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Roof Tips to Prepare For Hurricane Season

Hurricanes are natural disasters that can wreak havoc on homes and businesses alike. Among the various elements of a structure, the roof is one of the most vulnerable areas during hurricane season. 

In this comprehensive guide, our team of hurricane proof roof experts in Brevard County are exploring how Florida homeowners and commercial business owners can prepare their roofs to avoid damage during hurricane season. With proper planning and proactive measures, you can minimize the risks and protect your property from the destructive forces of a hurricane.

How Hurricanes Can Affect Your Roof

Hurricanes are among the most powerful natural disasters on Earth, and their destructive capabilities extend far beyond the immediate impact of strong winds and heavy rains. One area of your property that’s particularly vulnerable during hurricane season is your roof.

Wind Damage

The first and most obvious threat that hurricanes pose to your roof is the sheer force of the wind. Hurricane winds can reach speeds of over 150 miles per hour, and these powerful gusts can easily tear off roofing materials, shingles, or tiles. Even if your roof remains intact, high winds can loosen roofing components and create openings where water can infiltrate.

Flying Debris

Hurricanes are known for hurling debris through the air at incredible speeds. Tree branches, signs, and other objects become dangerous projectiles during a storm. If they collide with your roof, they can cause significant damage, including punctures, tears, and dents.

Water Infiltration

Heavy rainfall is a hallmark of hurricanes, and if your roof is compromised by wind or debris, water can quickly find its way into your home or commercial property. Even minor leaks can lead to extensive water damage, including rot, mold growth, and compromised structural integrity.

Roof Uplift

The powerful updrafts created by hurricane winds can exert tremendous pressure on your roof. This upward force, known as roof uplift, can cause the roof to lift away from the structure, leading to catastrophic damage. Proper roof anchoring and reinforcement are essential to prevent this.

 

Structural Stress

Hurricanes can place extreme stress on the entire structure of your property, including the roof. Prolonged exposure to high winds can weaken the roof’s supporting structures, making it more susceptible to damage during the storm.

Post-Hurricane Roof Damage

Even after the hurricane has passed, the potential for roof damage remains. Ongoing exposure to the elements, such as rain and moisture, can exacerbate existing roof issues. Therefore, it’s essential to conduct post-hurricane roof inspections to assess any damage that may have occurred.

How Florida Homeowners Can Prepare their Roof for Hurricane Season 

Living in the beautiful Sunshine State of Florida comes with many perks, but it also means being well-acquainted with the annual threat of hurricanes. These powerful tropical storms can wreak havoc on homes, and one of the most vulnerable areas is undoubtedly the roof. As a Florida homeowner, preparing your roof for hurricane season is not just a smart move– it’s a necessity.

Schedule a Roof Inspection

Regular roof inspections are the first line of defense against hurricane-related roof damage. Schedule routine roof inspections, preferably twice a year, to identify and address issues before they become major problems. Look for loose roofing shingles, damaged tiles, and signs of wear and tear.

Clean Gutters and Drains

Clean out gutters and drains to ensure proper water flow. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling on your roof, increasing the risk of leaks and structural damage.

Repair Damaged Shingles or Tiles

Replace any damaged or missing shingles or tiles promptly. Damaged roofing materials can compromise the roof’s integrity during a hurricane.

Secure Loose Components

Check for loose roof components, such as vents, chimney caps, and satellite dishes. Secure or reinforce these items to prevent them from becoming projectiles during a storm.

Trim Overhanging Trees

Trim branches and limbs that overhang your roof. During a hurricane, these branches can break off and damage your roof or allow water to accumulate.

Install Hurricane Straps

Hurricane straps are designed to secure the roof to the structure’s frame, preventing the roof from lifting off during strong winds. These straps provide extra stability and are essential for preventing hurricane-related roof damage.

Reinforce Doors and Windows

Strengthen doors and windows with hurricane shutters or impact-resistant glass. Secure garage doors to prevent wind from entering and causing pressure on your roof system’s components. 

How to Prepare Your Commercial Roof for Hurricane Season

Commercial property owners understand the importance of safeguarding their investments, and in hurricane-prone regions, like coastal areas or cities with a history of tropical storms, protecting your commercial roof is paramount.

 

Install a Fluid Roof for Flat Roofs

For business owners, installing a fluid roof on a flat roof can be a smart move. A fluid-applied roofing system forms a seamless, watertight membrane that can help seal existing leaks and prevent them from worsening during a hurricane. It’s an effective way to enhance the overall resilience of your commercial building.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

Hire a professional roofing contractor to conduct a thorough inspection of your commercial roof. They can identify existing issues and recommend necessary repairs or maintenance.

