|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
One of your greatest assets is the roof which protects your family and business during hurricane season. With another above-average storm season being predicted this year by national experts including those at Colorado State University, who project 17 named storms, now is the time for action steps.
Advanced Roofing CEO Rob Kornahrens points out that last year’s hurricane season had a record 11 storms making landfall in 2020, including six hurricanes: Hanna, Isaias, Laura, Sally, Delta and Zeta.
“No matter the prediction, it is important to remember that any storm season can deliver many hurricanes that may have a minimum impact, or the reality of only a few storms which result in having one or more hitting the U.S. coast with a huge impact,” explains Kornahrens. “A weak tropical storm making landfall can cause major damage, particularly if it moves slowly and rainfall triggers flooding.”
Even the hurricane experts didn’t predict that 2020 would set the record for the most named storms in a single season. With the start of summer’s rainy season, which is underway now through October, protect homes and buildings where you work, from leaks and damage warning signs, beginning with an inspection. Kornahrens shares his hurricane expertise with the following:
Top 10 Hurricane Season Roofing Tips
- The first step in avoiding roof leaks and storm damage is to have a preventative maintenance plan and to follow inspection protocols. “At least 95% of the roofing systems we’ve seen fail were due to lack of maintenance and poor workmanship during installation,” says Kornahrens.
- Perform repairs now to fix common issues like damage to the membrane, sealants and drainage systems.
- Clear all gutters, downspouts, and drains of debris that can cause a blockage.
- Secure rooftop mechanical equipment with hurricane straps. “A good 70% of the roof damage we see following a hurricane is due to loose HVAC equipment rolling across the membrane that can cause many small holes,” adds Kornahrens.
- Be sure to trim trees and bushes away from the building by at least three (3) feet to prevent damage to the roof and to reduce leaves in the drainage system.
- Cover older skylights with wood or a metal cage to protect from flying debris.
- Make sure the roof hatch and roof access doors close properly.
- Review your roof warranty and insurance policy to ensure it’s up-to-date and that you understand the coverage provided. If needed, get clarification on your policy before a storm hits.
- Update and test your hurricane plan. Share emergency contacts with everyone under the roof. Important contacts should include the roofer, water restoration company and insurance provider.
- Service all generators to make sure they are operating at peak performance. Don’t forget to stockpile gasoline ahead of time to avoid long gas lines, and never operate a generator indoors.
Kornahrens points out that it is important to include these Top 10 hurricane tips as part of an annual storm season plan. “It is equally important to be prepared, in advance, for the unexpected impacts of hurricanes by having a post-storm action plan,” he adds.
POST-STORM ACTION STEPS
- Check for roof leaks inside of the building and protect items that can be damaged by water.
- Document damages with photo and video to help facilitate your insurance claim.
- Call your Insurance provider immediately as the claim process can be lengthy.
- Use only the roof system manufacturer’s approved materials in order to protect the roof warranty.
- Repair or Replace? If your roof system suffers more than 25% water damage to the insulation, you should seriously consider replacing the entire roof system.
For more information about Advanced Roofing and their hurricane season plans, visit www.advancedroofing.com or call (800) 638-6869.
