Preparing Your Roof for Storm Season: Expert Advice from Statewide Roofing

Storm season in Oklahoma is notorious for its severe weather patterns, ranging from powerful thunderstorms to destructive tornadoes. As homeowners and business owners alike prepare for these unpredictable conditions, ensuring your roof is ready to withstand the elements is crucial. 

Statewide Roofing, with years of experience serving Oklahomans, offers expert advice to help you safeguard your property during storm season. Keep reading to learn how to prep your roof for severe weather and ensure it lasts for many seasons to come.

Understanding Oklahoma’s Storm Seasons

Oklahoma's unique geographical location makes it particularly vulnerable to severe weather. The state sits at the heart of Tornado Alley, where cold, dry air from Canada meets warm, moist air from the Gulf of Mexico, creating the perfect conditions for powerful storms. These storms can bring heavy rainfall, high winds, hail, and even tornadoes, all of which can wreak havoc on roofs.

While severe storms are the most common during the spring months of April through June, severe thunderstorms and even tornadoes can occur into the fall. This makes year-round roof checkups and maintenance essential.

Top Storm Season Tips for Roof Maintenance and Protection

Here is our list of tips to keep your roof in top shape through severe storms.

Inspect Your Roof Regularly

Routine inspections are the first line of defense against storm damage. Ideally, you should inspect your roof twice a year—once in the spring before storm season and once in the fall. Here’s what to look for:

1. Shingle Condition: Check for cracked, curled, or missing shingles. Damaged shingles can lead to leaks and further damage during a storm.
2. Flashing: Ensure that the metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is secure and free from rust or damage.
3. Gutters: Clean your gutters to ensure proper drainage. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep under your roof, leading to leaks.
4. Soffits and Fascia: Check for signs of rot or damage in these areas, as they are critical for proper ventilation and protection from the elements.

Reinforce Your Roof

In areas prone to severe weather, reinforcing your roof can make a significant difference in its ability to withstand storms. Here are some recommendations:

1. Underlayment: Adding a waterproof underlayment beneath your shingles can provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration.
2. Impact-Resistant Shingles: Consider upgrading to impact-resistant shingles, which are designed to withstand hail and debris.

Address Existing Damage

Any existing damage to your roof can be exacerbated by severe weather. If you notice any issues during your inspection, address them promptly. This might involve replacing damaged shingles, repairing flashing, or fixing leaks. Ignoring minor problems can lead to significant damage when storms hit.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Trees can pose a serious threat to your roof during a storm. Overhanging branches can break off and cause damage during high winds or heavy rainfall. Trim back any branches that are close to your roof to minimize this risk. Additionally, remove any dead or diseased trees from your property to prevent them from falling or being pulled from the ground during a storm.

Secure Loose Outdoor Items

High winds can turn loose items into dangerous projectiles. Ensure that any outdoor furniture, equipment, trampolines, or decorations are secured or brought inside before a storm hits. This can prevent them from causing damage to your roof or other parts of your property when winds get high.

Understand Your Insurance Policy

Before storm season begins, review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand what is covered in the event of storm damage. Many policies cover wind and hail damage, but there may be exclusions or limitations. Knowing your coverage can help you be prepared for any necessary repairs or replacements.

Have an Emergency Plan

Having an emergency plan in place is crucial during storm season. Ensure that your family knows where to go and what to do in the event of a severe storm. Identify a safe room or shelter within your home, and keep emergency supplies such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, and a first aid kit readily available.

Emergency prep also applies to your roof. Prepare to deal with leaks and other damage during and after a storm. Consider keeping a tarp that's intended to cover your roof in the event you get a leak you can’t have fixed promptly.

Get Post-Storm Inspections and Repairs if Needed

After a storm passes, conduct a thorough inspection of your roof to assess any damage. Look for missing shingles, leaks, and other signs of wear and tear. Even if there are no visible signs of damage, it’s a good idea to have a professional roofer from Statewide Roofing conduct an inspection. Hidden damage can lead to more significant issues down the line if not addressed promptly.

Work With a Trusted Roofing Company

When it comes to preparing your roof for storm season, partnering with a trusted roofing professional is invaluable. Statewide Roofing has extensive experience in dealing with Oklahoma’s severe weather and can provide expert guidance on the best practices for storm-proofing your roof. Whether it’s conducting inspections, making repairs, or offering advice on reinforcements, we’re here to help.

Conclusion

Storm season in Oklahoma is a time of heightened awareness and preparation. By taking proactive steps to prepare your roof, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage and protect your home or business. Regular inspections, addressing existing damage, reinforcing your roof, and working with a trusted professional like Statewide Roofing can make all the difference when severe weather strikes. Remember, the key to weathering the storm is preparation. Ensure your roof is ready, and you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever nature throws your way.

For more information on storm season preparation and to schedule an inspection, contact Statewide Roofing today. We’re committed to keeping your roof—and your property—safe and secure. Take a look at our residential and commercial services to see what we offer, and browse our portfolio for examples of our work. Ready to get started? Call us or contact us today.