Clean and and Remove Debris

Clear your roof of any debris, such as leaves, branches, and litter. Debris can clog drains and create water pooling areas, increasing the risk of leaks.

Repair Leaks or Weak Points

Address any known leaks or weak points in the roofing system promptly. These vulnerabilities can lead to more significant damage during a hurricane. For business owners, consider installing a fluid roof on a flat roof as a way to seal any existing leaks and prevent them from becoming a bigger issue after the hurricane.

Reinforce Roofing Materials

Consider using impact-resistant roofing materials that can withstand the force of flying debris. Reinforce roof-to-wall connections and other critical areas.

Install a Metal Roof

Metal roofing is often considered one of the best choices for hurricane-prone regions due to its durability and resistance to various types of weather-related damage.

Benefits of a metal roofing system include:

  • High Wind Resistance

  • Impact Resistance

  • Secure Installation

  • Longevity

  • Fire Resistance

  • Minimal Water Absorption

  • Low Maintenance

  • Energy Efficiency

What to Do if Your Roof is Damaged by a Hurricane

Experiencing a hurricane can be a harrowing and stressful event, especially when it leads to roof damage. When your roof is compromised during a hurricane, it’s essential to take immediate action to prevent further harm and begin the process of recovery.

Ensure Safety First

The safety of you and your family should always be the top priority. If your roof has sustained damage during a hurricane, there might be additional hazards, such as exposed electrical wires, weakened structures, or hidden dangers. If your home is no longer safe due to extensive damage, evacuate to a secure location as directed by local authorities.

Document the Damage

Before any repairs can take place, thorough documentation of the damage is essential, both for insurance purposes and to guide the repair process. Use your smartphone or camera to capture clear images and videos of the damaged areas from multiple angles. Write down a description of the damage, including the location, extent, and any potential safety concerns.

Communicate with Your Insurance Company

Share the documentation of the damage you collected earlier with your insurance company. Maintain open communication with your insurer throughout the claims process, responding promptly to any requests for information.

Contact a Professional Roofer

After ensuring the immediate safety of your property, the next step is to contact a professional roofing contractor with experience in hurricane damage repairs. Ensure that the chosen contractor possesses the required permits and licenses to perform the needed repairs in your area.

Schedule Repairs with a Roofing Company

Once you’ve selected a reputable roofing contractor who specializes in hurricane relief for residential and commercial roofs, schedule the permanent repairs for your damaged roof. The contractor will assess the damage, provide recommendations, and initiate the necessary repairs or roof replacement.

Take Preventative Measures for Future Hurricanes

To reduce the risk of future hurricane damage to your roof, consider taking proactive measures such as reinforcing your roof, installing impact-resistant materials, and ensuring proper maintenance. Discuss these options with your roofing professional to enhance your property’s resilience to future storms.

Prepare for Hurricane Season with Our Florida Roof Experts

Are you ready to fortify your Florida property against the fury of hurricane season? Don’t leave the safety of your home or business to chance. Our team of experienced roofing experts is here to help you prepare and protect your investment.

Whether you need a free inspection to assess your roof’s current condition or a free estimate for strengthening and fortifying your roofing system, we’re just a call away. Take the proactive step towards hurricane preparedness by scheduling your free inspection or estimate today. Together, we’ll ensure your peace of mind when the next storm approaches.

Get started today by calling Roof Experts at (321) 313-5680 or filling out the contact form below.

 

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Enhance Energy Efficiency: Top Roofing Solutions for Commercial Buildings

Roof Experts

Embracing Energy-Efficient Roofing
Solutions for Commercial Buildings

As commercial property owners and managers seek to reduce their environmental footprint and operational costs, the significance of energy-efficient roofing solutions cannot be overstated. At 321 Roof Experts, we understand the pivotal role that sustainable and innovative roofing practices play in achieving these objectives. In this blog post, we will explore a range of cutting-edge technologies and practices that can revolutionize the energy efficiency and environmental impact of commercial roofing. 

Sustainable Roofing Materials:

The foundation of any energy-efficient roofing solution lies in the careful selection of sustainable materials. By leveraging eco-friendly options such as recycled and recyclable materials, commercial property owners can significantly reduce waste and minimize the depletion of natural resources. Our commitment to sustainable roofing materials ensures that every project we undertake embodies environmental responsibility and long-term durability.

