What should I do immediately after a hurricane damages my roof?

First, ensure your safety—never climb on a damaged roof. Document all visible damage with photos and videos from ground level. Cover any openings with tarps if safely accessible. Contact your insurance company to file a claim within 24 hours. Then call a licensed roofing contractor like RJ Chambers ((954) 461-7128) for an emergency assessment. We offer 2-hour emergency response throughout South Florida.

How do I know if my roof damage is covered by insurance?

Most Florida homeowner's insurance policies cover wind and hurricane damage, but coverage varies. Review your policy for wind/hurricane deductibles (often 2-5% of home value) and exclusions. Document everything thoroughly—photos, videos, receipts. RJ Chambers has extensive experience with insurance claims and can help you navigate the process to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Should I make temporary repairs or wait for the insurance adjuster?

Make temporary repairs ONLY to prevent further damage (tarping holes, covering broken skylights). This is actually required by most insurance policies—they expect you to 'mitigate' damage. Document everything before and after temporary repairs. Do NOT make permanent repairs until the adjuster has inspected. Keep all receipts—temporary repair costs are typically reimbursable.

How long does it take to get a roof replaced after a hurricane?

Timeline depends on storm severity and contractor availability. After major hurricanes, wait times can extend 3-6 months due to demand. Working with an established local contractor helps—RJ Chambers prioritizes our South Florida community and has replaced over 600 roofs after Hurricane Wilma alone. We maintain relationships with suppliers to ensure material availability.

What makes a roof 'hurricane-resistant' in Florida?

Florida Building Code requires roofs in High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (Miami-Dade, Broward) to meet stringent wind resistance standards. Key features include: enhanced nailing patterns (6 nails per shingle minimum), hurricane straps connecting roof to walls, impact-resistant materials, sealed roof decks, and proper flashing. RJ Chambers installs all roofs to meet or exceed current Florida Building Code requirements.

Is it worth upgrading to impact-resistant roofing materials?

Absolutely. Impact-resistant roofing can reduce insurance premiums by 10-25% in Florida. Materials rated to withstand wind-borne debris (like Class 4 impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing) provide better protection and long-term savings. Many also qualify for additional Florida insurance discounts through the My Safe Florida Home program.

How can I verify a roofing contractor is legitimate after a storm?

After hurricanes, scam contractors target affected areas. Always verify: FL state license (check at myfloridalicense.com), local business history, insurance coverage, and references. RJ Chambers Roofing has served South Florida since 1982 (License #CCC026462), with 2,000+ roofs replaced and a 5-star Google rating from 60+ verified reviews. We're BBB accredited and have deep roots in this community.

Hurricane Season Guide

Since 19825-Star

Hurricane Roofing Guide for South Florida

Quick Answer: Protect your South Florida home by scheduling a professional roof inspection 2-3 months before hurricane season, repairing any damage immediately, and ensuring your roof meets Florida Building Code wind resistance requirements (up to 180 mph for metal, 150 mph for tile). After a storm, document damage, contact your insurer within 24 hours, and call a licensed contractor for emergency repairs.

44+

Years Experience

600+

Post-Wilma Roofs

2 hours

Emergency Response

5 Star

60+ Reviews

Why Hurricane Roof Preparation Matters

South Florida faces unique roofing challenges. Here's what the data shows:

40%

Higher failure rate for damaged roofs in Category 3+ hurricanes

25"

Average rainfall during a single hurricane in South Florida

180 mph

Wind resistance of properly installed metal roofing

Living in South Florida means living with hurricane risk. With over 44 years of experience and 600+ roofs replaced after Hurricane Wilma alone, RJ Chambers Roofing has seen firsthand how proper preparation dramatically reduces storm damage—and how neglected roofs can lead to catastrophic losses.

This comprehensive guide covers everything South Florida homeowners need to know about protecting their roofs before, during, and after hurricane season.

6-Step Hurricane Roof Preparation Checklist

Follow this proven preparation timeline to protect your home before hurricane season.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

2-3 months before hurricane season

Have a licensed roofing contractor inspect your roof for loose shingles, damaged flashing, cracked tiles, and deteriorating seals. Addressing issues before hurricane season prevents small problems from becoming catastrophic failures.

