Hurricane Roof Preparation: Complete 2026 Guide to Storm-Resistant Roofing for Myrtle Beach
Shocking Industry Truth
Living on the South Carolina coast means hurricane preparation isn't optional—it's essential. With Myrtle Beach experiencing 15 named storms within 75 miles since 2000 and hurricane season running from June through November, your roof is your home's first line of defense against catastrophic damage.
After 18+ years protecting Grand Strand homes through storms like Hurricane Florence (2018), Dorian (2019), and Isaias (2020), I've seen firsthand what separates roofs that survive hurricanes from those that fail. The difference comes down to three factors: proper materials, professional installation, and proactive preparation.
This comprehensive guide covers everything Myrtle Beach homeowners need to know about hurricane roof preparation: the best roofing materials for hurricane zones, pre-storm inspection checklists, understanding wind ratings, strengthening vulnerable areas, and what to do before, during, and after a hurricane.
Whether you're preparing for your first hurricane season or want to ensure your roof can withstand the next major storm, this guide provides actionable steps to protect your most valuable investment.
Ready to Protect Your Investment?
Schedule your free roof inspection today. No obligations, just peace of mind.
Understanding Myrtle Beach Hurricane Risk: Why Roof Preparation Matters
Before diving into preparation strategies, it's crucial to understand the specific hurricane threats facing Myrtle Beach. Our location on the South Carolina coast places us in one of the most hurricane-prone regions in the United States.
Myrtle Beach Hurricane History
While the Grand Strand hasn't experienced a direct Category 4 or 5 hit in recent decades, we regularly face tropical storms and hurricanes that cause significant roof damage:
Recent Storms Affecting Horry County:
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2018:
Hurricane Florence - Made landfall 90 miles south as Category 1. Caused significant wind damage and flooding in Myrtle Beach with sustained winds of 60-75 mph.
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2019:
Hurricane Dorian - Category 1 passed offshore. Tropical storm force winds caused widespread shingle and soffit damage across the Grand Strand.
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2020:
Hurricane Isaias - Made landfall near Ocean Isle Beach as Category 1. Caused significant roof damage in North Myrtle Beach and Little River.
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2024:
Tropical Storm Debby - Brought heavy rain and tropical storm winds, causing localized roof damage and flooding.
Why Roofs Fail During Hurricanes
Understanding how hurricanes damage roofs helps you prepare more effectively. Roof failures during hurricanes typically occur through these mechanisms:
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1.
Wind Uplift: High winds create negative pressure above the roof, literally trying to "suck" the roof off your home. Improperly secured roofing materials lift and peel away.
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2.
Edge Failures: Roof edges (eaves and rakes) are most vulnerable. Once wind gets under the edge, it can progressively peel back the entire roof covering.
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3.
Flying Debris: Trees, branches, patio furniture, and building materials become projectiles. Impact damage allows water intrusion.
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4.
Structural Separation: Without proper hurricane straps, the entire roof structure can separate from the walls, leading to catastrophic failure.
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5.
Wind-Driven Rain: Even minor gaps allow water intrusion under hurricane conditions. Horizontal rain can penetrate through vents, penetrations, and damaged areas.
Key Statistic:
According to FEMA and IBHS research, over 90% of all hurricane-related home damage starts at the roof. Once the roof envelope is compromised, water damage to ceilings, walls, insulation, and belongings follows rapidly—often within minutes.
Best Roofing Materials for Hurricane Zones: Complete Comparison
Choosing the right roofing material is the foundation of hurricane preparedness. Not all roofing materials perform equally in high winds. Here's a comprehensive comparison based on wind resistance, impact resistance, and coastal durability.
Standing Seam Metal Roofing: Best Overall Hurricane Protection
Standing Seam Metal Roofing Specifications:
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Wind Rating:
140-180 mph - Highest available wind resistance. Can withstand Category 5 hurricanes when properly installed.
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Impact Resistance:
Class 4 (UL 2218) - Highest impact rating. Resists hail up to 2 inches and flying debris.
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Coastal Performance:
Excellent - Galvalume and aluminum options resist salt corrosion. 50+ year lifespan in coastal environments.
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Insurance Benefits:
15-35% premium reduction - Many insurers offer significant discounts for metal roofing.
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FORTIFIED Eligible:
Yes - Qualifies for FORTIFIED certification with proper installation.
