Huntsville summers are more than just backyard BBQs and afternoons at the lake; they also come with surprise thunderstorms, powerful winds, and the kind of downpours that can drench your driveway in minutes. That’s why storm prep in northern Alabama isn’t just about stocking up on batteries; it’s also about ensuring your roof is ready to handle whatever the weather throws at it.
Whether your home is topped with asphalt shingles or a sleek metal roof, here’s how summer storms can impact your roofing system and what you can do to stay protected.
How Summer Storms Impact Alabama Roofs
The combination of intense heat and sudden storms creates the perfect recipe for roofing trouble. Here’s what can happen:
Wind Uplift: High-speed winds can curl or lift asphalt shingles, especially if they’re already aging or improperly sealed. Metal panels may loosen at seams or fasteners if not properly installed.
Flying Debris: Storms can send limbs, branches, or hail directly into your roof, cracking shingles or denting metal panels.
Water Infiltration: Wind-driven rain has a sneaky way of slipping under loose shingles or flashing, leading to hidden leaks that only show up weeks later.
Clogged Gutters and Drainage: When your gutters can’t handle the downpour, water pools around the edges of your roof, and that can lead to fascia rot, mold, and foundation damage.
Asphalt Shingles vs. Metal Roofing in a Storm: What to Know
Not all roofs respond to storms the same way. Here’s a quick comparison:
Asphalt Shingles: Affordable and widely used across Huntsville, asphalt shingles are effective but vulnerable to wind and hail. Impact-resistant and architectural shingles offer better performance than basic three-tab shingles but still require regular inspection.
Metal Roofing: Known for its vitality and strength, metal roofing holds up better against wind and hail. It’s also less prone to cracking or breaking. That said, improper installation or old fasteners can lead to leaks or panel displacement during severe weather.
Bottom line? Regardless of the material, your roof needs a little attention before storm season kicks into high gear.
How to Prep Your Roof for Storm Season in Huntsville, AL
Here’s what every homeowner should do before the next big system rolls in:
- Inspect for Loose Shingles or Panels: Catch issues like curling, cracked, or missing shingles—or lifted edges on metal roofing—before they turn into leaks.
- Check Flashing and Sealants: Make sure areas around chimneys, vents, and skylights are watertight.
- Clear Out Gutters: Remove leaves, pine needles, and debris so water can flow freely during storms.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Help prevent falling limbs from damaging your roof during heavy wind.
- Schedule a Professional Inspection: Even if everything looks okay from the ground, there may be issues you can’t see without a trained eye. Our team offers free inspections and will walk you through any problem spots.
What to Do After a Storm Hits in Huntsville
If your roof takes a hit during a summer storm, don’t wait for the next one to see how bad it is. Look for:
- Water stains on ceilings or in the attic
- Shingle granules in your gutters
- Bent or dented metal panels
- Debris on the roof or in the yard
We offer emergency roof tarping and fast repairs to prevent further damage and help you get peace of mind back ASAP.
Don’t Wait for the Next Storm: Call Best Choice Roofing Today
Huntsville weather can turn fast. Whether you’re rocking a classic asphalt shingle roof or a sleek metal setup, make sure it’s storm-ready with help from the pros. At Best Choice Roofing, we specialize in summer prep, post-storm inspections, and repairs that are built to last.
Call us now or click below to schedule your FREE roof inspection, and take one more thing off your summer to-do list.
