Florida homeowners and business owners know that the heat, humidity, and occasional tropical storms in the Sunshine State can be hazardous to roofs. Regular roof maintenance can go a long way toward keeping your roof functional, but even the best roofing company cannot control the hot temperatures, high humidity, and frequent heavy rains we sometimes experience.
How to Prepare Your Roof for Summer
Whether you call Florida home year-round or spend just part of your time in the state, there are several steps you can take to prepare your roof for the summer season.
Have a Roof Inspection
Florida summers can bring heavy rain and strong winds, so it is important to make sure that your roof is in good condition. Have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof for any damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or leaks. Addressing any issues before the summer storms hit can help to prevent more extensive damage and costly repairs.
Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
While you’re inspecting your roof, take a look at your gutters and downspouts as well. Gutters are designed to direct water away from your home, but if they are clogged with debris, they can actually cause water to back up onto the roof, potentially resulting in damage to your home. Clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure that they are free from debris and functioning properly.
Be Sure The House Stays Cool
Have a professional HVAC technician inspect and clean your system to ensure that it is running efficiently. Keeping your home from getting too hot inside is good for your roof because excessive heat can cause damage to the roofing materials over time. When the temperature fluctuates, roofing materials can expand and contract, leading to cracks, buckling, and warping. It can also cause moisture buildup, which could weaken the roof structure and damage the insulation.
Trim Trees As Needed
Parts of Florida are prone to heavy storms during the summer, so it is important to ensure that there are no trees or bushes that could potentially damage your home during a storm. You should also ensure that your yard is free from any debris, such as fallen branches or palm fronds, that could become hazardous during a storm.
Regardless of whether you are a year-round resident or a snowbird, it is important to take steps to prepare your home for the summer months. By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your home is ready for the heat, humidity, and occasional tropical storms that come with a Florida summer.
Additional Tips for Preparing Your Home for Summer
In addition to the tips listed above for preparing your roof, there are a few additional steps you can take to prepare your home for the summer months.
First, consider adding shade to your home’s exterior. Shade can help to reduce the amount of heat that enters your home, which can help to reduce your energy bills. You can add shade to your home by planting trees or installing awnings or shade sails.
Next, make sure that your attic is properly ventilated. Proper ventilation can help to reduce the amount of heat that builds up in your attic, which can help to reduce your energy bills and extend the life of your roof. You can ensure proper ventilation by installing attic vents or fans.
Finally, consider installing a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can help you to save money on your energy bills by allowing you to set your air conditioning system to run less when you are not at home or during times when you are sleeping.
Review Your Homeowners’ Insurance Policy
As summer approaches in Florida, the likelihood of damaging storms increases. That is why it is important that Florida homeowners have proper homeowners’ insurance that covers roof damage.
Here are a few reasons why:
- Florida is prone to severe weather conditions such as hurricanes, thunderstorms, and tornadoes, which can cause significant damage to roofs. In the event that your roof is damaged by one of these weather events, having insurance coverage can help alleviate the financial burden of repairing or replacing your roof.
- Florida is known for its intense heat and high humidity levels, which can cause roofs to deteriorate over time. This can lead to leaks, mold growth, and other types of damage that may require costly repairs.
- Having proper homeowners’ insurance that covers roof damage can provide peace of mind for homeowners. Knowing that you are protected in the event of a roofing emergency can help alleviate stress and worry, allowing you to enjoy your home and the beautiful Florida weather without fear of financial ruin.
A Special Note for Snowbirds
Part-time residents of Florida are often called snowbirds, due to the fact that they spend the winter months in the Sunshine State – away from the cold and snow in other parts of the country.
Snowbirds who own a property in Florida often leave for the summer, so they should also consider a few additional suggestions:
- Have someone check your roof (and the rest of your home) on a regular basis. This could be a neighbor or friend, or you might even hire someone. This helps to ensure that you find out about any issues before they become more serious.
- Avoid allowing the house to become too hot in your absence. The savings on the electric bill can be quickly offset by the cost of roof repairs caused by the interior of the home getting too hot.
- Research local roofing contractors to find out who you would like to use should you need to have work done in your absence. Finding good roofers before you need them can give you peace of mind.
- If you have roof maintenance or other roofing services while you are away, ask someone you trust to verify that the work has been done correctly.
Preparing your home for the summer months in Florida is an important task for both year-round residents and snowbirds to ensure that your home is ready for the heat, humidity, and occasional tropical storms that come with a Florida summer.
Stronghold Roofing & Solar In & Near Lakeland, FL
As an experienced Lakeland roofing company, Stronghold Roofing & Solar’s roofers know what it takes to ensure that your roof keeps doing its job.
Whether you need a full roof replacement, roof repairs, or just an inspection, contact Stronghold Roofing & Solar for a free estimate.
