Hurricane season in South Florida runs from June through November, and every year, homeowners are reminded how important it is to have a strong, storm-ready roof. Even a minor leak can turn into a major disaster when a tropical storm or hurricane brings high winds and heavy rainfall. At EW MacDowell Roofing, we’ve spent over 75 years helping South Florida homeowners and businesses prepare for storm season with inspections, repairs, replacements, and emergency roofing services. This guide covers everything you need to know to prepare your roof for hurricane season, protect your property, and prevent costly damage.
South Florida’s combination of intense sunshine, high humidity, and violent storms makes roofing one of the most important investments for property owners. A hurricane can bring sustained winds over 100 mph, ripping off shingles or tiles, tearing metal panels, and sending debris crashing into your roof. Preparing your roof ahead of time minimizes the risk of catastrophic leaks, interior damage, and costly roof repairs.
Insurance claims after hurricanes can also take months to process. The stronger and more storm-ready your roof is before the season begins, the less you’ll have to rely on insurance payouts that may only cover part of the damage.
The best place to start preparing your roof for hurricane season is with a thorough roof inspection. A trained eye can spot vulnerabilities you might miss, such as cracked tiles, lifted shingles, or deteriorating flashing. At EW MacDowell Roofing, our inspectors provide detailed reports and photos so you know exactly what needs attention before storm season begins.
During an inspection, we look for:
Small problems today can become massive headaches during a storm. A tiny leak or a missing shingle may seem insignificant now, but when hurricane-force winds and rain hit, those weak spots expand quickly. Handling these issues with professional roof repair before the season starts ensures your roof is sealed and secure.
Proper drainage is critical during hurricanes. Clogged gutters and downspouts cause water to pool on your roof, which increases the risk of leaks and structural damage. Cleaning your gutters at least twice a year, especially before storm season, helps water flow freely away from your roof and foundation. If your gutters are sagging or damaged, consider repairing or replacing them ahead of time.
Falling branches are one of the most common causes of hurricane roof damage. Trimming back overhanging tree limbs reduces the risk of impact during high winds. It’s also smart to secure or remove yard items like patio furniture, grills, and planters that could become flying debris in a storm.
Flashing and penetrations are some of the most vulnerable parts of any roof. Even if your shingles or tiles are intact, poorly sealed vents, chimneys, or skylights can let in water. During our inspections, we pay close attention to flashing details, resealing or replacing them as needed. Proactive maintenance here can prevent thousands in storm-related water damage.
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, hurricane season is the perfect reminder to consider a full roof replacement. Not all roofing materials perform equally well under Florida’s conditions:
Even with preparation, hurricanes can still cause damage. That’s why it’s important to have a plan for emergency roof repair. At EW MacDowell Roofing, our team responds quickly to stabilize roofs with tarps, sealants, and temporary fixes until permanent repairs can be made. Knowing who to call in an emergency gives you peace of mind during hurricane season.
Insurance companies require documentation to process claims. Before hurricane season, take clear photos of your roof from multiple angles, both inside and outside. Keep records of past inspections and any repairs. That way, if you need to file a claim after a storm, you have proof of your roof’s pre-storm condition.
Businesses in South Florida face unique challenges when storms hit. Flat roofs, HVAC systems, and skylights are all vulnerable points. At EW MacDowell Roofing, we provide commercial roof replacement and repairs tailored to commercial properties. Preparing your business roof before hurricane season can save you from downtime and lost revenue.
We recommend scheduling an inspection in the spring or early summer, before the season officially begins in June.
Most Florida homeowners insurance policies cover storm damage, but only if the roof was maintained. Inspections and records are key to successful claims.
If replacement is not in your budget, handle urgent repairs now. EW MacDowell Roofing also offers financing options for larger projects.
Preparing your roof for hurricane season is the best way to protect your home and family. Don’t wait until the next storm is already in the forecast. Contact EW MacDowell Roofing today to schedule your roof inspection and make sure your home is storm-ready. We proudly serve West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, Lake Worth, and communities across South Florida.
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E.W. MacDowell Inc. is here to be your expert roofing partner, helping you make the best decision for your home or business.