Why Standing Seam Excels: Unlike exposed fastener metal panels, standing seam panels interlock without exposed fasteners. This hidden fastener system eliminates the primary failure point in metal roofing—fastener pullout and water intrusion at screw holes.
Impact-Resistant Asphalt Shingles: Best Balance of Protection and Value
Class 4 Impact-Resistant Shingle Specifications:
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Wind Rating:
110-130 mph - Premium options like GAF Timberline HDZ and ArmorShield II achieve 130 mph with proper installation.
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Impact Resistance:
Class 4 (UL 2218) - SBS polymer modification provides rubber-like flexibility that absorbs impacts.
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Coastal Performance:
Good - 25-year algae warranties protect against coastal humidity. 25-30 year lifespan with proper maintenance.
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Insurance Benefits:
5-15% premium reduction - Class 4 rating and high wind rating combine for coastal discounts.
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FORTIFIED Eligible:
Yes - Many impact-resistant shingles meet FORTIFIED requirements.
Recommended Products: GAF Timberline ArmorShield II (Class 4, 130 mph), GAF Timberline HDZ (Class 3, 130 mph), Owens Corning Duration FLEX (Class 4, 130 mph), and CertainTeed Landmark IR (Class 4, 130 mph).
Concrete and Clay Tile: Excellent Weight-Based Protection
Concrete/Clay Tile Specifications:
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Wind Rating:
110-150 mph - Weight provides inherent wind resistance. Proper tie-down systems essential for hurricane zones.
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Impact Resistance:
Moderate to High - Concrete tiles are very durable; clay tiles can crack under heavy debris impact.
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Coastal Performance:
Excellent - Non-corrosive, UV resistant. 50-100 year lifespan with proper installation.
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Considerations:
Requires reinforced roof structure due to weight (900-1,500 lbs per 100 sq ft). Higher initial cost but exceptional longevity.
Roofing Materials Comparison Table
| Material | Wind Rating | Impact Rating | Lifespan | Hurricane Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standing Seam Metal | 140-180 mph | Class 4 | 50-70 years | Excellent |
| Impact-Resistant Shingles | 110-130 mph | Class 3-4 | 25-30 years | Very Good |
| Concrete Tile | 110-150 mph | High | 50-100 years | Excellent |
| Standard 3-Tab Shingles | 60-70 mph | Class 1 | 15-20 years | Poor |
| Standard Architectural Shingles | 90-110 mph | Class 2-3 | 20-25 years | Moderate |
Warning About 3-Tab Shingles:
If your home still has 3-tab shingles (flat, single-layer appearance), your roof is significantly under-protected for Myrtle Beach's hurricane risk. 3-tab shingles typically fail in Category 1 conditions and should be replaced before hurricane season with impact-resistant or metal roofing.
Understanding Wind Ratings: What the Numbers Mean for Your Roof
Roofing manufacturers advertise wind ratings, but what do these numbers actually mean? Understanding wind ratings helps you choose appropriate materials and assess your current roof's hurricane readiness.
How Wind Ratings Are Tested
Wind ratings for roofing materials come from standardized testing protocols:
Key Testing Standards:
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ASTM D3161:
Standard Test for Wind-Resistance - Shingles are subjected to sustained 60 mph or 110 mph winds for 2 hours. Class F = 110 mph, Class G = 120 mph, Class H = 150 mph.
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ASTM D7158:
Sealed Shingle Wind Resistance - Tests sealant strip bond strength. Class D = 90 mph, Class G = 120 mph, Class H = 150 mph.
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UL 580:
Uplift Resistance of Roof Assemblies - Tests entire roof system (not just shingles) against simulated wind uplift pressure.
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FM 4470/4474:
Factory Mutual Testing - Rigorous testing for commercial/industrial roofing including wind, impact, fire, and weathering.
