite. Metal cap nails are excellent for nailing roof underlayments and applying roofing shingles so your home can stay secure all season long.
Along with shingles, flashings and sealants play a key role in your roof’s structural integrity. They help significantly decrease the likelihood of water entering your home through the roof, so reinforcing them prior to storms is a common occurrence.
Securing your roof is just half the battle of storm protection, once your roof is restored back to its former glory it is time to make some finishing Grip-Rite upgrades!
As your roof preparations wind, the next step is to transition into storm prep to fully secure your roof during most storms. Here are some proactive steps to take to keep your roof intact during the weather.
If you’re opting to replace all your shingles, consider also using a quality weather resistive barrier. Weather barriers help protect the integrity of your roof giving it further protection from the elements.
Most barriers are made of synthetic materials to ensure that your roofing can withstand even the toughest weather conditions. ShingleLayment®-HT from Grip-Rite is the perfect combination of weather-resistant materials designed to withstand ice and water in any condition.
Another tip for storm preparedness is to review your current insurance policy. Read through your policy to fully grasp what is covered and that all items are up to date before the first big storm of the season.
If anything happens to your roof, be sure to take pictures both before and after a storm. This will help save you time should you need to submit a claim. Even with the extra security additions to your roof, you can never be too prepared for a storm.
When preparing your roof for storm season, choose products that offer the best protection. Grip-Rite® ShingleLayment®-HT is a trusted option that provides superior moisture control and peace of mind. Its advanced design allows your roof to handle the harshest weather conditions.
Get your roof ready for storm season with Grip-Rite ShingleLayment®-HT.