Repair or Replace Damaged Components

1-2 months before hurricane season

Fix identified issues immediately. Replace missing shingles, reseal flashing, repair damaged tiles, and reinforce any weak points. In South Florida, damaged roofs fail at a 40% higher rate during Category 3+ hurricanes.

Clear Gutters and Drainage Systems

Monthly during hurricane season

Clean all gutters, downspouts, and drainage systems. Clogged gutters can cause water backup, leading to roof deck damage and interior flooding during heavy hurricane rainfall.

Trim Overhanging Trees and Branches

Before hurricane season begins

Remove tree branches within 10 feet of your roof. Flying debris is a leading cause of hurricane roof damage. Coordinate with a tree service for safe removal of large branches.

Document Your Roof's Condition

Annually and before each storm

Take dated photos and videos of your entire roof from multiple angles. This documentation is crucial for insurance claims if damage occurs. Store copies in cloud storage for safe access.

Review Insurance Coverage

Review annually before June 1st

Confirm your homeowner's insurance covers wind and hurricane damage. Understand your deductible and claims process. Consider additional coverage if you're in a high-risk zone.

Hurricane-Resistant Roofing Materials Compared

Choose the right roofing material for South Florida's hurricane-prone climate.

Metal Roofing

Up to 180 mph

Wind Rating

50+ years

Lifespan

Excellent

Hurricane Rating

Advantages:

Highest wind resistance
Fire resistant
Energy efficient
Longest lifespan

Considerations:

Higher upfront cost
Requires specialized installation

Concrete Tile

Up to 150 mph

Wind Rating

40-50 years

Lifespan

Very Good

Hurricane Rating

Advantages:

Excellent durability
Fire resistant
Classic Florida aesthetic

Considerations:

Heavy—requires structural support
Individual tiles can break

Architectural Shingles

Up to 130 mph

Wind Rating

25-30 years

Lifespan

Good

Hurricane Rating

Advantages:

Affordable
Wide variety of styles
Easy to repair

Considerations:

Lower wind rating than metal/tile
Shorter lifespan

Flat Roof (TPO/EPDM)

Up to 120 mph

Wind Rating

20-30 years

Lifespan

Good

Hurricane Rating

Advantages:

Ideal for commercial buildings
Energy efficient
Easy to maintain

Considerations:

Requires proper drainage
Edge sealing critical in high winds

After the Storm

What to Do After Hurricane Roof Damage

Take these steps immediately after a hurricane to protect your home and maximize insurance recovery.

First 24 Hours

1Ensure safety—never climb on a damaged roof
2Document all damage with photos and videos
3Contact your insurance company to file a claim
4Call RJ Chambers for emergency assessment

Temporary Repairs

Cover openings with tarps to prevent further water damage
Document temporary repairs with photos and receipts
Do NOT make permanent repairs before adjuster visit
Keep all damaged materials for inspection

24/7 Emergency Roofing Service

Storm damage won't wait, and neither will we. RJ Chambers offers 2 hoursemergency response throughout South Florida. Licensed, insured, and experienced with insurance claims.

License #CCC0264625-Star Rated

Hurricane Roofing FAQs

Answers to common questions from South Florida homeowners about hurricane roof damage and repair.

About This Guide

This hurricane roofing guide is written and maintained by the team at RJ Chambers Roofing Inc, South Florida's trusted roofing contractor since 1982. With 44+ years of experience, 2,000+ roofs replaced, and extensive post-hurricane recovery work (including 600+ roofs after Hurricane Wilma), we've developed deep expertise in protecting Florida homes from storm damage.

Licensed & Certified

FL State License

#CCC026462

BBB Accredited

A+ Rating

Est. 1982

44+ Years

5-Star Rating

60+ Google Reviews

Protect Your Home Before the Next Storm

Don't wait until hurricane season to discover roof problems. Schedule your free inspection today and get peace of mind for your family.

Serving Pembroke Pines, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and all of South Florida