Summer in Michigan is a time of relaxation and enjoyment, thanks to the longer days, fair weather, and days spent by the pool. However, summer also brings with it the potential for several storms, from thunder and lightning to high winds, torrential rains, and even hail. If you’re not prepared, these sudden storms can take a big toll on the health of your roof.
Here’s how you can protect your property and prevent costly repairs when those summer storms roll in. If you do get hit by a storm, call a Troy roofer right away for an immediate repair before the problem worsens.
Common Threats of Michigan Summer Storms
Winter may bring its own challenges in the form of snow and ice, but summer poses its own hazards:
- Hail: Ice pellets ranging in size from peas to golf balls can crack shingles, damage gutters, and dent metal roofing.
- High Winds: Even wind gusts over 40 mph can lift shingles, tear off gutters, and loosen flashing.
- Heavy Rain: Prolonged downpours can overwhelm old or clogged gutters, leading to roof leaks and foundation damage.
If ignored, these threats can result in costly structural damage, not to mention water intrusion and long-term wear that reduces the lifespan of your roof.
Look For Early Signs of Vulnerability
Throughout the summer, inspect your exteriors, particularly the roof for:
- Missing or curled shingles: They can get lifted up by heavy winds.
- Granule loss: Check your gutters or downspouts for accumulation of black grit, which indicate aging and compromised protection.
- Sagging or clogged gutters: Water that’s hampered by debris can back up and get under the roof edge.
- Soft spots on your ceiling or attic: These signal damage from minor leaks.
- Cracked or dented flashing: Compromised flashing can’t properly form seals around chimneys, vents, and skylights.
Prepping the Roof and Exterior
A well-maintained roof is the best way to protect your home. Here are some tips on how to maintain it and the rest of your exteriors:
- Clean your gutters and downspouts. Scoop out leaves, pine needles, and roof granules so water can flow freely.
- Trim overhanging tree branches. Overhanging limbs can pierce and damage your roof during a storm, so keep them trimmed back.
- Reinforce loose shingles or flashing. Secure areas of concern from past storms.
- Check attic ventilation. Proper airflow prevents heat buildup and reduces humidity – two things that can worsen after a storm.
- Install gutter guards or splash blocks. These are good for water runoff management, and can also prevent erosion near your foundation.
Not only does preventative maintenance protect your home, it can keep more money in your wallet where it belongs.
Post-Storm Inspection
You may not notice any issues from the ground, but that doesn’t mean there’s no damage. After a storm, it’s important to check for hail and wind damage.
- Walk around your property and look for loose shingles or debris in the yard.
- Look for dents on your gutters.
- See if your gutters are starting to separate from the fascia.
- Look for interior signs of water infiltration, such as stains on ceilings, damp attic insulation, or musty odors.
- Take photos of any damage you see and get in touch with a Royal Oak roofer immediately. They can make the necessary repairs and help with insurance claims if necessary.
- Don’t attempt to get up on the roof yourself, as this can be dangerous—especially after a storm.
Contact McLean Roofing and Siding Today
Summer storms in Michigan can be unpredictable, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take proactive steps to be prepared. We can provide a full inspection before or after a storm, and provide any updates or repairs that may be needed. Contact us at (248) 524-1111 to schedule your free no-obligation estimate and consultation.