When Is Hurricane Season in Sarasota?
The Atlantic hurricane season is a six-month period, from June 1 to November 30, according to the National Hurricane Center. Sarasota's summer rainy season overlaps it, so roofs face heavy rain and wind for months. The best time to prepare is in the spring, before demand for roofers rises.
What Should You Check on Your Roof Before Hurricane Season?
Most storm damage starts where a roof is already weak. A pre-season check looks for those weak points.
- Lifted, curling or missing shingles, especially at edges and ridges
- Cracked, slipped or missing tiles
- Loose or corroded flashing at walls, chimneys and skylights
- Cracked pipe boots and damaged vents
- Loose drip edge or fascia at the roof edge
- Signs of leaks in the attic
Why Do Trees and Gutters Matter?
Overhanging limbs are one of the most common causes of roof damage in a storm. Trim branches that touch or hang over the roof well before storm season. Clear gutters, downspouts and roof valleys so heavy rain drains away instead of backing up under the roof edge.
What Should You Document Before a Storm?
Before-and-after photos make it much easier to show what a storm damaged, and if you compare this year's photos with last year's you can spot slow changes. If a storm does hit, our storm damage roofing page covers the next steps, including insurance and hurricane deductibles, and emergency roofing covers active leaks.
- Dated photos of each side of the roof, taken safely from the ground
- Photos of ceilings and the attic showing no existing stains
- Your roof's age, material and most recent permit
- A copy of your policy declarations page
Should You Replace an Old Roof Before Hurricane Season?
If an inspection shows the roof is near the end of its life, yes: spring is the last easy window before the season starts. Our guide to the best time to replace a roof in Sarasota covers how to plan around the dry season, the rainy season and the post-storm rush.