A monster category 5 hurricane is developing over the South Florida coastal waters. What does this mean? A category 5 hurricane is the highest classification possible with winds above 156 mph. Is there such a thing as a hurricane-proof roof for such wind? Making your commercial property’s roof as close to hurricane proof as possible must be a top priority. Here are some tips to get your roof hurricane ready to give your facility an edge over the competition.
Inspections
Regular inspections by your reliable commercial roofing contractor are a sure path to hassle-free hurricanes. A good contractor will do more than a visual roof inspection. The roof deck needs to be checked; seams need to be tested. The experienced eye of your contractor can spot incipient problems long before a hurricane tests your roof’s critical parts.
Hurricane Zones
Florida building codes have grown more stringent over the years. Many buildings now lie in hurricane zones. They require improvements and upgrades to fastening systems.
Is your building’s roof up to code? Your trustworthy roofer will know what to look for and then what to do if it is not.
Repairs
Pinched by budgets and other, seemingly more pressing needs, some facilities managers defer roof repairs. This is a mistake in South Florida. As problems arise, have them fixed immediately.
Annual and semiannual inspections can reveal a lot of minor flaws in your low-slope roof. Quick action can keep a dozen minor issues from turning into one expensive re-roofing project.
Tending to a handful of small problems right away also helps make your roof more resistant to hurricane damage.
Waterproof
Few infrastructure budgets have room for a full re-roofing project right away. If you find you have to put off a needed new roof, consider waterproof coatings which hold back the hard rain from a hurricane. This will buy you a few more years while preventing water infiltration.
Plan for Reroofing
Commercial roofs in South Florida can degrade quickly due the beating sun, torn by winds, pelted by rains. Plan on working with your local roofing contractor more frequently for re-roofing.
When a new roof is finally needed, install a roof with a high wind rating. Ask your roofer for a material which holds down well and can withstand abuse from wind-borne debris.
Professional Roofers
Installing a hurricane-proof commercial roof takes skills and expertise. An average roof will never withstand the winds of even a low-level hurricane without some damages. It is important to partner with a reputable roofing company that has the experience in hurricane prone regions.
Closing Words
The first thing to do in getting your roof ready for hurricane season is to schedule an inspection by a licensed. We have all seen what major damages hurricanes can cause to buildings. To get the best protection, you need more than an average roof. If you need help to develop an effective hurricane strategy, contact us today for a free roof inspection.