Hurricane Category Wind Speeds vs. Roof Ratings
Understanding how hurricane categories relate to roof performance helps you assess your protection level:
| Hurricane Category | Sustained Winds | Gusts (20-30% higher) | Minimum Roof Rating Needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tropical Storm | 39-73 mph | 50-95 mph | 90+ mph |
| Category 1 | 74-95 mph | 90-125 mph | 110+ mph |
| Category 2 | 96-110 mph | 115-145 mph | 130+ mph |
| Category 3 | 111-129 mph | 130-165 mph | 150+ mph |
| Category 4 | 130-156 mph | 155-200 mph | 170+ mph |
| Category 5 | 157+ mph | 190+ mph | 180+ mph |
Critical Insight: Gusts vs. Sustained Winds
Hurricane category ratings use sustained wind speeds, but roof damage typically occurs during gusts, which can be 20-30% higher. A "Category 1" hurricane with 90 mph sustained winds can produce 115+ mph gusts—requiring a roof rated for at least 130 mph for reliable protection.
Why Installation Matters More Than Ratings
A roof's labeled wind rating is only achieved with proper installation. Common installation failures that reduce effective wind resistance:
Installation Errors That Compromise Wind Ratings:
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1.
Incorrect Nail Placement: Nails placed too high miss the nail line, reducing holding power by 50% or more.
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2.
Too Few Nails: High-wind zones require 6 nails per shingle. Using 4 nails (standard) reduces wind resistance significantly.
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3.
Overdriven Nails: Pneumatic nailers set too high drive nails through the mat, providing zero holding power.
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4.
Missing Starter Strip: Without proper starter strip, the first row of shingles can peel off, starting a progressive failure.
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5.
Unsealed Tabs: Shingles that haven't fully sealed (due to cold installation or manufacturing defects) can lift and blow off.
This is why certified contractor installation is critical for hurricane zones. GAF Master Elite and similar certifications require documented training in high-wind installation protocols.
Hurricane Straps and Roof-to-Wall Connections: Your Hidden Defense
Even the best roofing materials fail if the entire roof structure separates from your walls. Hurricane straps (also called hurricane clips or tie-downs) are metal connectors that anchor your roof framing to the wall structure, creating a continuous load path from foundation to roof.
What Are Hurricane Straps?
Hurricane straps are galvanized steel connectors installed where roof rafters or trusses meet the top plate of exterior walls. They prevent the roof from lifting off during high winds by transferring uplift forces into the wall framing and ultimately to the foundation.
Types of Hurricane Connectors:
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Hurricane Clips:
L-shaped connectors that wrap from the rafter/truss to the top plate. Entry-level protection, suitable for lower wind zones.
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Hurricane Straps:
Longer straps that wrap over the top of rafters/trusses and fasten on both sides. Stronger than clips, recommended for coastal areas.
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Heavy-Duty Straps:
Engineered connectors rated for extreme uplift. Required for FORTIFIED Gold certification and homes in highest wind zones.
Checking Your Home for Hurricane Straps
You can check for hurricane straps yourself by accessing your attic:
DIY Attic Inspection:
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1.
Access your attic with a flashlight.
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2.
Look where the roof rafters or trusses meet the exterior walls.
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3.
Check for metal straps or clips connecting the wood members.
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4.
Count visible connectors and note any missing connections.
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5.
Look for rust, loose nails, or damaged connectors.
When Hurricane Straps Are Required
Building codes have evolved significantly. Here's what's required and recommended:
| Home Age | Likely Status | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Before 1994 | Unlikely to have hurricane straps | Retrofit strongly recommended |
| 1994-2002 | May have basic clips | Inspection and upgrade recommended |
| 2003-2012 | Likely has hurricane straps per code | Verify proper installation |
| After 2012 | Should have modern straps per IRC | Verify and document for insurance |
Retrofitting Hurricane Straps
If your home lacks hurricane straps, retrofit installation is possible and highly recommended. The process typically involves:
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1.
Attic access and inspection by licensed contractor
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2.
Selection of appropriate connector type based on framing
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3.
Installation at every rafter or truss location
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4.
Documentation for insurance wind mitigation credit
Insurance and Grant Benefits:
-
Insurance:
Hurricane strap documentation typically qualifies for wind mitigation credits of 10-30% on your homeowner's insurance.
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SC Safe Home:
The SC Safe Home grant program can help fund hurricane strap retrofits as part of a FORTIFIED certification project.
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FORTIFIED:
Hurricane straps are required for FORTIFIED Bronze (roof) certification, which provides the largest insurance discounts.
Pre-Hurricane Roof Inspection Checklist: What to Check Before Storm Season
A thorough pre-hurricane inspection gives you time to address vulnerabilities before a storm threatens. Here's a comprehensive checklist covering every area of concern.
