As of the time of this writing, we’re just two weeks away from the statistical peak of the Atlantic hurricane season on September 15th, and the season has already broken records, including the earliest-forming storms and one of the strongest storms on record to strike the U.S. mainland — Hurricane Laura. Forecasters are watching for further tropical development as at least three systems at various stages are still swirling in the Atlantic Ocean. It goes without saying that we’ve been hit pretty hard, and we still have a long way to go in terms of an extremely active hurricane season.
Above all else, business owners in the Sunshine State should be reviewing the plan they have in place to protect their building from storm damage and prevent roof leaks in Tampa throughout the hurricane season. In this brief article, we’ll review what steps you should take to prepare your commercial roof to be able to withstand an extremely active hurricane season, as well as some of the most common roof repairs we see following a hurricane.
Related: Greatest Benefits of Hurricane Resistant Roofing
Tips to Prepare Your Roof For an Upcoming Hurricane
Depending on its size and strength, a hurricane can pose a wide variety of hazards to the structural integrity and lifespan of your commercial roof, including high winds, torrential rain, flash flooding, fallen debris, and more. It’s not uncommon for sections of your commercial roof to be torn away, exposing vulnerable components of the roofing system and the interior of your building. Your roof may also puncture, break, sag, or weaken beneath the force of ponding water or tree limbs. Fortunately, there are measures you can take right now to make sure your commercial roof is in the best position possible to withstand an active hurricane season.
Start by partnering with a commercial roofer in Tampa like Aderhold Roofing, who can perform an inspection of your roof and perform any necessary repairs that may be weakening the integrity of your roof prior to the hurricane. He or she will also confirm that any gutters and drainpipes are free of obstructions like leaves and dirt, able to drain properly, and are appropriately anchored to the roof. Once any necessary repairs have been made in a timely manner and you have ensured your gutters are poised to handle torrential rainfall, you can cover any skylights with plywood, make sure all of your documentation like before photos are in an easily accessible location, and ensure all roof-mounted equipment is tightly secured.
Related: Hurricane Tips from Your Tampa Roofing Contractor
Common Post-Hurricane Roof Repairs
From a minor commercial roof leak in Tampa to missing, loose, or damaged shingles, there’s no shortage of damage a hurricane might wreak on your commercial roof. Rather than attempt to make these repairs yourself, it’s best to consult a roofing professional with years of experience in the industry handling post-hurricane repairs. The most common repairs we make following a hurricane in Tampa are related to clogged gutters and downspouts, water damage, missing or damaged shingles, and missing or shifted flashing. This is unsurprising given the sheer amount of high wind, heavy rain, and fallen debris your roof will likely endure during a hurricane. To ensure the best possible outcome for the structural integrity of your building and lifespan of your commercial roof, consult Aderhold Roofing to perform an inspection and conduct any necessary repairs as efficiently as possible.
To speak with a commercial roofer in Tampa, or to schedule a consultation, please submit our contact request form.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional counsel.