Living in Florida’s capital city means staying prepared—especially when hurricane season rolls in. As residents of Tallahassee know, summer storms can hit hard and fast. With a history rooted in American territory expansion and as the home of Florida State University, the city blends rich culture and higher education with frequent bouts of rain and wind.
That’s why protecting your roof before a storm hits isn’t just smart—it’s essential for your family’s safety and your home’s longevity.
As a longstanding roofing contractor serving Leon County since 1980, Tadlock Roofing helps homeowners take proactive steps to hurricane-proof their homes.
Here’s what to do first—no matter where you live in Tallahassee, from Old Town to the southeast neighborhoods near the state university system.
Key Takeaways
- A roof inspection before summer storms helps find early damage like loose shingles or poor drainage issues.
- Roof protection improves when damaged shingles are replaced and hurricane straps are installed for wind resistance.
- Safety increases when gutters are cleared, trees are trimmed, and roof-mounted parts are sealed against storms.
- Home protection lasts all season with sealed doors, tight windows, and regular roof maintenance from trusted experts.
Schedule a Roof Inspection Before the Storm Season
To start, knowing how to hurricane-proof a roof begins with a professional inspection. Schedule yours in spring or early summer—well before storms peak in July or August. In this part of Florida, storms don’t just bring rain; they bring stress, wind-driven debris, and potential structural damage.
A roof inspection can uncover issues like loose shingles, worn-out flashing, or improperly installed gutters before they become major repairs.
Tadlock Roofing conducts every inspection with the care and attention Tallahassee homeowners expect—especially in historic areas once patrolled by Union forces and now home to institutions of higher learning like Florida A&M, local colleges, and trade institutes.
Replace Loose Shingles and Repair Vulnerable Areas
It’s easy to dismiss a little TLC on your roof, but even a few deteriorating shingles can lead to significant damage.
Once a storm hits, they can tear off, exposing your decking to wind, rain, and water intrusion. We recommend walking the perimeter of your home after heavy rains to check for signs of shingle damage or granules in your gutters.
The sooner you replace the shingles, the better you protect the roof deck, rafters, and attic insulation.
Install Hurricane Straps for Maximum Wind Protection
Hurricane straps are a must-have in Tallahassee, especially in homes built before modern building codes were enforced statewide. These metal connectors help tie your roof rafters to your home’s walls, preventing uplift during strong wind events.
It’s a common upgrade in both residential neighborhoods and older university town properties where roof anchoring systems weren’t always required.
Clear Gutters and Secure Downspouts in the Spring
Blocked gutters are a frequent issue by March and April, as fallen leaves and seasonal pollen collect quickly. Properly installed and maintained gutters ensure rainwater flows away from your home during heavy downpours.
If left unchecked, clogged gutters can cause water to back up under the shingles and damage windows, doors, and even fascia or soffits.
Our team also reinforces the roof’s drainage systems in areas like South Tallahassee and the east side of town, where dense tree cover can intensify runoff issues.
Trim Trees and Remove Overhanging Limbs
In a city defined by towering oaks and pine trees—many of which date back to West Florida Seminary days—overhanging branches can pose a serious risk.
When high winds strike, tree limbs often fall on rooftops, destroying shingles, rafters, and even entire roof sections. We recommend trimming branches in late spring or early summer and removing any dead trees from your property before hurricane season begins.
Whether you’re located near the Tallahassee Museum or further west near downtown, proper tree maintenance helps secure your home from storm damage.
Reinforce Skylights, Vents, and Roof-Mounted Equipment
If you have skylights, ridge vents, solar panels, or other accessories on your roof, now is the time to ensure they’re properly sealed and secured. Tallahassee homes—especially those in neighborhoods with a mix of school staff and higher education professionals—often include upgraded roof features.
Unfortunately, if these aren’t installed correctly, they can be torn off or leak during a hurricane.
At Tadlock Roofing, we inspect each component thoroughly to make sure your entire roofing system is covered against storm-force wind and water.
Check Windows and Doors for Air and Water Seepage
While not part of your roof, windows and doors play a vital role in keeping your home sealed. When the wind howls through gaps or weak points, internal pressure can build—and that’s a leading cause of roof lift-off.
Ensure every window and door is properly caulked, weather-stripped, and reinforced if necessary. These small investments can save big money when the next storm makes landfall.
Join a Maintenance Program for Peace of Mind Year-Round
One of the smartest investments you can make as a homeowner in Florida is enrolling in a professional roof maintenance plan.
Our Roof Preventative Maintenance (RPM) program is tailored for the weather conditions unique to north and west Florida. It includes scheduled inspections, storm prep, and post-storm checkups to catch problems before they require costly roof repairs.
Whether you’re hosting college friends in the summer, enjoying a Saturday walk through Cascades Park, or preparing for a new school year, the RPM plan makes sure your roof is never an afterthought.
Get Your Roof Storm-Ready Before the Hurricane Season Hits
From university staff to government employees, every homeowner in Tallahassee shares one thing in common: a need to protect their home during hurricane season.
At Tadlock Roofing, we’re proud to serve this vibrant capital city with award-winning services, trustworthy repairs, and community-driven care.
If your roof hasn’t been inspected this year—or if you’ve noticed signs it might need a little TLC—contact Tadlock Roofing today. We’re here to help you stay secure, covered, and protected through every season.
Call (855) 964-7663 for your free estimate before the next storm heads our way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What roofing materials are best for hurricane protection in Florida?
Architectural shingles, standing seam metal, and tile systems rated for high wind zones perform best. Tadlock Roofing installs storm-rated materials at any Florida location, including Pensacola, Tallahassee, and surrounding communities.
Does Tadlock Roofing offer emergency tarping after storm damage?
Yes. We provide emergency tarping services to prevent additional water damage. This protects your roof until a permanent job can be completed, especially during peak hurricane activity in June and July.
Can Tadlock Roofing help with my storm damage insurance claim?
Yes. We support homeowners by providing inspections, documentation, and estimates for insurance claims, making the claims process easier and helping you get the repairs your roof needs.
Is attic insulation important for hurricane-season roof performance?
Yes. Proper attic insulation improves airflow and moisture control, which helps protect your roof structure. We include attic evaluations in storm-readiness services to strengthen roof systems before storm season.
