June marks the official start of Atlantic hurricane season — and if you’re a homeowner in Volusia County, that means one thing: it’s time to take a hard look at your roof before the storms roll in. A compromised roof can turn a manageable storm into a catastrophic loss. The good news? A little preparation now can save you thousands — and a lot of stress — later.
At Affordable Roofing and Construction, we’ve been protecting homes across Daytona Beach, Port Orange, New Smyrna Beach, Ormond Beach, DeLand, and Deltona for over 20 years. Here’s exactly what you need to know to get your roof hurricane-ready.
Why Your Roof Is Your Home’s First Line of Defense
During a hurricane or tropical storm, your roof takes the full brunt of wind, rain, and debris. A well-maintained roof doesn’t just keep you dry — it maintains the structural integrity of your entire home. When a roof fails during a storm, interior damage to ceilings, walls, flooring, and belongings can escalate repair costs from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands.
Florida building codes have evolved significantly after Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and the devastating 2004 to 2005 storm seasons. But even code-compliant roofs need regular maintenance to perform when it counts.
6 Steps to Prepare Your Roof Before Hurricane Season
1. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
This is the single most important thing you can do. A licensed roofing contractor can identify problems that aren’t visible from the ground — lifted shingles, deteriorating flashing, soft spots in the decking, compromised seals around vents and chimneys. In Volusia County’s climate, UV exposure and humidity accelerate wear year-round, so even a relatively new roof can have vulnerable spots.
Affordable Roofing and Construction offers free estimates — call us at 386-392-8952 to schedule yours before the season peaks.
2. Check and Replace Damaged or Missing Shingles
Missing, cracked, or curling shingles are an open invitation for wind-driven rain. In sustained winds of 60 to 80 mph — common in a Category 1 storm — a single lifted shingle can start a chain reaction that strips entire sections of your roof. Before hurricane season, replace any damaged shingles and have the surrounding area inspected for underlying damage.
When doing replacements ahead of storm season, ask about impact-resistant shingles rated for 130+ mph winds. They cost more upfront but can qualify you for homeowner’s insurance discounts in Florida.
3. Inspect and Reseal Flashing
Flashing is the metal material that seals joints around chimneys, skylights, vents, and roof valleys. It’s one of the most common sources of leaks — even without storm damage. Old, cracked, or improperly installed flashing fails quickly under heavy rain. Have your contractor check every transition point and reseal or replace as needed.
4. Clear Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can’t handle the volume of water that comes with a tropical storm — often 5 to 10 inches of rain in a matter of hours. When gutters overflow, water backs up under the eaves and can work its way under your roofing material. Clean gutters and downspouts now, and make sure downspouts extend at least 6 feet from your foundation.
5. Trim Overhanging Trees
In Central Florida, mature oaks, palms, and pines are beautiful — until a hurricane turns them into projectiles. Branches overhanging your roof should be trimmed back at least 10 feet. Dead or dying trees near the house should be removed entirely. This isn’t just roof protection — falling trees are one of the leading causes of total home loss during hurricanes.
6. Consider a Secondary Water Barrier
Florida’s updated building code now requires a secondary water barrier on new construction — a self-adhering underlayment that keeps water out even if shingles are torn away. If your roof was built before 2007, it may not have this protection. Retrofitting a secondary water barrier during a re-roof project adds significant storm resilience and may lower your insurance premiums.
Warning Signs Your Roof May Not Survive Hurricane Season
Don’t wait until a storm reveals a problem. Look for these warning signs now:
- Age: Asphalt shingle roofs typically last 15 to 25 years in Florida’s climate. If yours is approaching or past that range, have it assessed before the season starts.
- Granules in gutters: Excessive granule loss means shingles are nearing end of life and won’t perform well under storm stress.
- Sagging areas: Any visible dip or sag indicates structural issues — possibly rotted decking or compromised rafters.
- Interior water stains: Stains on ceilings or in your attic mean water is already getting in. That gap will widen dramatically in a storm.
- Daylight in the attic: If you can see light through your roof deck from inside the attic, you have an urgent repair need.
What to Do After a Storm
Even if your roof survives the season, post-storm inspection is critical. Wind and flying debris can cause damage that isn’t immediately obvious but will lead to leaks and deterioration over time. After any named storm or severe weather event:
- Don’t walk on your roof — let a professional assess it safely
- Document any visible damage with photos before making temporary repairs
- Call your insurance company to report damage promptly
- Contact a licensed roofing contractor for a damage assessment
Important: Be cautious of out-of-state storm chasers who show up after hurricanes. Work with a local, licensed contractor who will be around to honor their warranty. Affordable Roofing and Construction is based right here in Volusia County — we’re your neighbors, and we’re not going anywhere.
Check Your Florida Homeowner’s Insurance Now
Before hurricane season, review your homeowner’s insurance policy carefully. Know your deductibles — many Florida policies have a separate, higher hurricane deductible (often 2 to 5 percent of your home’s insured value, not a flat dollar amount). Understand what’s covered, what’s excluded, and what documentation your insurer will require for a claim.
Some proactive upgrades — high-wind-rated shingles, secondary water barriers, hurricane straps — can qualify you for Florida’s My Safe Florida Home program discounts. Ask us about upgrades that may reduce your premiums while improving your protection.
Serving Volusia County and Central Florida
Affordable Roofing and Construction has been serving Central Florida homeowners for over 20 years. We’re fully licensed and insured (CCC 1327602 | CGC 1509441), and we back our work with a 5-year labor warranty. We serve Daytona Beach, Port Orange, New Smyrna Beach, Ormond Beach, DeLand, Deltona, and surrounding Central Florida communities.
Get Your Free Roof Inspection Before the Season Peaks
Hurricane season runs June through November, with peak activity in August and September. That gives you a window to identify and address problems before conditions deteriorate. Don’t put it off.
Call Affordable Roofing and Construction at 386-392-8952 or contact us online for your free estimate. We’ll give you an honest assessment of your roof’s condition and the options available — no pressure, no obligation. Your roof is your home’s most important protection. Make sure it’s ready.
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