When to Conduct Pre-Hurricane Inspections
For Myrtle Beach homeowners, we recommend these inspection timing guidelines:
Recommended Inspection Schedule:
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May 1st:
Annual Pre-Season Inspection - Complete professional inspection before June 1st (hurricane season start). Allows time for repairs.
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72 Hours Before Storm:
Storm Preparation Check - Quick visual inspection and securing loose items when a storm enters the forecast.
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After Each Storm:
Post-Storm Assessment - Document any damage immediately for insurance purposes.
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December 1st:
Post-Season Review - Assess cumulative season damage after hurricane season ends November 30th.
Complete Pre-Hurricane Inspection Checklist
Use this comprehensive checklist to assess your roof's hurricane readiness. Items marked with (*) require professional inspection for accurate assessment.
Exterior Roof Inspection:
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[ ]
Shingles lying flat with no curling, cupping, or lifting
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[ ]
No missing, cracked, or damaged shingles
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[ ]
All shingle tabs sealed down properly
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[ ]
Adequate granule coverage (no bare spots or excessive granule loss)
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[ ]
Ridge cap shingles secure and intact
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[ ]
Hip shingles secure and properly overlapped
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[ ]
Starter strip visible and intact at eaves and rakes
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[ ]
Metal drip edge secure at all roof edges*
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[ ]
No exposed nails or nail pops
Flashing and Penetrations:
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[ ]
All pipe boots/vent flashings sealed and flexible
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[ ]
Chimney flashing secure with no gaps or rust
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[ ]
Wall flashing (step and counter) intact
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[ ]
Skylight flashing sealed with no cracks
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[ ]
Valley flashing secure and debris-free
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[ ]
All caulk/sealant flexible and intact (not dried/cracked)
Gutters and Drainage:
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[ ]
Gutters securely attached with no loose sections
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[ ]
Gutters clean and free of debris
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[ ]
Downspouts secure and directing water away from foundation
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[ ]
Gutter screens/guards secure (if installed)
Soffit and Fascia:
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[ ]
All soffit panels secure with no loose sections
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[ ]
No holes, cracks, or gaps in soffit
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[ ]
Fascia boards intact with no rot or damage
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[ ]
All vent screens in place and undamaged
Attic Inspection:
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[ ]
No signs of previous leaks (water stains on wood or insulation)
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[ ]
No daylight visible through roof deck
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[ ]
Hurricane straps present and properly installed*
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[ ]
Adequate ventilation (soffit vents and ridge/roof vents clear)
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[ ]
No mold or moisture issues
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[ ]
Insulation dry and properly distributed
Professional Inspection Recommended For:
- • Roofs over 10 years old
- • Any roof that has experienced previous storm damage
- • Homes purchased within the last year (baseline assessment)
- • Roofs with complex geometry (multiple valleys, dormers, etc.)
- • Flat or low-slope roofing systems
- • Before filing wind mitigation for insurance discounts
Most Vulnerable Roof Areas During Hurricanes: Where Damage Starts
Hurricane damage follows predictable patterns. Understanding where roofs typically fail helps you prioritize inspection and reinforcement efforts. These vulnerable areas deserve extra attention.
1. Roof Edges (Eaves and Rakes)
Why Edges Fail:
Roof edges experience the highest wind uplift pressures. IBHS research shows edge zones can experience 2-3 times the wind pressure of the field of the roof. Once wind gets under the edge, progressive peeling occurs.
Prevention:
- • Ensure proper metal drip edge installation at all eaves and rakes
- • Starter strip must extend slightly over edge for wind seal
- • Edge shingles should have enhanced nail pattern (6 nails vs 4)
- • Check for lifted or unsealed edge shingles before storms
2. Ridge and Hip Lines
Ridge caps sit at the highest point of your roof, exposed to full wind force from any direction. Hip lines are similarly exposed. Ridge and hip caps are often the first shingles blown off, creating a breach in the roof envelope.
Ridge/Hip Protection:
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1.
Use manufacturer-matched ridge cap shingles (not cut 3-tab)
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2.
Proper nail placement in designated zone
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3.
Apply roofing cement to seal high-wind areas
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4.
Consider high-profile ridge caps for better aesthetics and protection
3. Roof Penetrations
Every hole in your roof—pipes, vents, chimneys, skylights—is a potential water entry point during a hurricane. Wind-driven rain can force water through gaps that would never leak under normal conditions.
