A home’s foundation and roof are the two most important things that keep everything together. Making sure that your home is safe is of the utmost importance. Unfortunately, people need to worry about this more than others in certain places or, better yet, in certain climates. Florida, although a beautiful place, has some unfortunate weather conditions from time to time. This is why homeowners here need to be extra careful and find ways of ensuring they’re safe in their own homes. We’re here to give you some tips on how to protect your Florida roof and live peacefully and without stress.
What are the most common causes of roof damage in Florida?
Seeing how Florida’s weather is often less than favorable, you need to be prepared for all kinds of scenarios. Most people think of hurricanes being threatening to their roofs. However, some other occurrences could be just as damaging, especially after a long period of time.
Strong winds and storms: Some of the worst kinds of damage from which you’ll need to protect your roof in Florida are the results of strong winds and storms. Unfortunately, this kind of weather is very frequent in the area and cannot be avoided. Making sure your roof is secure and that you’ve taken all the extra measures will not only save your home but it’ll give you peace of mind as well.
Damage from water and high amounts of moisture: It’s not rare that along with storms come floods. Of course, you shouldn’t wait until your home is flooded to act against this type of damage. Something else to remember here is that you needn’t only pay attention to your roofing but also your home’s foundation.
Excessive heat and sun (as well as UV rays): Most people aren’t even aware that the sunlight and heat can also damage your roof. This isn’t something that’ll happen momentarily, of course. However, if you don’t do anything to prevent this type of damage, you might end up with an unnecessarily ruined roof and an expensive job on your hands.
Some other non-weather-related causes of roof damage in Florida
In addition, aside from the weather factor that you cannot control but only deal with, there are some things that you may be doing unconsciously that affect your home.
Clogged gutters: People often forget about the gutters. There’s so much work around the house, so cleaning the gutters is probably the last thing on your mind. However, to protect your Florida roof, you shouldn’t skip it.
Unsafe installations: Make sure that your home is safe through and through before moving into it. Hire reliable movers during your move so that you’re able to focus on more important matters. Pairing up with the New Leaf Moving Group will relieve you of some dull obligations and give you enough free time for this.
Failing to maintain your home: Regular house maintenance is another essential thing when protecting your Florida roof.
Things you can do to protect your Florida roof
You could do many things to make your Florida roof safer and less likely to get destroyed. Combining all these methods will help you prevent the damage that could happen due to harsh weather.
Consider metal roofing: Although not very common, metal roofing can be a real lifesaver when it comes to unfortunate weather conditions.
Check for debris: Clearing the debris that you might have on your roof is essential. Once everything is cleared, you can relax and be sure that the drainage is doing its job.
Fix sealant: Sealant tends to deteriorate and strip over time. It can either be fixed or, if worse comes to worst, entirely replaced.
Is there damaged flashing?: Since flashing helps water drain and not retain too much where it can be harmful, it’s vital. Checking it yearly is actually enough to be sure of its condition.
Shingles and tiles are important too: Unfortunately, it’s not rare that people fail to notice that tiles and shingles have broken off before it’s too late. Be on the lookout for any loose pieces.
Pay attention to any trees: Although this is highly unusual, nearby trees can be harmful and destructive to your Florida roof. Just make sure that you don’t have any loose branches near your roof, and you’ll be good to go.
Find suitable storage
If you decide to fix or even replace any of these elements to protect your Florida roof, make sure to do it right. This project requires some time and attention. It would be best to move your belongings from the home while this is afoot. Transporting everything to a clean and bug-free unit and storing it there is probably your best bet.
Get a professional inspection
As we’ve mentioned, maintaining your home is an essential step in protecting your Florida roof. However, you first need to be sure that you’re working with a solid base. Hiring professionals to inspect your home and your roof thoroughly both before moving in and later on from time to time is a great way to make sure that you’re all set.
Don’t let the stress take over
Of course, this is easier said than done. Especially when the hurricane season kicks in, there’s always a lot of room for worry to creep in. Planning is the best way to avoid rushing and falling into risky and uncertain situations.
If all else fails…
Unfortunately, there will be times when you’ve given it your all, and it still isn’t enough. In this case, you’d have to give up on trying to fix the issue and replace your roof altogether. Trying to protect your Florida roof to the best of your abilities is important. However, if this happens, don’t dwell on it. Simply replace what needs replacing and move on.
Photos used:
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