How to Keep Your Roof Safe During Atlanta's Tornado Season

When the skies over Atlanta turn greenish-gray, and the wind starts to howl, it's tornado season. Your roof is on the front lines of this battle. Georgia may not be smack in the middle of Tornado Alley. Still, we get our fair share of twisters, especially during spring and early summer. When a tornado hits, your roof often takes the brunt of it.

How can you keep your roof ready for tornadoes? What should you do if a storm leaves your shingles scattered like confetti after a rowdy tailgate? Here's your Castle Roofing-approved guide to roof safety before and after the storm.

Step 1: Know the Signs of a Storm-Ready Roof

Here's how to prepare your roof for a windy warzone:

• Inspect Your Roof Regularly: Look for loose or missing shingles, rusted flashing, sagging gutters, or anything that screams "Fix me!"

• Trim Nearby Trees: Overhanging limbs are nature's battering rams. Trim them before they get too close.

• Secure Loose Items: Patio furniture, grills, and lawn decorations can become airborne missiles. Tie them down or store them inside when severe weather is on the radar.

• Check Your Attic: Are water stains or daylight peeking through boards? Your roof may already be compromised.

Step 2: After the Storm Hits

If your roof just survived a tornado or took a direct hit, don't panic. Take these steps first:

• Stay Safe: If your home's structural integrity is compromised, don't try to inspect the roof yourself. Wait for emergency personnel to give the all-clear.

• Document the Damage: Snap photos of everything from the shingles in the yard to ceiling leaks to dented gutters. Your insurance company will love you for it.

• Call a Local Roofing Expert: Don't fall for door-to-door "contractors" who are uninvited. Call someone like Castle Roofing right away. 

Step 3: Tornado-Proofing for the Future

Okay, so maybe "tornado-proof" is a stretch, but you can make your roof more storm-resilient:

• Upgrade to Impact-Resistant Shingles: These tough guys can withstand high winds and hail better than standard shingles.

• Reinforce Roof Decking: Ask your contractor about secondary water barriers and hurricane straps. Even in Georgia, they make a difference.

• Schedule Annual Roof Maintenance: Consider it a check-up for your home's helmet.

When in doubt, give us a call before the next storm does.