Common Penetration Failures:
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Pipe Boots:
Rubber collars deteriorate in UV/salt air. Cracked boots allow water entry. Replace every 10-15 years or when cracking appears.
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Exhaust Vents:
Plastic or aluminum vent covers can blow off in high winds. Consider hurricane-rated vents with secondary water barriers.
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Skylights:
Older skylights have single-pane glass and aging seals. Impact-resistant skylights or temporary covers recommended.
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Chimneys:
Metal counter flashing can lift, and mortar cap cracks allow water entry. Inspect and seal before hurricane season.
4. Soffit and Fascia
Soffit panels are extremely vulnerable to wind pressure changes. Once soffit fails, wind enters the attic space and can create internal pressure that blows the roof off from the inside.
Critical Warning:
Soffit failure is one of the most common—and most dangerous—hurricane damage patterns. Wind entering through failed soffit can double the uplift pressure on your roof from below, causing catastrophic roof loss even in moderate hurricanes.
5. Valleys
Roof valleys concentrate water flow and are common leak points. During hurricanes, debris accumulates in valleys and can dam water or puncture roofing materials. Valley flashing must be secure and properly integrated with surrounding shingles.
6. Wall-to-Roof Intersections
Where roofs meet vertical walls (dormers, second stories, additions), step flashing and kickout flashing prevent water intrusion. Failed flashing at these locations causes extensive hidden water damage.
Emergency Roof Tarping: How to Protect Your Home After Storm Damage
When your roof is damaged during a hurricane, rapid temporary protection prevents catastrophic secondary water damage. Understanding emergency tarping—whether you do it yourself or hire professionals—helps protect your home and insurance claim.
When Emergency Tarping Is Needed
Install emergency tarping immediately if you observe:
Tarp Immediately If:
- • Missing shingles exposing underlayment or deck
- • Visible holes or punctures in roof surface
- • Missing ridge cap sections
- • Tree or debris impact damage
- • Active water leaking into living space
- • Flashing torn away from roof penetrations
- • Lifted shingle sections (even if still attached)
DIY Emergency Tarping Procedure
Safety First: Only attempt roof access when conditions are safe—no active rain, lightning, or high winds. Falls from roofs cause serious injuries and deaths each year. When in doubt, call a professional.
Materials Needed:
- • Heavy-duty tarp (minimum 10 mil, silver/gray UV resistant)
- • 2x4 lumber boards (at least 4 pieces, 8 feet long)
- • Concrete screws (3" or longer)
- • Drill with masonry bit
- • Ladder (properly rated for your weight + materials)
- • Work gloves and non-slip shoes
- • Helper on the ground (never work alone)
Step-by-Step Tarping Process:
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1.
Size the tarp: Tarp should extend at least 4 feet past damage in all directions. Extend over ridge if possible for best water shedding.
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2.
Position the tarp: Unroll tarp over damaged area, ensuring complete coverage. Extend over ridge line when possible.
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3.
Secure the top edge: Wrap tarp edge around 2x4 board and screw through board into roof deck (not just shingles). Use screws every 12-18 inches.
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4.
Secure sides and bottom: Use additional 2x4 boards to weigh down and secure tarp edges. Anchor to fascia or wrap around edge.
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5.
Eliminate pooling: Ensure tarp is taut with slope toward edges so water drains off, not pools on top.
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6.
Document everything: Take photos of damage before tarping and photos of completed tarp for insurance.
Professional Emergency Tarping Services
After major storms, demand for tarping services spikes dramatically. Knowing your options helps you act quickly:
WeatherShield Emergency Tarping:
- • Available during and after storm events
- • Professional-grade materials and installation
- • Proper documentation for insurance claims
- • Priority scheduling for existing customers
- • Tarping cost often covered by insurance
Emergency line: (843) 877-5539
Insurance Tip:
Homeowner's insurance typically covers emergency tarping as "loss mitigation" expense. Keep all receipts for materials or professional services. Document the damage before tarping with photos and video. Notify your insurance company within 24 hours of damage discovery.
Post-Hurricane Roof Inspection: What to Look for After the Storm
After a hurricane passes, proper inspection and documentation protect your home and support your insurance claim. Here's how to assess damage safely and effectively.
