Helpful resources for those impacted by a hurricane
What should you do after a damaging hurricane?
Once the storm has passed, it’s important to evaluate whether your home or property has been damaged. Here’s guidance for what you may need to do to repair or replace your roof.
Safety first
Evaluate and document damage
The right contractor can help protect your home from further damage
Contractors have different specialties. To find the right contractor, be sure they are experienced with emergency repairs that can prevent further damage to your property after the hurricane has passed.
Tarp the roof
A sturdy tarp can help cover holes or loose shingles and provide a temporary barrier against rain and wind. This is a project you may want to leave to a roofing pro.
Board Windows
Boarding windows is usually a two-person job, often done before the storm hits. Half-inch or 3/4 inch plywood provides impact resistance during the storm and rain resistance in case of broken glass.
Remove standing water
Use a shop vac to remove any indoor standing water. Be sure to wear waterproof footwear that reaches above the waterline, and be very careful around water that reaches electrical outlets.
Dry out wet areas
To help prevent mold, use a powerful fan(s) to help completely dry any wet areas. Be prepared to replace soaked wallboard or upholstered furniture.
Navigating the insurance process
Working with your insurance company — possibly for the first time — can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. When a storm hits, taking these simple steps should make navigating the insurance process easier than you might expect.
Federal Hurricane Resources
Federal assistance is available to eligible individuals and families affected by disaster. See if your area has been declared for Individual Assistance and apply online.
Visit FEMA for quick links to National, State, and Local disaster recovery resources
Florida Hurricane Ian - fema.gov/disaster/4673
Disaster Resources - fema.gov/disaster
FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) are accessible facilities and mobile offices you can visit to learn more about FEMA and other disaster assistance programs.
How do hurricanes affect a roof? Hurricane damage 101
Hurricanes can bring a combination of wind, rain, lightning, debris, and sometimes even hail. Each of these can have its own unique impact on your roof. Find out how.
How heavy rain can affect your roof
Over time, heavy rains can slowly wear away your roof protection, washing off granules, weakening the bond between shingles, or penetrating to the roof deck. Hurricane-force rain can accelerate this damage, dislodging shingles, enlarging small leaks, or penetrating behind loosened flashing.
How high winds can affect your roof
High winds can affect your roof in two general ways: shingle blow-off or wind uplift. A powerful gust of wind may catch a lifted edge of a shingle or piece of flashing and blow it off. Wind uplift is more complex. When there is high pressure below a surface and low pressure above, the resulting forces can lift whole sections of roof or other surfaces.
How flying debris can affect your roof
Hurricane wind can toss tree branches and furniture around at speeds of 150 mph or more. Debris can crack shingles, loosen flashing, and even drive holes through the roof structure, causing damaging leaks. Secure your belongings before the storm, and inspect your roof immediately after.
How a lightning strike can affect your roof
While most people know that lightning strikes can cause fires, fewer know they can cause shockwaves that may loosen building structures including shingles, chimney bricks, and flashing. If you suspect your roof has been struck, contact a roofer for an inspection.