The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November, putting local businesses and their buildings at risk. Your roof is your first and most critical line of defense against high winds, torrential rain, and flying debris. A commercial roof that hasn't been properly prepared can fail fast when conditions get serious.

Thankfully, a little proactive planning goes a long way. Here's what you need to know to get your commercial roof ready before the next storm rolls in.

Why Commercial Roofs Are Especially Vulnerable

Most commercial buildings feature low-slope or flat roof systems (like TPO, EPDM, PVC, or BUR) that are more susceptible to ponding water, wind uplift, and membrane punctures than steeply pitched surfaces.

Wind uplift is one of the biggest culprits for storm damage. During a hurricane, strong winds create negative pressure that essentially tries to pull your roof off the building from the outside. If your membrane is already compromised (with even a small crack or lifted seam), that pressure can peel back large sections of roofing in minutes.

Combine that with debris impact, clogged drains causing water backup, and the sheer weight of sustained rainfall, and it's easy to see why unprepared commercial roofs are among the most common and expensive insurance claims after major storms.

Step 1: Schedule a Pre-Season Roof Inspection

Before hurricane season hits, you need a professional roof inspection to ensure there are no hazards for any storms to exploit. A proper pre-season inspection should cover:

• Membrane condition: Checking for blisters, cracks, shrinkage, or lifting seams
• Flashing integrity: Inspecting all penetrations, transitions, and perimeter edges where leaks commonly start
• Drainage systems: Ensuring drains, scuppers, and gutters are clear and functioning properly
• Fastener and adhesion checks: Confirming the roof system is properly secured to the substrate
• HVAC and rooftop equipment: Ensuring units and curbs are sealed
• Previous repair areas: Inspecting past patches ensures they are still holding up

An inspection gives you a clear picture of where your roof stands before the pressure is on. You can then address any issues before a storm turns a small problem into a catastrophic one.

Step 2: Complete Roof Repairs Before the Hurricane Season Starts

If your inspection uncovers any vulnerabilities, prioritize getting them fixed. This isn't the time to delay or budget-stretch repairs into next quarter. Minor issues that seem manageable in calm weather can become major structural failures under hurricane-force conditions. Common pre-season repairs to address include:

• Resealing lifted or open seams on TPO, EPDM, or PVC membranes
• Replacing damaged or corroded flashing around vents, skylights, and HVAC penetrations
• Clearing and repairing clogged or damaged roof drains and scuppers
• Patching any membrane punctures, holes, or worn spots
• Re-securing loose perimeter edge metal or fascia
• Reinforcing any previously repaired areas that show signs of re-failure

If you are due for a larger service (like re-roofing or replacement), an expert can help you discuss your options and their potential timelines.

Step 3: Clear Your Roof and Surrounding Areas

Walk your property and look for anything that wind could turn into a projectile. Debris impact is one of the most common causes of storm damage to commercial roofing membranes, and a lot of it comes from objects already on or near the building. Before a storm, check for:

• Rooftop equipment and accessories: Loose pipe supports, unsecured satellite dishes, or lightweight mechanical covers that can shift or fly
• Debris buildup: Leaves, dirt, and gravel that can clog drains during heavy rain
• Landscaping near the building: Dead trees, weak branches, and unsecured outdoor decor that could impact the roof or walls
• Construction materials: If you have any ongoing work, all materials and leftover tools should be secured or removed entirely

As a storm rolls in, it may be too late to schedule roofing repairs, so securing loose items is one of the best steps you can take to prevent or reduce damage.

Step 4: Know Your Roof System's Wind Rating

Every commercial roof system is designed to withstand a certain wind load, and understanding your roof's rating helps you make smarter decisions about upgrades and coverage. Roofing systems installed to FM Global or ANSI/SPRI standards, for example, are tested and rated for specific wind speeds.

If your building is older or your roof system was installed before updated wind codes took effect in your region, it may not meet current standards. This is worth a conversation with your roofing contractor, especially if you're in a high-wind zone or planning a re-roofing project in the near future.

Step 5: Review Your Insurance Policy and Documentation

Before hurricane season, spend some time reviewing your commercial property insurance policy:

• Confirm your coverage limits reflect the current replacement cost of your roof, ensuring you won't be left paying the difference if you need care.
• Understand your deductible structure. For example, many policies have separate, higher deductibles for named storms. Knowing your coverage can help you set your expectations and budget accordingly.
• Document your roof's current condition. This should be covered by your inspection reports, so ensure your inspection history is up-to-date, includes pictures, and is readily available if you need it. 
• Keep your roofing contractor's contact information accessible so you can quickly arrange emergency repairs if damage occurs. For those in central NC, you can contact Applied Roofing Solutions at (336) 394-4607. 

A little preparation can speed up the claims process, protect you from disputes over pre-existing damage, and alleviate stress in an already stressful situation.

Step 6: Have a Post-Storm Response Plan

Even well-maintained roofs can sustain damage in a severe storm. Having a plan in place before it happens means you can act quickly to minimize secondary damage, especially water intrusion, which can spread fast and compromise insulation, ceilings, and interior finishes. After a storm passes:

• Contact your roofing contractor to arrange a professional post-storm inspection.
• Conduct a visual inspection as soon as it's safe to do so. Look for visible membrane damage, standing water, or displaced materials.
• Document everything with photos before any cleanup or temporary repairs.
• Apply temporary protective measures (like tarps or emergency sealants) as short-term solutions until your roofing contractor arrives.

Contact Applied Roofing Solutions: Hurricane Roofing Care for Businesses

Don't wait until a hurricane watch is issued to start thinking about your roof. By then, roofing contractors are booked solid, materials are in short supply, and there's simply no time to address anything beyond basic preparation.

The best time to act is before the season gets underway. A pre-season inspection, timely repairs, and a solid response plan can mean the difference between weathering the storm with minor damage and facing tens of thousands of dollars in emergency repairs.

Applied Roofing Solutions has been helping businesses throughout North Carolina prepare for hurricane season since 2011. Contact us to get a pre-season inspection, schedule roofing repairs, discuss a full roof overlay, or get on a preventative maintenance plan to get started today!

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