5 Essential Ways to Prepare Your Roof for Texas Storm Season

If you live in McKinney, Frisco, or anywhere in the DFW metroplex, you know that “storm season” can feel like a year-round event. From the violent thunderstorms of spring to the hurricane remnants of late summer, our roofs are constantly under threat from high winds, torrential rain, and, of course, destructive hail.

Proactive preparation is a homeowner’s best defense. Taking a few key steps before the worst of the weather arrives can mean the difference between sailing through a storm unscathed and dealing with a costly, stressful leak. Here are five essential ways to prepare your roof for the unpredictable Texas weather.

1. Conduct a Thorough Visual Inspection (From the Ground!)

You don’t need to get on a ladder to spot the most common warning signs. Grab a pair of binoculars and walk around your property, paying close attention to the surface of your roof. Look for:

• Missing or Damaged Shingles: A single missing shingle is an open invitation for a leak. Look for shingles that are cracked, curling at the edges, or “flapping” in the breeze.
• Dark Spots or Algae Growth: While not an emergency, dark streaks can indicate moisture is being retained and can signal the age of the roof.
• Loose Flashing: Pay close attention to the metal strips around your chimney, vents, and skylights. This flashing is a common failure point, and any pieces that look loose or rusted need immediate attention.

2. Clean Out Your Gutters and Downspouts

This is one of the most critical and often-overlooked maintenance tasks. Your gutters are designed to channel thousands of gallons of water away from your roof and foundation. If they are clogged with leaves and debris, the water has nowhere to go. It will back up onto your roofline, seeping under shingles and rotting the wood decking and fascia boards. A clean gutter system is your roof’s best friend in a downpour.

3. Trim Overhanging Tree Limbs

High winds can turn a beautiful, mature tree into a serious threat. Overhanging branches can scrape against your shingles, wearing away their protective granules over time. In a severe storm, these limbs can snap and fall, puncturing your roof and causing catastrophic damage. Be proactive and trim back any branches that are touching or looming over your roof.

4. Secure Your Yard and Attic

Your roof’s safety also depends on its surroundings. High winds can turn everyday objects into dangerous projectiles. Before a storm is forecast:

• Secure Patio Furniture: Store or tie down patio umbrellas, chairs, grills, and trampolines.
• Check Attic Vents: From inside your attic, ensure that your vent covers are securely fastened and that there are no obvious gaps or holes that could allow wind-driven rain to enter.

5. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

While a ground-level check is great, nothing beats the peace of mind that comes from a professional assessment. A trained roofing expert from a trusted local company like Good Work Roofing can safely get on your roof to spot subtle issues you can’t see from the ground.

We can identify bruised shingles from a past hail storm, check the sealant around pipes and vents, and ensure your roof is structurally sound and ready for whatever the Texas sky throws at it. A pre-season inspection is a small investment that can prevent thousands of dollars in emergency repairs.

Don’t Wait for the Storm Sirens

Being proactive is the key to protecting your biggest investment. If you haven’t had your roof professionally inspected in the last year, now is the time.

Ready to storm-proof your McKinney home?

Contact Good Work Roofing today to schedule a comprehensive, no-obligation roof inspection. We’ll help you ensure your home is ready and resilient for storm season.