How to Prepare Your Commercial Roof for the 2023 Hurricane Season

NOAA Predicts Above-Average 2023 Hurricane Season. Florida Property Managers Discover Expert Tips to Safeguard Your Commercial Flat Roof from Severe Damage and Leaks.

Florida Property Managers, prepare your commercial roof system now for the upcoming 2023 Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to November 30. With the latest forecast indicating an above-average hurricane season, it is crucial to take proactive measures to protect your commercial building. This post provides essential tips to safeguard your roof from potential damage during hurricanes. By following these guidelines, you can minimize the risk of leaks and major storm-related issues.

The 2023 Atlantic Hurricane Season Forecast

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and Colorado State University predict an above-average Atlantic hurricane season for 2023. The absence of El Niño and warmer-than-usual tropical and subtropical Atlantic Sea surface temperatures contribute to this forecast. The Weather Company estimates there will be 18 named storms, nine hurricanes, and four major hurricanes, including one Category 3 or higher on the Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Wind Scale.

Top 10 Tips on Preparing Your Commercial Roof from Hurricane Damages

• Implement Preventative Maintenance: Develop a comprehensive preventative maintenance plan for your roof and adhere to regular inspection protocols. We see 90% of roof leaks due to a lack of maintenance and repairs. 
• Address Repairs: Conduct necessary repairs promptly, addressing issues such as membrane damage, flashings, sealants, and drainage systems.
• Clear Drainage System: Remove debris that can block gutters, downspouts, and drains to ensure proper water flow during heavy rainfall.
• Secure Mechanical Equipment: Use hurricane straps to secure rooftop HVAC equipment, preventing damage caused by loose equipment rolling across the roof membrane.
• Trim Trees and Bushes: Keep trees and bushes at least three feet from the building to prevent damage to the roof system and minimize the accumulation of leaves in the drainage system.
• Protect Skylights: Cover older skylights with wood or metal cages to safeguard against flying debris during hurricanes.
• Ensure Proper Closure of Roof Hatch and Access Doors: Check that the roof hatch and access doors function correctly and can be securely closed.
• Review Warranty and Insurance Coverage: Review your roof warranty and insurance policy to ensure they are up to date. Seek clarification on coverage if needed.
• Update Emergency Contacts and Plans: Update and test your hurricane plan, ensuring all team members have access to emergency contacts, including your roofer, water restoration company, and insurance provider.
• Service Generator: Service your generator to ensure optimal performance and stockpile an adequate gasoline supply to avoid potential shortages during emergencies. Remember to operate generators outdoors and in well-ventilated areas.

Commercial Flat Roofs: Post-Hurricane Actions Checklist

• Check for Roof Leaks: Inspect the interior of the building for any signs of roof leaks. Take immediate measures to protect items that could be damaged by water.
• Document Damages: Document any damages with photographs and videos to facilitate the insurance claim process.
• Contact Insurance Provider: Initiate the claim process by contacting your insurance provider as soon as possible, which may involve a lengthy procedure.
• Engage a Professional Roofing Contractor: Consult a reputable roofing contractor to make necessary repairs using approved materials that comply with your roof system manufacturer’s guidelines, preserving your roof warranty. Remember in Florida, you have the right to “Dry In” your property to prevent further damage.
• Assess Roof Damage: If your commercial roof system experiences more than 25% water damage to the insulation, Florida laws mandate replacing the entire roof system.

Why Choose Advanced Roofing for Hurricane Roofing Services:

• Experienced and Dedicated Team: Advanced Roofing has a strong presence in Florida, with seven offices, 75 service vehicles, and a team of over 600 employees.
• Emergency Preparedness: Advanced Roofing has an emergency off site communication system to ensures that we can be reached during and after a storm.
• Fuel and Supplies: A reserve of fuel and supplies are stored for our entire fleet, enabling quick mobilization for emergency repairs.
• Advanced Access: Cloud-based roof management technology provides real-time access to warranty documents, allows you to dispatch repair crews and enables project tracking.
• Roof Connect Network: As a founding member of Roof Connect, we have a network of 3,000 roofers across the nation to assist us with roof repairs following a major storm.

Why Choose Advanced Roofing for Hurricane Roofing Services:

Schedule Your Hurricane Season Roof Inspections Today

Don’t let the upcoming hurricane season catch you off guard. Reduce the stress of hurricane planning by taking proactive measures now. Schedule preventive roof maintenance inspections and repairs for your commercial roof to ensure its resilience.

Contact us today at (800) 638-6869 or click here for a free roof inspection and project estimate.