Storm-Ready: How to Prepare Your Asphalt Shingle Roof for Severe Weather

When severe weather looms, your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Taking the time to prepare now can save you thousands in storm-related roof repair costs later. Whether you're a hands-on homeowner or prefer to call in a roofing company, here's how to storm-proof your asphalt shingle roof with smart, proactive steps.

1. Start with a Visual Inspection

Before the thunder rolls in, give your roof a once-over—either with binoculars from the ground or by hiring a trusted roofing company for a more thorough assessment. Keep an eye out for:

• Missing, cracked, or curling shingles

• Exposed nail heads

• Discoloration or granule loss

• Loose flashing near chimneys, skylights, or vents

• Any sagging or soft spots in the decking

These issues may seem minor, but in a storm, they can quickly escalate. A neglected shingle today could be a major roof repair tomorrow.

2. Clean Your Gutters and Clear the Roof

Leaves and twigs might not seem dangerous, but clogged gutters can cause water to back up under shingles and rot your fascia boards. Prioritize your roofing maintenance by:

• Clearing gutters and downspouts

• Ensuring water drains away from your home

• Trimming any overhanging branches that could damage shingles during high winds

A clean, debris-free roof not only looks better but also performs better in storm conditions.

3. Reinforce Vulnerable Areas

Storms tend to exploit weak spots. Focus your roofing maintenance efforts on:

• Valleys where two roof planes meet

• Eaves and rakes along the roof’s edge

• Areas around chimneys, plumbing vents, and other roof penetrations

Reinforce these zones with proper flashing, underlayment, and roofing cement. In areas prone to high winds, adhesive tabs offer an extra layer of defense.

4. Reseal Loose Shingles

Loose or lifted shingles are an open invitation for wind and water damage. Use roofing adhesive to reseal tabs that are coming up. If you're unsure whether the issue is cosmetic or structural, let a qualified roofing company take a look—what seems minor might point to more serious problems.

5. Check Attic Ventilation and Insulation

Storms don’t just bring rain—they often bring rapid temperature shifts. A well-ventilated attic helps regulate heat and moisture, keeping your asphalt shingles in peak condition.

Inspect your attic to ensure:

• Ridge and soffit vents are unobstructed

• There’s no mold or damp insulation

• Insulation is evenly distributed and dry

Good airflow strengthens your roof’s overall performance during a storm and reduces the risk of post-storm issues.

6. Document Your Roof’s Condition

Take detailed photos of your roof before storm season hits. This documentation can be invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim after a storm.

Be sure to capture:

• Wide shots of the full roof

• Close-ups of valleys, flashing, and individual shingles

• Gutter systems and any visible structural features

Save your images to the cloud or a physical drive—just in case.

7. Review Your Warranty and Insurance Coverage

Understanding your protection is as crucial as roofing maintenance itself. Review your roofing material warranty and homeowners insurance for details like:

• What types of storm damage are covered (wind, hail, water, etc.)

• Whether DIY repairs impact your warranty

• Maintenance requirements for coverage to remain valid

Knowing what’s covered can help you avoid surprises during a stressful time.

8. Have a Storm Response Plan

Even the most prepared roofs can sustain damage. Be ready with an emergency action plan:

• Know which roofing company you’ll contact if disaster strikes

• Keep heavy-duty plastic or tarps for temporary coverage

• Prepare a basic toolkit with nails, adhesive, gloves, and a hammer

• Store emergency supplies somewhere accessible and dry

Fast action can mean the difference between a quick roof repair and costly water damage.

Why Asphalt Shingles Still Hold Up Strong

When installed and maintained properly, asphalt shingles are surprisingly storm-resilient. Many are rated to withstand:

• Wind speeds of up to 130 mph

• Class 3 or 4 impact resistance

• UV and algae protection for long-term performance

Routine roofing maintenance and high-quality materials give your roof the best chance of weathering the storm.

Final Thoughts

A little preparation goes a long way in protecting your home from storm damage. Whether you’re tackling tasks yourself or relying on a professional roofing company, don’t wait until the clouds roll in.

Need help with inspections or roof repair in Oklahoma? Call Legend Roofs at 405-352-7307. We proudly serve Ada, Moore, Noble, Norman, Oklahoma City, Seminole, Shawnee, and Tecumseh, OK. Let us help you stay storm-ready with expert roofing maintenance and service you can trust.