Tag Archive for: Roofing Contractors Atlanta Ga

Commercial Roof Damage – When to Call a Professional Roofer

Avoid business closure and revenue loss from a damaged and leaking commercial roof. Recognizing commercial roof damage and when to call a professional roofer keeps your business safe and protected from the elements.

Damage and repair commercial roof

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information about commercial roofing system damage requiring roof repair or replacement by a commercial roofer and how a maintenance program protects your home.

Identifying Damage on Low-Slope Membrane Roofs

Damage and repair commercial low slope roof

Low-slope membrane roofs are typical for commercial buildings due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation. However, these roofs have specific weaknesses, especially in handling water drainage and UV exposure.

Ponding Water – When water accumulates on low-slope roofs, it poses a severe threat. Ponding water weakens the roofing material, increases the leak risks, and creates an ideal environment for mold and algae growth. Water that does not drain within 48 hours requires immediate attention. Call a professional roofer to install corrective drainage or adjust the slope to allow proper water flow.

Blistering and Bubbling – Blistering occurs when air or moisture becomes trapped beneath the membrane. This can result from poor installation, severe weather, or general aging. Blisters weaken the roof’s surface, increasing the risk of leaks and structural issues. Address blistering and bubbling promptly, as even small blisters can burst and lead to water infiltration.

Cracks or Tears in the Membrane – The membrane material on low-slope roofs faces regular strain from temperature changes, expansion, and contraction. Cracks or tears in the membrane compromise the roof’s integrity, increasing the risk of leaks and water damage. These issues often occur in high-traffic areas or near HVAC units. Don’t ignore cracks—early repairs prevent costly water damage.

Metal Roof Damage

Damage and repair commercial metal roof penetrations

Metal roofs are known for their durability and energy efficiency, making them a popular roof for commercial properties. However, even metal roofs can suffer damage over time.

Rust and Corrosion – Metal roofs are susceptible to rust, especially if the coating wears off or the roof experiences prolonged exposure to moisture. Rust weakens the metal, creating holes that allow water infiltration. Regular inspections help catch rust early, but visible corrosion means immediate repairs are necessary to prevent further damage.

Loose or Missing Fasteners – Strong winds, expansion, and contraction can loosen or dislodge fasteners, creating gaps in the roofing material. Loose fasteners allow water to penetrate the roof, leading to leaks and moisture damage. Call a roofer to inspect and replace missing fasteners as soon as you notice this issue.

Panel Lifting and Warping – Temperature fluctuations cause metal panels to expand and contract, leading to panel lifting or warping. These deformations increase the risk of leaks, as water can seep between the lifted panels. A professional roofer can assess the damage and secure or replace panels.

Built-Up Roofing (BUR) Warning Signs

Damage and repair commercial built up roof

Built-up roofing (BUR) is bitumen, tar, or asphalt layers topped with gravel or mineral surfaces. A built-up roof requires regular maintenance to prevent deterioration.

Alligatoring – This condition refers to cracks and splits in the roof’s surface, like an alligator’s skin. This issue often results from prolonged UV exposure and aging. Alligatoring compromises the roof’s ability to repel water, leading to leaks and water damage. If you see alligatoring, act quickly as delayed repairs can worsen the damage.

Gravel Erosion – BUR roofs rely on gravel to protect the underlying layers from UV radiation. Over time, weather conditions and debris can cause gravel displacement, exposing the bitumen or asphalt layers. Without gravel, these layers become vulnerable to UV damage and degradation. Replacing displaced gravel maintains the roof’s protection.

Blistering – BUR roofs can develop blisters due to trapped air or moisture within the layers. Blistering weakens the roofing surface and can lead to leaks. Contact a roofer immediately if you see blisters on a BUR roof, as they often signal compromised layers that allow water to infiltrate the structure.

Roof Maintenance Contract for Commercial Properties

Damage inspection and repair commercial roof

A roof maintenance contract offers essential care for commercial roofs, ensuring routine inspections and upkeep. Professional roofers can spot emerging issues like loose panels, small cracks, or blistering before they escalate, ultimately saving property owners from costly repairs. Maintenance contracts not only protect the roof itself but also preserve the structural integrity and assets inside the building.

Through a maintenance contract, commercial building owners receive regular inspections and prioritized service, keeping the roof in optimal condition and preventing disruptions to daily operations. Routine inspections, including post-storm evaluations, detect wear or damage immediately. A roofer’s trained eye identifies subtle issues that might go unnoticed during casual observations, like slight panel shifts or minor membrane damage.

