Lowcountry Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
In coastal South Carolina, preparing your roof and property before the "cone of uncertainty" appears is the best way to minimize storm damage. Use this checklist to ensure your home is hardened and ready for hurricane season.
1. Professional Roof & Exterior Inspection
* Check for Loose Shingles: High winds can easily peel back shingles that are already lifted or have broken sealant strips.
* Inspect Flashing & Seals: Ensure metal flashing around chimneys, dormers, and valleys is secure. Check that caulking isn't cracked or dried out.
* Verify Pipe Boots: Sunlight degrades the rubber seals around plumbing vents. Replace any that show signs of "alligatoring" or cracking.
* Examine Soffits and Fascia: Ensure these are tightly fastened; if wind gets under the eave, it can create upward pressure that lifts the roof deck.
2. Property & Surroundings
* Trim Overhanging Limbs: Remove branches that hang over the roofline. In high winds, these act as "scourging" tools against shingles or can snap and puncture the roof.
* Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Heavy tropical rainfall needs a clear path away from your foundation. Ensure gutters are free of pine needles and debris to prevent "water damming."
* Secure Projectiles: Identify patio furniture, potted plants, and bird feeders that must be moved indoors or anchored if a warning is issued.
3. Structural Reinforcements
* Garage Door Bracing: The garage door is often the weakest point. If it fails, the sudden change in internal pressure can literally "blow the roof off" the house. Ensure yours is pressure-rated or install a bracing kit.
* Check Hurricane Clips/Straps: If your home was built before modern coastal codes, have a professional verify that your roof-to-wall connections (straps) are present and meet current wind-load standards.
4. Documentation & Insurance Prep
* Take "Before" Photos: Walk around your home and take timestamped photos of the roof, siding, and windows from all angles. This is your baseline for insurance.
* Review Your Policy: Confirm you have "Wind and Hail" coverage. Note your deductible—in South Carolina, hurricane deductibles are often a percentage of the home's value (e.g., 2% to 5%) rather than a flat dollar amount.
* Secure Important Papers: Place your insurance policy, home appraisal, and contractor contact info in a waterproof "go-bag."
5. Emergency Contact List
Keep these numbers saved in your phone and written down in your emergency kit:
* Primary Roofer: Bluffton Roof and Restoration (843)290-1250
* Insurance Agent/Claims Hotline
* Local Utility Companies (Power, Water, Gas)
* Emergency Tarping Service