Safety First: When to Inspect
Wait Until:
- • Official "all clear" has been issued
- • Winds have dropped below 20 mph sustained
- • No active lightning in the area
- • Daylight hours only
- • Power lines are confirmed safe or de-energized
- • Flood waters have receded from property
Ground-Level Inspection First
Begin with a thorough ground-level inspection before attempting roof access. Many issues are visible from the ground:
Ground-Level Checklist:
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[ ]
Walk perimeter looking for fallen shingles, flashing, or debris
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[ ]
Check gutters and downspouts for damage or detachment
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[ ]
Look for missing or damaged soffit panels
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[ ]
Inspect fascia for damage or detachment
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[ ]
Use binoculars to scan roof surface for missing shingles
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[ ]
Note any visible debris on roof that may have caused damage
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[ ]
Check for trees or branches leaning on or impacting roof
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[ ]
Look for sagging or irregularities in roof line
Interior Inspection
Check inside your home for signs of water intrusion, which may indicate roof damage not visible from outside:
Interior Damage Signs:
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[ ]
Water stains on ceilings or walls (especially upper floors)
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[ ]
Peeling or bubbling paint
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[ ]
Wet insulation or drywall
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[ ]
Musty or moldy odor
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[ ]
Attic inspection: daylight visible, wet insulation, water stains on decking
Documenting Damage for Insurance
Thorough documentation is critical for successful insurance claims:
Documentation Best Practices:
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1.
Photograph everything: Wide shots showing extent, close-ups showing detail. Include reference objects for scale.
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2.
Video walkthrough: Record a narrated video describing damage as you walk the property.
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3.
Date/time stamp: Ensure camera date settings are correct or note date in your records.
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4.
Written inventory: Create detailed list of all damage observed.
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5.
Save debris: Keep fallen shingles, flashing, or other materials as evidence.
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6.
Get professional inspection: Request written inspection report from licensed contractor.
Filing Your Insurance Claim
Claim Filing Timeline:
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Within 24 hours:
Notify insurance company of potential claim. Don't wait for full damage assessment.
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Within 48 hours:
Complete emergency tarping and document all damage with photos/video.
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Within 1 week:
Obtain written inspection and estimate from licensed roofing contractor.
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Adjuster visit:
Have your contractor present during insurance adjuster inspection if possible.
FORTIFIED Roof Certification: The Gold Standard for Hurricane Protection
If you're serious about hurricane protection—and reducing insurance costs—FORTIFIED certification represents the highest standard for residential roofing. Developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS), FORTIFIED sets science-based requirements that exceed building codes.
What Makes a Roof FORTIFIED?
FORTIFIED Roof designation requires specific installation methods that address the most common failure points:
FORTIFIED Roof Requirements:
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Sealed Roof Deck:
Secondary water barrier (self-adhering membrane or enhanced underlayment) covers entire roof deck.
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Enhanced Edge Protection:
Metal drip edge with specific fastening pattern (4" spacing) and sealed laps at all roof edges.
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High-Wind Nailing:
Six nails per shingle minimum with specific placement pattern for maximum wind resistance.
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Roof-to-Wall Connection:
Hurricane straps connecting rafters/trusses to wall framing at every connection point.
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Code-Plus Flashing:
Enhanced flashing requirements at all penetrations and wall intersections.
FORTIFIED Certification Levels
| Level | Protection | Insurance Discount |
|---|---|---|
| FORTIFIED Roof (Bronze) | Roof system protection | 20-35% of wind premium |
| FORTIFIED Silver | Roof + opening protection | 35-45% of wind premium |
| FORTIFIED Gold | Entire structure protection | 45-55% of wind premium |
SC Safe Home Grant Program
South Carolina's SC Safe Home program provides grants to help coastal homeowners afford FORTIFIED upgrades:
SC Safe Home Benefits:
- • Matching grants (50/50) for FORTIFIED upgrades
- • Horry County residents are eligible
- • Program has provided $39+ million to 7,992+ homeowners
- • Recipients report average 24% annual insurance savings
- • Can be combined with insurance company FORTIFIED discounts
Visit scsafehome.com or contact WeatherShield for program guidance.
