Heavy rains can lead to roof leaks and damage. Follow these tips to inspect, repair, and maintain your roof to keep it watertight this rainy season.
The rainy season can be hard on roofs, especially here in Florida. If you’re not properly prepared, strong winds and heavy rains can seriously damage your property.
He’s our top advice on how you can keep your roof strong and leak-free this rainy season.
#1 Clean Gutters And Downspouts
Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling during heavy rains. When that happens, water is sure to find a way into places it doesn’t belong. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are (safely) cleared of leaves and other debris so rainwater can drain properly.
#2 Trim Overhanging Branches
Branches that overhang your roof can blow off during high winds and damage your roof. Trim trees back to minimize the chance of leak-causing damage. Keep in mind that it’s not just large branches that can do major damage. Even a small branch, when pushed across your roof by high winds can lift shingles and cut through seals or flashing.
#3 Check Attic Insulation and Ventilation
Inadequate attic insulation and ventilation can cause condensation to gather on the underside of your roof. That weakens your roof and makes leaks far more likely. Proper attic insulation will control the moisture levels within your attic and help extend the life of your roof. There are a lot of misconceptions about attic ventilation in particular, so be sure to get the facts straight. Your roof will thank you.
#4 Prepare For Severe Weather
Here in Florida, severe weather is not an if, but a when. Have supplies ready, not just for power outages, but to help protect your home as well. Tarps, plywood, nails, sandbags. Think about your roof and the damage that it is most likely to face. Then create a supply cache that will help you guard against leaks until a professional roofing contractor can repair the damage.
#5 Have Your Roof Professionally Inspected
The absolute best way to ensure a leak-free roof is to have your roof inspected by a professional, trusted roofing contractor. Ideally, you should have your roof inspected twice per year: once in January and again right after storm season. These professionals are trained to look for the small issues today that become major problems in the future.
How Can We Help?
With the right preparation and know-how, you can help ensure that this rainy season stays leak-free. If you have any questions, or if you need help with any of this advice, please don’t hesitate to contact us! Florida’s rainy season is something we all live through each year and we love it when we can help our neighbors make it through the rainy season safe, secure, and dry.