What Florida Hurricane Season Does to Your Roof

When the next big storm comes your way, is your roof in good shape? You may not be sure what to make of the aftermath of some high winds and rain. Or perhaps you have asked yourself why it is that a good many homeowners in Florida uncover damage long after a hurricane has moved on.

We at Handyman Roofing can tell you all about the toll a hurricane season takes on a roof; in our 45 years of putting the homes and businesses of Florida under our protection we have seen it. For any storm related matters, give us a ring at (866) 738-1287. We are a family concern that has been put to the test for three generations, and you will find us here around the clock when the season demands it.

There is no getting around the fact that a Florida hurricane season is a hard one and your roof will bear it. To stave off the need for major repairs down the line, it helps to be aware of the trouble these storms commonly bring so as to nip it in the bud.

Wind Damage and Shingles Gone Missing

Any storm in this state brings the threat of wind. A gust is enough to tear or loosen shingles from your roof, in some cases an entire section will be peeled back. From the vantage of the ground you might not see if a couple of shingles have gone missing.

The problem is that with just one shingle absent the water gets to the layers below and does its work quickly. We would recommend a professional have a good look after a particularly strong storm, for what is not apparent from underneath can be there all the same.

Leaks and Water Intrusion

Put heavy rain and wind together and they will drive water where it should not be. It is one of the more insidious issues of hurricane season. One day you are fine, the next you are smelling mustiness in the attic or a stain has appeared on the ceiling.

Typical indications of water intrusion are:

• Stains on a wall or ceiling
• Paint peeling by the roofline
• Dampness in the attic
• Warped drywall
• An odor in the house

In most instances the water has been there a while before you spot these things. The sooner you put a stop to a leak the better for your home and your wallet.

Compromised Seals and Flashing

You rely on flashing, the metal at the edges and joints of the roof to seal things off at the chimney, skylight and so forth. A storm will bend or crack it, leaving water free to enter. Being in the more difficult to reach parts of a roof, damage to the flashing is often the source of a stubborn leak.

Impact from Debris

A hurricane will put roofing material and tree limbs in the air. Should they come in contact with your roof they can dent a panel or put a hole in the surface. Even a minor impact is a weak point for water to exploit later on.

Make it a practice to put in a call to a licensed and insured crew to do an inspection once the storm is over rather than go up on a wet or damaged roof to clear debris and check for what has been struck.

Flat Roofs and Standing Water

Commercial buildings with their low-slope and flat roofs are susceptible to pooling water in the wake of a downpour. If it is not draining the weight of it will break down the material and you will be looking at a failed roof system.

Structural Integrity Put to the Test

All the wind, rain and flying debris put a strain on the whole structure. The damage may well be to the decking and supports, not just what is on top. An inspection is called for after a serious storm because a small matter could be indicative of something more.

Our work is done to a standard that goes beyond the Florida Building Code for hurricane winds. Quality today is what will see you through tomorrow’s storms.

Storm Preparedness for Your Home

We put a 10-year guarantee on shingle roofs and as much as 20 on tile behind every roof we put in or fix. As an A+ BBB accredited firm and the #1 in Florida, we do not take hurricane season lightly. Our 100% satisfaction guarantee is no empty promise.

Have a storm passed and left you with concerns? Do not let the damage have its way. Handyman Roofing is at (866) 738-1287 for a no cost estimate. We are on hand 24/7 for the homeowner or business in Florida, financing is available and se habla español.