How to Prepare for Bad Weather: A St. Louis Roofer’s Guide to Staying Safe and Dry

So you’re sitting on your front porch, sipping some good ol’ iced tea, and you spot those menacing clouds rolling in. I’m talking about the kind of clouds that look like they’ve been bench-pressing and guzzling protein shakes. Now, what’s your first thought? Is it about the groceries you left in the trunk of your car, or do you think about the roof that’s supposed to keep your family safe and dry?

Here at Family First Exteriors, we think about roofs – all day, every day. (Yeah, we’re a fun bunch at parties.) But our obsession with shingles and gutters is your gain, because we’re here to share everything we know about protecting your home from that unruly St. Louis weather.

Your Roof: The Unsung Hero of Your Home

Have you ever stopped to think about your roof? Not just a casual glance, but a real, deep, thoughtful look? No? Well, we can’t blame you. Roofs don’t exactly scream excitement, do they?

But think about this: your roof is the one thing standing between Mother Nature’s fury and your family’s comfort. It’s like your home’s unsung hero, quietly bearing the brunt of the elements day after day, asking for nothing in return.

Kind of a superman, don’t you think?

Preparing for the Storm

Now that we’ve established that your roof is essentially the Clark Kent of your house, let’s talk about how to prepare it for the real trials – the storms. From our many years in the business, we’ve picked up a few tricks to help you keep your roof storm-ready:

Inspect Regularly: You wouldn’t go for years without a medical checkup, right? (If you just said, “Well, actually…” please, for the love of everything, make an appointment.) The same principle applies to your roof. Regular inspections can spot small issues before they become wallet-draining problems.
Clear Out Gutters: We get it, gutter cleaning isn’t the most glamorous job. But a clogged gutter can cause water to pool and damage your roof. So get those gloves on and get cleaning. Or better yet, hire us and we’ll do it for you!
Trim Nearby Trees: Overhanging branches can cause damage if they break off during a storm. Not to mention, they’re like a red carpet invitation for squirrels and other critters. Do yourself a favor and trim them back.
Consider Your Materials: The type of roofing material you use can make a big difference. Asphalt shingles, for example, are durable and affordable, while metal roofs can withstand even the most severe storms (and they make for a pretty cool drumming sound when the rain hits).

We’re not saying you need to become a roof expert overnight. But a little bit of knowledge goes a long way in preventing storm damage. And if you ever have questions or need a hand, we’re just a call away.

After the Storm

What happens after the storm is just as important. Do a walk-around inspection to check for any visible damages. If you notice leaks, missing shingles, or any other damage, it’s essential to get it repaired ASAP to prevent further issues. And remember, climbing up on a ladder after a storm isn’t the safest thing. When in doubt, call a professional.

Wrapping It Up

You know what they say about Missouri weather: If you don’t like it, wait five minutes.

We can’t change the weather, but we can help you protect your home from it. And remember, preparing for a storm doesn’t just mean stocking up on flashlights and canned beans – your roof needs some attention too.

So, the next time you see those dark clouds looming, we hope you’ll remember your home’s unsung hero and the role it plays in keeping you safe and dry. Stay safe, St. Louis, and remember, Family First Exteriors is always here for all your roofing needs.