Though most of Virginia was lucky enough to avoid the worst effects of Hurricane Florence, it left one question on many homeowners’ minds: “When should I start worrying about my roofing and siding during a hurricane?” Even the most experienced homeowners may have never gone through a hurricane as a property owner. And for a newer homeowner, hurricane season may not have been on their mind until recently.


What to Do in Advance

The first thing to remember is to remain calm: try not to stress about your home! Remember, there is nothing you can personally do in the middle of a hurricane to save your roofing or siding that won't compromise your safety. The best thing you can do to protect your home is to prepare in advance, by making sure your home and property is in good shape before the storm arrives.

Take a walk around your home and look at these important areas:

  • Gutters. Your gutter system is one of the most important parts of your home during a hurricane, and making sure it is draining properly is essential. If there is debris in your gutters or downspouts, or the drainage area is blocked during heavy rains, water can build up and cause damage to your roofing and foundation. Make sure your system is clean.

  • Roofing. Don’t fret – you won’t need to climb a ladder to assess your roofing before a hurricane. Complete a ground inspection by looking for any shingles that are out of place or loose, and call a professional for an inspection if you suspect damage. You can also access your attic during a rain storm and look around for current leaks that you may not be aware of. Be sure to stay on the trusses and be safe should you decide to do this yourself.

  • Siding. When winds are strong, just one gust getting behind your siding means that much more could come off. The best way you can prepare your siding is by checking for loose seams and spacing between pieces, and have them tightened if needed. Pay attention to the caulking around your windows and doors where they meet your siding as well. If these areas are improperly sealed, rain damage can cause a much bigger problem long after a hurricane passes.

Schedule a Professional Inspection

So the answer to when you should start worrying or preparing for a storm? All year. Remember, year-round maintenance of these areas on your home will help you avoid making potentially expensive last-minute repairs before a big storm. If you’re concerned about your roofing, siding or gutters, give Roofing & More a call at (703) 828-1620. We serve Arlington, Herndon, Sterling and many other communities in Northern Virginia.