Storm season isn’t a maybe—it’s a when. High winds, heavy rain, hail, and flying debris can tear through your roof and open the door to serious damage. The good news? You don’t have to just cross your fingers and hope for the best.

Here’s how to protect your roof before, during, and after the storm hits.

1) Schedule a Roof Inspection Before Storm Season Starts

The best defense is knowing your roof’s current condition. A professional inspection can catch loose shingles, cracked flashing, or clogged gutters—issues that storms turn into disasters.

• Look for signs of wear: lifted shingles, missing granules, sagging areas
• Fix minor problems now—they’ll be major ones later
• In storm-prone areas like Kansas City, yearly inspections are a smart move

2) Trim Nearby Trees and Remove Weak Branches

Strong winds can snap overhanging branches like twigs. When those land on your roof, they don’t just bounce—they break shingles, puncture decking, and tear off gutters.

• Trim limbs back at least 6–10 feet from the roofline
• Remove dead or diseased trees entirely
• Don’t forget to clean up yard debris that could become airborne

3) Clear Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters don’t just overflow—they force water under your shingles and into your attic. During heavy rain, proper drainage keeps your roof from becoming a sponge.

• Clean gutters and downspouts at the start of storm season
• Check for sagging sections or loose hangers
• Consider installing gutter guards to prevent clog buildup

4) Secure or Reinforce Vulnerable Areas

Some parts of your roof are more likely to fail under stress. Focus on:

• Ridge vents and flashing—make sure they’re sealed tight
• Skylights and chimneys—check for cracked seals or missing mortar
• Roof-mounted equipment—HVAC units and solar panels should be firmly anchored

If you live in a high-wind or hail zone, ask about impact-resistant shingles or roof clips for added protection.

5) Check Your Insurance Policy and Document Your Roof

Before a storm rolls in, know what your insurance actually covers. Take a few clear photos of your roof now, just in case you need proof later.

• Make sure your policy includes wind and hail coverage
• Keep updated photos of your roof, siding, and any valuables in the attic
• If you’ve had roof repairs or upgrades, save the paperwork

Bonus Tip: Don’t Climb the Roof After the Storm

After a storm, resist the urge to get up there yourself. You can’t see structural weakness from above—and one wrong step could land you in the ER. Call a professional instead. Most roofing companies offer free post-storm inspections.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Storms are unpredictable, but your roof protection plan shouldn’t be. A few smart steps today can save you thousands in emergency repairs tomorrow.

Need a pre-storm inspection or want to upgrade your roof’s defenses? [Contact us now]—we’ll help you get storm-season ready, fast.