FORTIFIED ROI for Myrtle Beach Homeowners
With coastal insurance premiums averaging $4,000-6,000 annually in Horry County, FORTIFIED certification delivers significant returns:
Sample FORTIFIED Roof ROI:
- • FORTIFIED upgrade cost above standard: ~$3,000-4,500
- • Annual insurance savings (25% of $5,000 premium): $1,250
- • Payback period: 2.4-3.6 years
- • 15-year net savings: $14,250-$16,750
- • Plus: Superior protection + ~7% home resale value increase
Your Hurricane Roof Preparation Action Plan
Protecting your Myrtle Beach home from hurricane damage requires proactive planning. Here's your step-by-step action plan based on when you're reading this guide.
If Hurricane Season Is Approaching (April-May)
Pre-Season Action Checklist:
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1.
Schedule professional inspection - Have your roof assessed by a licensed contractor before June 1st.
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2.
Address identified issues - Complete repairs, replacements, or upgrades before storm season.
-
3.
Evaluate upgrade options - Consider impact-resistant shingles, metal roofing, or FORTIFIED certification.
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4.
Check hurricane straps - Verify presence and proper installation in attic.
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5.
Gather emergency supplies - Purchase tarps, 2x4s, screws, and other materials before demand spikes.
-
6.
Review insurance coverage - Confirm adequate coverage and understand deductible.
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7.
Document current condition - Photograph roof before storm season for insurance baseline.
If a Storm Is in the Forecast (72-24 Hours)
Storm Preparation Checklist:
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1.
Quick visual inspection - Look for any loose or damaged materials.
-
2.
Clear gutters and drains - Ensure water can flow freely during heavy rain.
-
3.
Secure loose items - Remove or tie down anything that could become airborne.
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4.
Trim threatening branches - Cut any branches that could fall on roof (if time permits safely).
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5.
Locate emergency supplies - Have tarps, boards, and tools accessible.
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6.
Save contractor number - Have WeatherShield's number ready: (843) 877-5539
If You Need a New Roof
If your roof is due for replacement, now is the time to maximize hurricane protection:
New Roof Upgrade Priorities:
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1.
Choose hurricane-rated materials - Metal (140+ mph) or impact-resistant shingles (130 mph).
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2.
Require high-wind installation - 6-nail pattern, proper drip edge, sealed underlayment.
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3.
Install/upgrade hurricane straps - Modern connectors at every rafter/truss.
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4.
Consider FORTIFIED certification - Incremental cost pays back through insurance savings.
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5.
Apply for SC Safe Home grant - May cover portion of FORTIFIED upgrade.
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6.
Update insurance policy - Get wind mitigation inspection for maximum discounts.
Get Your Free Hurricane Readiness Assessment
Don't wait for the next storm. Find out if your roof is hurricane-ready today.
WeatherShield Roofing - 5.0-star Google rating (73 reviews)
GAF Master Elite Certified - 18+ Years Coastal Experience
The Cost Comparison: Maintenance vs. Neglect
Without Maintenance
- Roof lifespan: 12-15 years
- Insurance claims often denied
- Emergency repairs cost 3x more
- Property value decreases by 5-10%
- Warranty becomes void
- Total 20-year cost: $35,000+
With Regular Maintenance
- Roof lifespan: 25-30+ years
- Insurance claims approved
- Prevent costly emergencies
- Property value protected
- Full warranty coverage maintained
- Total 20-year cost: $8,000-10,000
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
Every day you delay costs you money. Get your FREE professional roof inspection today and discover exactly what condition your roof is in.
Emergency? Call our 24/7 hotline: (843) 877-5539
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
David Karimi
Owner & Hurricane Roofing Specialist
David Karimi is the owner of WeatherShield Roofing with over 18 years of experience protecting coastal South Carolina homes from hurricanes. As a GAF Master Elite certified contractor serving the Myrtle Beach area since 2006, David has helped hundreds of homeowners prepare their roofs for hurricane season and repair storm damage after major storms including Hurricane Florence, Dorian, and Isaias.
The Bottom Line: Your Roof, Your Choice
Every day you wait is another day closer to that emergency call no homeowner wants to make. The statistics are clear: 80% of roofs fail prematurely, and 61% of homeowners can't afford the emergency repairs that follow.
What You Get with Weather Shield Roofing:
Don't Wait Until It's Too Late
Join thousands of smart Myrtle Beach homeowners who protect their investment with regular maintenance.
Emergency? Call our 24/7 hotline: (843) 877-5539
Our Roofing Services
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