How to Protect a Roof From Hurricane Damage

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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If you live in an area that's prone to hurricanes, you know well the damage such a devastating storm can wreak upon a house. Most often, high winds and heavy rains can cause the most damage to a roof. Here are some ways you can help protect your roof from hurricane damage.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Step1

Make sure gutters and drains are cleared. Blocked drainage can result in standing water on your roof after heavy rains associated with hurricanes. If too much water collects on the roof, it can collapse.

Step2

Check that flashing around the perimeter of the roof is secure and installed properly. If not, upwind pressure from hurricane-driven winds will peel off roof shingles and cause considerable damage.

Step3

Attach the roof rafters to studs with hurricane straps. Hurricane straps are strips of galvanized metal that hook over a rafter and are nailed to the stud past the wall plates. These are advisable in areas where hurricanes are common.

Step4

Glue sheathing to roof rafters and trusses with adhesive approved for such use. Ask at your local hardware store or home improvement center regarding which type of adhesive works best and meets specifications.

Step5

Reinforce side walls of the roof (called gables). Use braces placed in an X pattern, with the top end of one side against the top of the gable and the lower end attached to the bottom of the fourth truss, and the other side of X with the top against the roof peak and the bottom against the bottom center of the gable.

Tips & Warnings

Install fasteners or hurricane bars around the perimeter of the roof to protect it from high wind damage during a hurricane.
Hire a licensed contractor to install hurricane straps, as these can be difficult to install for the average homeowner.
Consult with an engineer or architect regarding the proper placement of gable support to ensure your side walls are fully protected.