How to Prepare Your Roof for Severe Weather Season in Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne's primary storm season runs March through June. By the time the first hail event hits, it's too late to prepare. The work you do in late winter and early spring determines how well your roof handles whatever the season brings.

The Pre-Season Checklist

1. Get a Professional Inspection

Schedule an inspection in February or early March — before the rush that starts after the first storm. The inspector identifies developing issues (cracked flashing, deteriorating boots, loose shingles) that could become failures under storm stress.

2. Clean the Gutters

Clogged gutters cause water to back up under the eave edge, especially during heavy spring rain. This creates ice dams in cold snaps and accelerates fascia rot. Clean all gutters and downspouts completely and verify water flows freely to the ground.

3. Trim Overhanging Trees

Any branch within 6 feet of the roof is a potential impact point. Trim back to 6+ feet of clearance. Dead branches at any distance should be removed — they break first in wind.

4. Check Flashing and Sealants

Flashing at chimneys, walls, and valleys degrades over time. Sealant cracks and separates. Check every flashing point for gaps, lifted edges, or deteriorated sealant. Re-seal any compromised points with fresh roofing sealant.

5. Re-Seal Lifted Shingles

Walk the perimeter and look for shingle edges that have lifted away from the course below. Lifted edges catch wind and peel back. Apply roofing cement under the lifted edge and press firmly to re-adhere.

6. Check Attic Ventilation

Proper attic ventilation prevents moisture buildup that weakens decking from underneath. Verify soffit vents are unblocked, ridge vents are clear, and attic fans (if present) are operational.

7. Document Current Condition

Photograph your roof from every accessible angle. This "before" documentation proves the roof's condition prior to any storm event — invaluable for insurance claims because it distinguishes storm damage from pre-existing wear.

8. Review Your Insurance

Read your policy before you need it. Know your deductible (flat or percentage), what's covered and what's excluded, and the claims filing process. Finding out you have a $6,000 wind/hail deductible after a storm hits is a bad surprise.

The Cost of Preparation vs. The Cost of Neglect

The entire pre-season checklist costs $200 to $500 if you hire a contractor for the inspection and handle the gutter cleaning and trim yourself. If you hire everything out, budget $400 to $1,000. For the full year-round maintenance program — spring through winter — see our annual roof maintenance checklist for storm prevention.

Compare that to the cost of avoidable damage: a failed flashing point that causes interior water damage during a storm can cost $2,000 to $5,000 to repair. A clogged gutter that causes ice dam damage runs $1,000 to $3,000. A dead branch that falls on the roof adds $500 to $5,000.

The math isn't close. Prepare before the season, not after the damage.

Schedule your pre-season inspection or call (260) 255-4551.