Hurricane Categories and Roof Damage
Hurricane Categories and Roof Damage: What You Can Expect As hurricane season begins, it is important that your home is prepared for anything Florida can throw at it, starting with your roof. If you are suspicious about the integrity of your roof or have any previous unaddressed damage, then it is very important that you get someone to make sure your roof is up to code and ready for this upcoming season. Here is a brief overview of the types of damage you can expect based on the category of the hurricane: Category 1: 74-94 mph winds While this is the lowest category on the scale, it still has potential to wreak havoc on your roof. It can remove singles and siding, while also having the possibility of breaking off large branches from older trees. Large tree branches landing on the roof could cause major structural damage beyond a few missing shingles. Prepare in advance by making sure your trees are trimmed accordingly and try to avoid leaving large branches hanging above your roof. Category 2: 96-110 Mph winds With this type of storm, you can expect roof damage. The stronger winds will cause downed trees, roads being blocked, as well as some power outages. With the more powerful winds and rain, it becomes increasingly important that your roof is in good shape prior to the storm. Category 3: 111-129 mph winds This is quite a serious storm and will cause damage to your roof, possibly severe enough to require you to replace your roof, despite your best preparations. Category 4: 130-156 mph winds With a storm this powerful, you will probably be evacuated. The structural damage will go beyond the roof at this point. Category 5: 157 or higher mph winds A Category 5 is a major natural disaster, and only three have made landfall since the 1850s. The most recent Category 5 storm was last year’s Hurricane Michael, which was the second strongest storm to hit Florida, making landfall in Mexico Beach. Damage to homes, especially roofs, will likely be significant. Whether you want an inspection to check your before a storm comes or if you find yourself in need of a roofer during an emergency, give the team at Musick Roofing a call today: 863.904.5350.
Preparing Your Roof Before a
Preparing Your Roof Before a Hurricane If you are a Florida homeowner, you know that tropical storms and hurricanes pose a unique threat for your roof. With wind speeds in excess of 150mph, you run the risk of losing shingles or tile. Your roof could also face damage from falling tree limbs and leaks from heavy rainfall. It has been said that the best defense is a good offense. For homeowners, that means making sure your roof is in good condition before a tropical storm or hurricane hits. HERE ARE SOME BASIC TIPS TO HELP PREPARE YOUR ROOF FOR STORMS: Have the Musick Roofing team come inspect your roof. We will check for loose or missing shingles, broken tiles and any other possible weak spot in your roof. We will give you a free estimate for any needed repairs or advise if it’s time to replace your existing roof. If a current storm is threatening your roof, it is important to replace or repair missing shingles or tiles before it hits. This will help prevent shingles from flying off during the storm and water from leaking into your home. Check trees and tree branches that are near your home. Remove any dead branches that could easily fall during the storm. If limbs hang out over your roof, consider trimming them back to reduce your risk of having one land on your home. Look into having your gutters cleaned. Leaves and other debris can prevent water from flowing through them properly, which can cause water to leak into your home during a storm. If you find yourself in need of a roof repair after the storm, make sure to have our number on hand (863-904-5350). We will have crews ready with tarps to cover damage. For more information about how different hurricane categories can affect your roof, view this previous post on our blog.