As summer arrives in Tennessee, homeowners must prepare for the potential impact of high-wind storms that can cause significant damage to their homes. Taking proactive measures and understanding how to respond before and after a storm is vital for protecting your property.
This guide will explore practical ways to prepare your home house for high-wind storms, focusing on roof protection. We will also discuss the steps after a storm if your roof sustains damage, including tarping, repairs, and engaging professional services.
By following these steps, you can minimize the effects of Tennesee’s severe weather events.
Preparing Your Home
You rely on your roof for protection during storms. As a homeowner in Tennessee, preparing your home for severe weather is critical to preventing damage.
Roof Inspection
Routine maintenance and inspections can give you a head start regarding your preparedness for severe weather. Noticing minor issues now can prevent big problems later on.
Specifically, look for common roof problems such as missing or damaged shingles, loose flashing, gutters, and leaks. If you notice these issues, it is vital to address them to keep your roof in good shape.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Did you know your gutters need to be cleaned out at least 1-2 times yearly? Clogged drains can lead to water buildup, potentially causing roof leaks and water damage through weight and moisture.
Clogged gutters can damage both shingles and underlayers of your roof through deterioration over time. Ensure your gutters and downspouts, such as leaves and twigs, are debris-free.
One option worth looking into is gutter guards, designed to prevent debris such as leaves, twigs, and more.
Trim Trees and Branches
Look to trim any overhanging tree branches close to your roof. During storms, strong winds can cause these branches to break and damage your roof.
More specifically, falling branches can tear off shingles, gutters, and flashing while damaging windows and other structures left to the elements. Ensure your branches are trimmed, and check if any are hanging over your roof.
Secure Loose Objects
Before a storm, secure or bring inside any loose objects in your yard that could become dangerous projectiles during high winds. Here are some examples of things you should ensure as part of your prep for incoming sever weather:
- Patio and outdoor furniture
- Garden tools and equipment
- Decor and potted plants
- Grills and propane tanks
- Trash or recycling bins
Prepare an Emergency Kit
Create an emergency supply kit that includes essential supplies, such as flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, a battery-operated radio, a cell phone with chargers, and non-perishable food.
Keep this kit easily accessible in case of power outages or other storm-related emergencies.
Taking these precautions can help you minimize the potential for damage to your home and ensure your safety and those around you.
How Can a Professional Roofing Company Help?
If you cannot perform a full inspection or require professional assistance, contact an experienced roofing company.
This section will explore a general overview of services a professional contractor can provide in this context.
Complete Inspection and Maintenance
A professional roofing company can thoroughly inspect your roof, identify any vulnerable areas, and perform necessary maintenance and repairs.
As previously mentioned, regular inspections can help to identify any issues early on, preventing them from becoming more significant problems down the line.
A professional roofer can also advise reinforcing weak areas and protecting your roof against storm damage.
Repairs or Replacement
If your roof sustains storm damage, a roofing company can provide repairs or, if necessary, a full roof replacement. They have the expertise and tools to restore your roof to its optimal condition.
Emergency Service
In cases where immediate protection is necessary, such as after severe storm damage, a roofing company can provide emergency services if there are unforeseen damages to your roof. Emergency roofing services may be shingle repair, tarping to prevent leaks, or another repair service to get you by until a full repair can be completed.
Insurance Claims
Dealing with roofing insurance claims can be a complex process. A professional roofing company can assist homeowners in understanding and navigating claims. Insurance companies will often request pictures of the damage, so having a professional use a drone or get up onto your roof themselves may be the safest option.
Here at Austermiller, we want you to know what’s going on in your case before you call to file an insurance claim.
It is essential to have accurate information and guidance when filing insurance claims. When we recommend filing a claim, we meet with your insurance adjuster and show them any damages in extreme and less noticeable cases.
Our experts will work with you throughout the entire process with your insurance adjuster.
Working with a professional roofing company ensures that your home is prepared and protected against storm damage.
Regular inspections and repairs can help prevent damage. At the same time, emergency services and insurance claims assistance can provide necessary support in mild and severe weather events.
What’s Next?
Severe windstorms In Tennessee can be challenging to navigate. Understanding what to do or where to start in these events can also take time.
Below, we will discuss everything you need to know about what comes after inclement weather in detail, from assessing damage to restoration.
Emergency Tarping
Heavy thunderstorms, hail, straight-line winds, and tornadoes can rip through roof shingles, causing leaks to address.
The immediate aftermath of a storm can leave your roof vulnerable to further water damage, which can compromise your home’s structural integrity and lead to costly repairs.
If you see any visible damage or leaks, consider using tarps as a temporary solution to prevent further water infiltration. Secure the tarps tightly, covering the affected areas until permanent repairs can be made.
Remember to prioritize safety when accessing your roof, and if necessary, seek assistance from professionals trained in roof tarping. For more information, call Austermiller Roofing for your emergency service needs.
Assessing and Documenting Damage
Conduct a thorough inspection of your roof once the storm has passed, and it’s safe to do so. Remember that not all roof damage is immediately noticeable, so it’s essential to be vigilant.
Document any damage in detail, such as missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, or water stains on the ceiling. Remember to take photographs and document the extent of the damage, as this information will be valuable when filing insurance claims or seeking professional assistance.
Insurance in Detail
After documenting the damage, consult reputable roofing professionals in your area like Austermiller in Tennessee, preferably those with experience in storm damage repairs.
Their expertise can help identify hidden issues, provide accurate cost estimates, and guide you through the necessary steps to restore your roof to its pre-storm condition.
At Austermiller, we take you through every step of the process.
Professional Repairs and Restoration
Once you’ve chosen an experienced roofing contractor, schedule a detailed inspection. A professional will thoroughly evaluate the damage and recommend appropriate repairs or replacements.
They will also ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations. From replacing damaged shingles to repairing flashing and reinforcing the roof structure, these experts possess the knowledge and skills to restore your roof’s integrity effectively.
Final Thoughts
Remember to work with trusted roofing contractors who understand the unique challenges posed by our Tennessee weather. By prioritizing roof maintenance and repairs, you can safeguard your home and ease your mind in the face of storms ahead.
You can mitigate further issues and expedite the recovery process by taking immediate action, such as emergency tarping, assessing the damage, and contacting professionals.
Prepare your home from storm damage with the steps mentioned above and ensure protection with perks from a full-service roofing contractor in Austermiller, located in Middle Tennessee.
You rely on your roof for protection during storms. Contact us today If you have any questions about storm preparation for your home or what to do after severe weather.