Buying Homes with Roof Systems to Hold Up to Hurricanes

Hurricanes are an increasingly dangerous weather pattern in Florida and a freak tropical storm can hit almost any time. To be prepared, you need to make sure you purchase a home with a sturdy and sustainable roof system that holds up to hurricanes. There are many types of homes and roofs in parts of the country that are subject to tropical storms and hurricanes, and it’s in your best interest to know what types of roofs and homes can best withstand this inclement weather pattern and wind loading considerations.

What to look for

Buying a home can be the most exciting purchase of your life, or it can be wrought with stress and buyer’s remorse. When you are choosing a house in Sarasota, make sure you have a full inspection of the roofing system of your potential new home. Insufficient roofing systems can be easily worn down or damaged, diminishing your family’s safety and comfort.

Look for the following roofing issues and heed this advice before you agree to buy a home:

• A well-maintained roof is better equipped to withstand rainy seasons and high-velocity winds. Make sure a roof has had its required maintenance.
• Ask what the age of the roof is, and what it is composed of. Get a list of when and where any repairs have taken place.
• Look for curling, missing, or loose shingles or roof tiles, especially along the edges of the roofing system.
• Research the type of roof and its age. Know the typical lifespan of the roof before you purchase the house.

Hurricane proofing your home

Once you’ve purchased your new home, you might want to take steps to hurricane-proof it – especially the roofing system. Replace bad or aging nails along your roof. These should be approximately four inches apart. Make sure the edges of your roof are sound, and, if needed, apply construction adhesive to lose or worn-down pieces. Replace any eroded shingles or roof tiles. If you are concerned about wind damage, apply roofing cement along the edge of each shingle.

Purchasing a home that can stand up to hurricanes

Whether or not you’re worried about hurricane damage, buying a home can be exciting and all-encompassing as a project. If you’d like to learn more about home buying and what to look for as you decide on a property, call Lee Brewer at (941)724-3448.