Wind Mitigation Improvements in Cincinnati, Hamilton Areas

Roof deck attachment

It's important to first determine the condition of your existing roof deck and covering by getting it inspected by a professional. Any missing or loose shingles or roof tiles should be replaced. In Ohio and Kentucky, the roof covering should be rated to resist high winds and should be fastened using nails, not staples. If you're planning on having your roof replaced, you should choose a material with a higher wind rating that's also code-approved in Ohio and Kentucky. Whether you need roof repair or replacement, our expert roofers can help you select the best roof material for your home.

Roof-to-wall connections

When hurricane winds hit your home, they not only push against the walls, but they also pull up on the roof. The best way to protect your house from hurricane wind damage is with a continuous load path. This load path is created by connecting the entire structure with special hurricane straps and clips. Your roof is connected to the walls, which are secured to your home's foundation. Retrofitting your home with roof-to-wall connections will improve your roof's wind resistance and can lower the cost of your insurance premium. Many older homes in Ohio and Kentucky didn't need to be built with a continuous load path, so they aren't able to withstand high winds.

Gable-end bracing

A gable end is the triangular-shaped section of a wall between roof pitches. Because gable end walls are the highest walls on most houses, they are exposed to the highest winds. If a gable end wall isn't properly braced, it can collapse and cause significant damage to your home. Luckily, gable-end bracing is one of the easiest hurricane retrofits and should be considered in your overall wind mitigation plan.

Secondary water resistance/roof sealant

Adding an extra layer of protection to your roof can help prevent water from leaking into your home if the shingles are blown off during a windstorm or hurricane. The most common solutions for roof sealing are using a self-adhering modified bitumen underlayment or a foam seal that's sprayed on the underside of the roof deck.

Window/door opening protection

In a hurricane, glass windows and doors will likely be damaged. Hurricane shutters are a cost-effective solution for securing window openings in a storm. Home inspectors in the Greater Cincinnati area also recommend installing shatter-proof windows and doors.