Cool Roof Technology:

Cool Roof Technology: Harnessing the power of cool roof technology is a game-changer for commercial buildings. By employing reflective roofing materials that efficiently deflect sunlight and heat, property owners can reduce indoor temperatures, alleviate the urban heat island effect, and decrease the demand for air conditioning. The adoption of cool roof technology not only enhances energy efficiency but also contributes to a more comfortable and sustainable urban environment. 

Green Roof Practices for Commercial Buildings:

Green Roof Practices for Commercial Buildings: Green roof systems offer a multifaceted approach to sustainability by integrating vegetation into the building envelope. By incorporating living plants into roofing structures, commercial property owners can mitigate stormwater runoff, improve air quality, and enhance thermal insulation. Our expertise in implementing green roof practices ensures that commercial buildings can maximize their environmental benefits while creating aesthetically pleasing and functional outdoor spaces. 

Solar Roofing Integrations:

Solar Roofing Integrations: The integration of solar panels into commercial roofing systems presents an unparalleled opportunity to generate clean, renewable energy on-site. By capitalizing on underutilized roof spaces, property owners can offset their reliance on conventional energy sources, reduce utility expenses, and contribute to a greener energy grid. Our comprehensive approach to solar roofing integrations empowers commercial properties to embrace sustainable energy solutions without compromising their operational efficiency.

Considerations for Commercial Property Owners:

As commercial property owners evaluate the adoption of energy-efficient roofing solutions, it is essential to consider factors such as initial investment costs, long-term savings, environmental benefits, and regulatory incentives At 321 Roof Experts, we provide comprehensive consultations to assist property owners in making informed decisions that align with their sustainability goals and financial objectives

At 321 Roof Experts, we are committed to guiding commercial property owners toward the implementation of energy-efficient roofing solutions that elevate environmental stewardship, reduce operational costs, and enhance the overall sustainability of their buildings. Contact us today to embark on a journey toward a greener and more efficient future for your commercial property.

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Repair Or Replace Your Roof?

Roof Experts

Repair Or Replace Your Roof?
What to Consider When Deciding

The decision to repair or replace a roof is often straightforward, but most people tend to ignore the signs and refuse to accept that it is finally time to move on. Here is what you need to make a decision.

Frequency of repairs

Do you have your roofer’s phone number on speed dial? This situation is a sure sign that your roof repairs have become too frequent. If you are dealing with curling, buckling, bald, missing, and blistering shingles often, your roof is nearing its end. 

However, do not be quick to make that call. Invite a roof installation expert to do roof inspection and assessment. The expert will break down the extent and cost of repair compared to a new roof installation.

Cost of repairs and replacement parts

If your normal roof fixes become extensive and expensive repair projects, a replacement will be prudent. You should reconsider your normal roof maintenance and inspection if the roof is below 15 years. Maybe you are not doing enough. As you continue doing patchworks repeatedly, the roof will end up with patches all over.

Overall, look at your repair costs over a year. If the budget is significant enough, a new roof could give you some much-needed break.

General status of the roof

You may also need to check the general state of the roof. Check for sagging roofs, leaks, and physical damages resulting from storms, snow, and tree damage. If you have active roof insurance or a warranty, you may use this to get a roof makeover.

You may consider temporary roof solutions such as roof tarps and roof wraps. Such solutions are ideal for roofs that have extensive damage, and you don’t have the budget to replace them. However, you have to hire a roofing service to perform these emergency roofing repair solutions for your residential or commercial building.

The age of the roof

As the roof continues to age, expect it to demand more repairs, cost more in replacement parts, require more frequent maintenance and inspection rounds, and so on. All these will be costly. When a roof starts to demand emergency repairs more often, it is time to ask for that roof replacement estimate for your roofing expert near you.

Determining weather or not you should replace or repair your roof takes much consideration. Our Experts are available every step of the way. Call today to receive your free roofing estimate. 

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The truth behind Florida’s new insurance bill, SB 76:

Roof Experts

The truth behind Florida’s new insurance bill, SB 76

On June 11th, 2021, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed the SB 76 bill into law. It passed the Florida legislature on April 30th, 2021, and goes into effect on July 1st, 2021. What exactly does this bill mean? It was designed to further reform bad practices and protect insurance consumers from double-digit rate increases, misleading roof solicitations, costly claims practices, and excessive litigation.

