| By: Jessica Ackerman |
Determine your Roof Type
Before hurricanes arrive, take the time to evaluate your home's roof structure. There are different styles and types of roofs, some of which are more durable and conducive to staying structurally intact during a hurricane. Gabled roofs, those with triangular shape profiles, are considered to be the weakest type of roof during the extreme winds associated with a hurricane. This is usually because the pre-manufactured gables are not reinforced enough to withstand and be effective under high winds. There are other types 
of roofs that also can be structurally unsound against the pounding winds and rain. Examine your roof by getting up into the attic to see how the trusses are supported and reinforced. Take a look at the roof sheeting and materials to ensure that they are in good condition, and that they are properly installed.
Reinforcing Your Roof
If a professional roofer has determined that your roof needs to be reinforced to help maintain its integrity during a hurricane, make the necessary repairs before a storm hits. Simple two-by-fours can be used to reinforce the structure of a faulty roof. Install them by overlapping the boards across the trusses. Space them apart a distance of about one and a half feet. Do research online to get specific measurements and information about how to effectively reinforce your home's roof. If you do not feel comfortable making the repairs yourself, hire a licensed roofing contractor who comes recommended by someone you trust. While the additional cost may be more than you had anticipated, knowing that the job was done the right way and that the roof stands a better chance of surviving the force of a hurricane is worth the added expense.
Hurricane Straps
Another important reinforcement that can be added to your roof is a product called a hurricane strap. These galvanized metal straps are made to attach to almost any type of roof. Their purpose is to hold the roof to the walls of the house. In some hurricane prone areas along the coasts of the country, hurricane straps are required on all new home construction. Some areas actually require that older homes be retro-fitted with hurricane straps, to prevent damage to the existing home and other homes in the neighborhood. When a hurricane strikes, having a roof that has been properly reinforced and strapped down can mean the difference between life and death. Maintaining the structural integrity of a building ensures that those seeking shelter within it will be safe and protect neighboring buildings from flying roofing materials. Take the time to secure your roof, and when a hurricane strikes you will be able to rest a little easier.
Article source: https://www.roofer911.com
Did you find what you were looking for? Check out these other articles for more roofing information:
What about the roof decking material? This often overlooked piece of the roofing puzzle will be our topic as we compare some of the options available, as well as their strengths and weaknesses.
Over time, bird nests, droppings and other debris can severely degrade a roof, causing it to leak and possibly even collapse. All the more reason to bird proof your roof.
It is rare to see a home with a concrete shell roof, but in commercial and military construction, concrete shell roofs are known to be excellent roofing choices. .
Miami is a beautiful area and a nice place to live. However nature has its own role to play. The biggest danger in Miami and Southern Florida is hurricanes that can cause damage to your roof.
Roof damage can affect your home, but replacing the roof can do serious damage to shrubbery around the house. Learn some quick and easy ways to protect your lawn and shrubs during roof repairs.
How many layers of roof shingles you can and should have on your roof.
Immediate Response!
