If there’s one thing we know about summer, it’s that it can be very unpredictable. Sunny and warm one day, with thunderstorms, torrential rains and high winds the next. Your roof is the first line of defense when it comes to protecting your home from summer storms, and the key is to be prepared. That starts now.

Here’s how to protect your roof from severe weather as we head into summer.

Get a Professional Roof Inspection

The key to making your roof last as long as possible is preventive maintenance. This is particularly important as we head into storm season, so you can detect issues when they’re small and before they get bigger and more costly. Schedule an inspection with your trusted roofer now to check for missing or damaged shingles that could allow for leaks, and cracked or sliding tiles that could become projectiles in high winds.

These and other areas of concern will become vulnerable spots as soon as a storm hits.

Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Blocked gutters or downspouts don’t allow water to properly flow off your roof, causing a backup of water on your roof and under shingles where they can drip down into your home. Clean out your gutters and reposition downspouts to ensure they are channeling water away from your foundation. While you’re at it, check for weak or loose fasteners and tighten them up if need be.

Remove Debris

Debris that accumulates on your roof will flow down into your gutters and clog them. Any debris that stays on the roof can soak up all that moisture and result in mold and rot. It also invites pests and critters.

Trim Trees

Trim back any tree limbs or small branches that overhang your house. Overhanging branches can pull up shingles, puncture your roof, and even crack roof beams if they’re big enough. Do this trimming at least once a year to reduce the risk of falling branches.

Check Large Trees

Weak or diseased trees may be easily uprooted in a storm, so check for signs of age and weakness. These signs can include deformed or dropped leaves, dead limbs, missing bark, and withered branches. If you see that a tree is leaning to the side, this means the root system is weak and may not be strong enough to keep the tree upright in the next storm.

Buy Tarps

Tarps can be hard to find after a big storm because they’re in high demand. Home improvement stores often run out of supplies such as plastic sheets and tarps, and roofers also face supply shortages with widespread storm damage. Be smart and pick up some tarps now so you can protect your roof against leaks if needed.

Secure Loose Items

Patio furniture, toys, and lawn decorations can become hazardous flying objects in heavy winds. Secure or store these items in advance of a storm so they don’t become projectiles.

Check Your Insurance Policy

Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy and what it covers, particularly when it comes to the roof warranty. Download a claims form before a power outage prevents you from doing so. This will get the ball rolling quickly so your claim will get immediate attention.

Contact Hi-Tech Windows and Siding for Residential Roofing

Consult with your local roofing experts today when you call us at 800-851-0900 or Request a Quote online. From installation to re-roofing to repairs, we can help protect your home from summer storms this season.