This seems like a good thing, however, Florida homeowners don’t think so. In fact, tens of thousands of homeowners in the sunshine state are quite furious over this new law. Essentially, because of this new law, insurance companies have begun to drop clients simply due to the age of their roof. The insurance company, Progressive, has already dropped almost 56,000 policies on Florida homes with roofs that are older than 15 years. The reasoning is said to be “exposure management.” Insurances claim that if your roof is ten years or older, it would need to be replaced altogether.

Many homeowners have been left reeling. Even after passing a full roof inspection, insurance companies have continued to drop homeowners simply due to the age of their roof. They claim that the weather conditions in Florida make it so that roof conditions need more upkeep than in other states. From conditions such as extreme heat to excessive rain and wind during hurricane season each year, it seems this is the excuse that insurance companies used to lobby for their bill.

The anger that most homeowners in Florida feel is coming from the fact that even if their roof still has life in it, they are forced to either replace it or be dropped altogether. Shingle roofs would especially need to be replaced at the ten-year mark, while tile and metal structures should in theory be able to last a bit longer. Many homeowners weren’t even aware of the bill until they received news from their insurance companies informing them of their nonrenewal. This has resulted in a very hostile homeowners insurance market. People who are against SB 76 argue that the bill doesn’t do anything to help protect homeowners from predatory practices of insurance carriers. 

It’s not just homeowners who are being affected by this new law. It’s also contractors and roofers that are feeling the effects. SB 76 also prohibits roofers from encouraging property owners from filing a roofing claim. Roofers also are unable to offer anything of value to perform a roof inspection or even offer to look at an insurance policy or file a claim. Contractors will also have to submit a detailed cost estimate of the labor and materials required to repair a home before starting the insurance claim work. If any of these rules are broken, there would be a $10,000 fine for each and any violation. 

The bill was passed as a way to save Florida’s housing market from collapse. It has also been promoted as a way to save Florida’s economy. The truth, however, is that for many homeowners, there is a fear of not being able to stay in their homes due to the rise in insurance premiums, and/or the cost of new roofing. Throughout 2020, property insurance rates have increased anywhere from 20% to 50%. MIC Insurance company reported that at least 25% of their clients were unable to renew their existing policies. So, is there any hope for Florida homeowners?

Since SB 76 went into effect last year, thousands of Floridians have switched over to Citizens. Since June 2020, Citizens have taken on 4,000 new policies a week. In 2018 they had a total of 420,000 policyholders. By the end of 2021, that number has skyrocketed to 700,000. That number has projected to keep growing for as long as this new law stays in effect.

If you fall into the category of having an old roof and is forced to replace your roof, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment with one of our experts to learn more about the condition of your roof.  

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How to Prepare Your Roof Before a Hurricane

Roof Experts

How to Prepare Your Roof Before a Hurricane

We all know that hurricane season is around the corner, our experts are here to help you prepare for this season by taking precautions to minimizing the damage done by hurricanes and strong winds. Don’t wait until its too late! These 5 steps of precautions will keep your home and family safe and save you money and time in the long run.  

Expert inspection

High-quality commercial and residential roofing inspection services will identify any potential weaknesses. You want to leave the roof strong and durable even through a hurricane. We do not recommend trying to inspect the roof for any damage by yourself. You could have an accident that would leave you with fatal injuries. 

Fix the flaws and leaks

In case of a leaky roof or loose shingles, have it fixed by a licensed Brevard County Roofing technician. Loose shingles, leaky roofs, and damaged tiles will lead to further damage to the roof during hurricanes. Fixing them can improve the resistance of the roof.

Observe best practices about trees

If any trees are hanging over the roof, trim them to avoid any damage they may cause during the hurricane. Strong winds may break the trees and their branches. Such branches and trees can fall on the roof, destroying it.

Inspect and clean the gutters

Check for any debris in the gutters or valleys of the roof and remove them. Clearing up the gutters will allow water to flow smoothly instead of building up on the roof. Such buildups can lead to roof leakages.

Check the soffit and fascia.

Survey the soffit boards and fascia for any rotten wood and have them repaired as soon as possible by a roofing services company. You do not need to climb on the roof to check the fascia and soffit boards. Just walk around the house and inspect the metal trim below the overhand area of the roof. Rotten wood will weaken the roofing structure.

At 321 Roof Experts, we provide high-quality roofing services to residents and businesses in Brevard County, FL. Give us a call today, and we will make sure your roof can withstand any storm or hurricane.