As a Florida resident, you know our state sees more than its fair share of intense storms that spawn Wind damage tornadoes and high winds. In fact, Florida experiences the most tornadoes per square mile of any US state according to NOAA data. Especially in the central and southern reaches. When formidable windstorms bear down, protecting your residential or commercial property is the top priority. 

Structural damage, Debris hazards, and destruction to your property’s exterior envelope from extreme wind exposure brings both safety risks and expensive repairs. But there are proactive measures to secure your buildings, parking, roofing, and other structures that can significantly reduce wind damage when gale force gusts blow through. 

The storm safety experts at Top Builder Roofing detail key strategies Florida owners should implement before wind season:  

Tip #1: Inspect and Safeguard Your Roofing

Wind Damage

 

Since roofs serve as your first line of defense as storms approach, protecting their integrity should be Job #1. Consider evaluations of your roof’s age, material durability, fastening security and ability to withstand high winds. Have a roofer address any worn materials. Flashings and seals prone to blow-offs that leave interiors vulnerable to water intrusion when storms strike unexpectedly.

Also clear your roof and surrounding property of any loose vegetation, patio furniture, garbage cans and more that get tossed about by wind. Debris bashing into your home can puncture siding and crack windows in the melee. 

Tip #2: Prune All Nearby Trees  

While lovely shade trees enhance any home or business landscape, broad leafed varieties become dangerous projectiles on established root structures as wind flexes their limbs. Have an arborist survey trees on your property, looking for weak branch unions, decaying trunks and other defects that boost failure chances in storms. Strategically remove risk liabilities through selective trimming, cabling and reinforcements before hurricane season.  

Tip #3: Check Entry Points and Openings

Perform an audit of any exterior openings like garage doors. Patios and points of entry that wind pressure and debris could compromise in storms. Reinforce framing and apply impact-resistant laminate films to glass that boost security. Also ensure any loose architectural elements, store signage, or hardware have sturdy anchoring to avoid blowing loose.

Tip #4: Evaluate Wind Resistance Standards  

When commissioning new Florida buildings. Utilize updated engineering guidance and fortified building codes for your area that account for intensifying wind events due to our changing climate. This includes heightened standards for roof deck attachments, structural connectors, and wall/frame bracing. Examine your exposure levels, And have an assessment performed to determine vulnerabilities requiring retrofits to meet modern wind resistance and protect what matters most.  

Wind Damage Secure Professional Guidance to Protect Your Property  

Don’t leave the resilience of your property up to chance against Florida’s windstorms. By taking proactive precautions and having qualified assessments performed. Damage risks substantially lower along with repair costs when the weather inevitably turns gusty and severe. Trust the storm safety and preparedness experts at Top Builder Roofing for reliable guidance tailored to your situation.