Metal Roofing For Perfect Storm Protection

Storm protection is vital when protecting your home from damage done by wind and debris. The steps you take in protecting your home from the punishing wind and rain of a tornado, snow storm, or other disaster will also protect you and your loved ones as well as your belongings.

Loose shingles, especially at the edge of your roof, are extremely susceptible to creating a huge problem for your roof. The wind can easily catch the edge of a loose shingle and rip it free with more shingles follow. Also, if there’s any exposure of the roofing nails, water can infiltrate and cause mold or the underlying materials to rot.

Be sure to check your roof carefully for loose shingles and leaks, especially around the edges. It’s important to have shingles and leaks repaired immediately or further damage will likely take place.

One of the best investments you can make for your home is installing a metal roof. Metal roofs not only help with homeowners with energy efficiency costs, but can offer a layer of the highest protection available against storm damage.

Of all the roofing materials, metal is the strongest and most durable. It can withstand hurricane force winds, hail, debris, and more. With a metal roof, you won’t have the problems associated with asphalt, wood, ceramic, or more vulnerable materials.

Metal roofs can last a lifetime and are often guaranteed for lifetime use by the manufacturer. The high quality of the metal adds a layer of protection for underlying materials and your personal assets. An extra layer of insulation can also be applied, just ask about it when it’s time to replace your roof.

Also, a good idea is to check with your tax professional because you may end up with tax credits or other advantages for replacement with metal roofing on your taxes.

You can increase the value of your home while protecting it from the elements with the installation of a metal roof and making some inspections and repairs around your home. Here are some things you can do:

1. Waterproof your home – Wherever possible, caulk around openings for cable wires, phone wires and other utilities into your home. All of them are entry points for water which could get between your walls and cause mold – a major health hazard for your family.
2. Make sure soffits are sealed – the material that covers the underside of the roof overhang. High winds can drive rain nearly horizontally, and force it up under the overhang and into your house. Make sure that the soffit is securely attached to the roof overhang AND sealed against the house to prevent water from entering.
3. Protect openings – The biggest entry points for rain and wind into your home are the same ones that you use to get in and out – the doors and windows. Strong winds can exert hundreds of pounds of pressure both inward and outward on your doors and windows.
4. Carports – Free standing carports are actually less likely to take damage (and cause damage to the rest of the home) than attached carports. For both, the most important factor is how well the roof is anchored.
5. Reinforce outdoor structures – Storage sheds, cabanas, gazebos and carports can become airborne and lethal during a hurricane. Inspect porch roofs to be sure that they are securely anchored in place. If they’re not, have the anchors reinforced.

Always be sure to check with your hazard insurer carrier to see which improvements will give you a discount on your premium. Also, remember your tax professional can help you to find out if you can get credits or reimbursements for installing metal roofing.

*Sources: http://plrplr.com/38551/protect-your-home-from-florida-s-storms-and-hurricanes/