Hurricanes are a fact of life on Florida’s Gulf Coast. Your roof is the first barrier between your family and severe weather. Use this guide to prepare before storm season, protect your home when a system approaches, and take the right steps after the storm. If you need help at any point, the Gone Coastal Roofing team is here for a fast response in Sarasota.
Quick checklist
- Schedule a storm damage roof inspection before the season
- Clear gutters and downspouts
- Trim overhanging branches
- Secure or store outdoor items
- Photograph your roof and exterior for records
- Review insurance documents and save your policy number
- Know who to call for emergency roof repair in Sarasota: 941‑209‑0713
Hurricane roof prep, Florida: pre‑season steps
1. Book a professional roof inspection
Ask for a full condition report that covers shingles or tiles, flashing, ridge caps, vents, penetrations, fasteners, and decking. A documented storm damage roof inspection establishes a baseline for any future claim and catches small issues early.
2. Clean water paths
Remove debris from gutters and downspouts so heavy rain moves away from fascia, soffits, and walls. Check for sagging or loose sections.
3. Tighten the system
Replace lifted shingles, cracked tiles, loose ridge caps, missing fasteners, and damaged flashing. Seal minor penetrations. These small fixes improve wind resistance.
4. Consider targeted upgrades
- High-quality synthetic or peel-and-stick underlayment at eaves, valleys, and around penetrations
- Starter strips and properly lapped drip edge
- Hurricane clips or straps, where applicable
- Closure strips and sealed seams for metal roofing
- Impact-rated skylights or protective covers
5. Reduce nearby hazards
Trim limbs that hang over the roof. Store or anchor outdoor items like furniture, grills, and yard decor.
6. Create a storm file
Save roof photos, inspection reports, your contractor’s license and insurance info, and your insurance policy details. Keep backups in the cloud.
72 to 24 hours before landfall
- Walk the property from the ground and look for loose shingles or tiles, bent flashing, or blocked gutters
- Bring in outdoor furniture, toys, potted plants, and tools
- Park vehicles away from large trees
- Move valuables off the floor and cover with plastic sheeting if you see any ceiling stains
- Prepare buckets and towels for possible drips
- Charge phones and battery lights
- Do not climb on a wet or windy roof
If you see active roof damage, call 941‑209‑0713 for guidance on safe temporary protection.
During the storm
- Stay inside and follow local emergency updates
- Keep away from windows and exterior doors
- If water enters, protect people and pets first, then place buckets under drips and move items out of the way
- Turn off the power at the breaker to any area where water is contacting outlets or fixtures
After the storm: first steps
1. Safety first
Look for downed lines, gas odors, standing water, and structural issues. If you have concerns, wait for clearance from the authorities.
2. Document before cleanup
Take clear photos and short videos of roof surfaces from the ground, interior ceilings, attic access, exterior walls, and landscaping that may show where debris impacted.
3. Call a local roofing expert
Request a storm damage roof inspection as soon as it is safe. Professional tarping and temporary dry‑in protect your home from additional water intrusion.
4. Contact your insurer
Open a claim if you have damage. Share your photos and the contractor inspection report.
5. Avoid risky DIY
Walking on a damaged or wet roof is dangerous. Improper temporary repairs can void warranties or complicate claims. Let trained crews handle tarping and sealing.
When to call a pro immediately
- Visible leaks or ceiling stains
- Missing shingles, cracked tiles, or lifted metal panels
- Bent or missing flashing around chimneys, skylights, or vents
- Sagging roof lines or soft spots in the attic
- Large debris impacts or tree strikes
- Daylight is visible through the decking
- Repeated tripped breakers in areas below the roof
The Gone Coastal Roofing team provides emergency response, temporary dry‑in, and full repair or replacement for Sarasota homes.
Call 941‑209‑0713 for immediate help.
Prevention that pays off
- Schedule annual maintenance before storm season
- Keep gutters, valleys, and roof surfaces free of debris
- Replace brittle sealants around penetrations
- Check attic ventilation and insulation to limit heat and moisture buildup
- Consider metal roofing for higher wind performance and long service life
- Keep your inspection and warranty paperwork in one place
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I schedule a storm damage roof inspection in Sarasota?
Once per year, before hurricane season, is recommended. Schedule another inspection after any significant wind or hail event.
Will tarping stop all leaks?
Tarping is a temporary measure that reduces water intrusion until permanent repairs are completed. Proper installation by a professional improves effectiveness.
Does insurance cover hurricane roof damage?
Many policies cover sudden storm damage. Coverage varies by policy. Your inspection report and photos support your claim.
Is metal roofing better for Sarasota storms?
Metal roofing offers strong wind uplift performance when installed correctly. Architectural shingles and tile systems can also perform well when maintained and detailed according to Florida’s best practices.
Need help now
For emergency roof repair, professional tarping, or a same-day storm damage roof inspection, contact Gone Coastal Roofing.
Call 941‑209‑0713
Request service at: https://gonecoastalroofing.com/