Spring is here and that means it’s storm season in central Texas. Rapidly changing temperatures and fast-moving weather fronts bring lightning, thunder, strong winds and hail that put our roofs to the test. While many roofing systems are manufactured and tested to withstand hail, there are some things you can do to help your roof stand up to mother nature.

1 – Get a roof inspection

Hiring a professional roofing contractor like Texas Traditions Roofing for an inspection is something that should be done once a year at a minimum. During the inspection, we check the overall health of your roof and recommend minor repairs that can stop small issues from turning into much larger problems.

2 – Clean your gutters

If you have debris in your gutters, including twigs or leaves, this can prevent rainwater from being carried away from your home. If water cannot drain, it will back up and overflow, potentially finding its way into your home along the foundation.

3 – Trim tree branches

If you have mature trees with limbs extending over your home, you want to think about trimming those branches. While the shade provided by the tree is nice in the summer, if the limbs come into contact with your roof, they can cause damage to the roofing material or shingle. Something as simple as a strong wind gust could cause the limbs to scrape the surface. Even worse, if the branches are brittle, they could easily snap off during a storm and cause puncture damage to the roof.

4 – Replace your roof

If your roof is showing signs of aging or damage, it might be time to think about a new roof. Consider choosing a roofing material that has achieved Class 4 hail impact resistance, the highest level of hail resistance available. Our trusted roof advisors can help you determine if it is time for a roof replacement and help you choose the most reliable roofing system for your home.

5 – Talk to your insurance agent

If you do experience a hailstorm and find that you have roofing damage, you will probably want to submit a claim to your insurance company to help with the cost of repairs or replacement. Don’t wait until you experience severe weather to find out what your insurance policy covers. Visit with your insurance agent to review your coverages and add additional coverage if needed.

By taking these steps, you will be as prepared as possible when the storms roll through. Should you suspect that you have damage following a storm, contact us and we can provide a thorough assessment and help you navigate the storm restoration and repair process.