When hurricane season approaches, your roof becomes your home’s first and most critical line of defense. A well-prepared roof can prevent tens of thousands of dollars in wind and water damage. On the other hand, an overlooked crack or missing shingle can turn into a major leak—or worse.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to prepare your roof for hurricane season, whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or part of a condominium association in New England.
Why Hurricane Preparation Matters in New England
Though hurricanes are more common in southern states, New England experiences intense nor’easters, tropical storms, and post-tropical cyclones that bring high winds, torrential rain, and coastal flooding.
Your roof must be able to withstand:
- Wind gusts over 100 mph
- Flying debris
- Saturating rainfall and wind-driven water
- Salt-laden air near the coast
Storm season begins in June and peaks from August through October—making early preparation essential.
Step 1: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Before storm season arrives, schedule a comprehensive inspection with a licensed roofing contractor. A trained eye will look for:
- Loose, cracked, or missing shingles
- Exposed or lifting nails
- Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
- Blocked or sagging gutters
- Moss or algae buildup
- Signs of leaks in the attic or ceiling
Learn what’s involved in Roof Inspections: What Homeowners Should Expect
After the inspection, you’ll receive a report outlining recommended repairs or improvements to boost your roof’s storm readiness.
Step 2: Reinforce Roofing Components
Small upgrades can make a big difference in wind resistance. Discuss the following reinforcements with your roofing contractor:
- Hurricane-rated shingles or fasteners
- Roof decking attachment improvements (e.g., ring-shank nails)
- Sealed roof deck systems using synthetic underlayments
- Hurricane clips or ties in attic framing
- Ridge vents secured with storm-tested caps
These upgrades help your roofing system stay intact during extreme winds, minimizing water intrusion and structural damage.
Step 3: Clean and Secure Gutters and Downspouts
Functional drainage is vital during heavy rains. Backups from clogged gutters can lead to:
- Ice dams in cooler months
- Roof deck rot
- Siding and foundation damage
Clean out all gutters and downspouts and ensure they’re securely attached. Consider adding gutter guards to reduce debris buildup.
Tip: Redirect downspouts away from your foundation by at least three feet.
Step 4: Trim Overhanging Trees and Branches
Hurricane-force winds can easily snap branches or uproot trees. These become dangerous projectiles and major roof hazards.
Before the season begins:
- Trim back any limbs hanging over your roof or driveway
- Remove dead trees or limbs that could fall in strong winds
- Secure loose landscape items that could blow onto your roof
If you have nearby pine trees, keep gutters especially clear, as needles can accumulate quickly.
Step 5: Review Your Insurance Coverage
Homeowners insurance typically covers storm damage—but only if your roof was well maintained.
Take time to:
- Review your policy’s wind and storm provisions
- Know your deductible for hurricane or wind-related claims
- Document the current condition of your roof with photos
- Save all inspection and repair receipts
Need help navigating storm claims? Liberty Roof Co. provides insurance assistance as part of our residential roofing services
Step 6: Create an Emergency Roof Repair Plan
Even with preparation, extreme storms can cause damage. Be ready with an emergency plan:
- Keep tarps, nails, and a hammer on hand to cover exposed areas temporarily
- Know how to safely access your attic to monitor leaks
- Have your roofer’s emergency contact information saved
- Take immediate post-storm photos for your insurance claim
Important: Never climb onto your roof during or immediately after a storm. Leave full inspections to professionals.
Step 7: Replace or Upgrade If Your Roof Is Aging
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan—or has suffered multiple repairs—it may not withstand another hurricane season. In many cases, a full replacement is more cost-effective than repeated patches.
Unsure if it’s time? Read Signs You Need a Roof Replacement, Not Just Repairs
Average roof lifespans:
- Asphalt shingles: 20–30 years
- Metal roofing: 40–70+ years
- Flat roofing (EPDM, TPO): 20–25 years
Ask about storm-resistant materials and installation techniques that meet or exceed local codes.
How Liberty Roof Co. Helps New England Homes Prepare
We specialize in hurricane and storm readiness for homes and properties throughout Rhode Island and coastal Massachusetts.
Our services include:
- Pre-storm inspections and repair
- Gutter maintenance and storm prep
- Emergency response after storms
- Roof replacement with hurricane-rated materials
- Documentation support for insurance claims
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Roof Before the Storm
Hurricane season doesn’t wait, and neither should you. A few proactive steps can make the difference between peace of mind and thousands in repairs.