Annual Inspections – Annual inspections are a vital component of commercial roof care. During these evaluations, professional roofers assess the roof’s condition, checking for damage, wear, and potential vulnerabilities.

Early Leak Detection – Leaks are the most common problem for commercial roofs. They lead to water damage, mold growth, and structural concerns if left unaddressed. An inspection catches signs of leaks before they affect the building’s interior, reducing repair costs.

Identifying Structural Issues – Harsh weather, wind, and heavy rain can impact a roof’s structural integrity, leading to gradual weakening over time. Inspections reveal areas with minor weaknesses that might worsen under extreme weather conditions, such as fasteners coming loose on a metal roof or small cracks on a BUR surface.

Improving Longevity – Regular maintenance extends a roof’s lifespan. Commercial roofs can serve a building for decades (with proper maintenance), eliminating the need for premature replacements. Quality care, including regular inspections and timely repairs, keeps the roof performing at its best.

When to Call a Professional Roofer

Professional roofer damage and repair commercial roof

Knowing when to call a professional roofer can be the difference between a minor repair and a significant overhaul. Commercial roofs face exposure to harsh elements, making regular inspections and maintenance essential. Address issues like ponding water, rust, gravel displacement, or blistering quickly to prevent them from escalating.

Commercial roof repairs require specialized skills and equipment, so relying on a professional ensures the job is done correctly and safely. Professional roofers bring expertise to every inspection, repair, and maintenance task, allowing building owners to focus on their business operations.

Commercial Roof and Investment Protection

In this article, you discovered how to identify commercial roof damage, when to call a professional roofer, and how a maintenance program can prevent leaks and costly repairs.

Recognizing early damage signs, knowing when to call a professional roofer, and having a roof maintenance contract help business owners save money and protect company assets.

Failure to recognize roof damage can lead to severe leaks, extensive property damage, business closure, revenue loss, and costly repairs.

Sources:
gsa.gov/real-estate/historic-preservation/historic-preservation-policy-tools/preservation-tools-resources/technical-procedures/types-of-flat-roofing-and-factors-affecting-its-deterioration
ibhs.org/wp-content/uploads/Commercial-Roofs-Best-Practices.pdf
campuspress.yale.edu/ledger/how-to-stay-on-top-of-your-commercial-building-maintenance/

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
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Residential Roof Damage – When to Call a Roofer

Prevent roof leaks and costly repairs from a damaged residential roof. Knowing how to spot roof damage and when to call a roofer keeps your home safe and protected from the elements.

Damage detection residential roof

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information about different roofing system damage requiring roof repair or replacement by a professional roofer and how a maintenance program protects your home.

Roof Damage and When to Call a Roofer

Recognizing signs of roof damage early and knowing when to call a roofer is crucial in preventing minor issues from turning into expensive repairs. Different roofing materials experience wear and tear in unique ways, and understanding these distinctions can help homeowners make informed decisions about repair or replacement.

Asphalt Shingle Roofs

Damage detection residential asphalt shingle roof

Asphalt shingles are popular for residential homes due to their affordability and durability. However, they are also prone to damage, especially under severe weather conditions.

Missing or Cracked Shingles – High winds, heavy rain, and hail can cause asphalt shingles to loosen, crack, or fall off. Missing shingles leave roof sections vulnerable to leaks, mold growth, and water damage. Damaged shingles should be repaired or replaced immediately to avoid further deterioration.

Granule Loss – Asphalt shingles contain granules that protect them from UV rays and enhance their durability. Granule loss is a common issue, particularly with older roofs, and can be identified by finding granules in gutters or downspouts. Significant granule loss means shingles have lost their protective layer, which reduces their lifespan and effectiveness. Call a roofer promptly if you notice granule buildup.

Curling or Buckling Shingles – Curling or buckling shingles often indicate water damage, age, or poor attic ventilation. If your shingles show signs of warping, it’s essential to have them inspected and potentially replaced, as they can allow water to seep beneath the roof surface, leading to leaks and structural issues.

Read more about residential roofing systems at newimageroofingatlanta.com/residential-roofing-what-you-need-to-know

Clay Tile Roofs

Damage detection residential clay tile roof

Clay tiles are known for their durability and aesthetic appeal, especially in warmer climates. Despite their longevity, clay tiles can still incur damage that warrants immediate attention.

Cracked or Broken Tiles – Clay tiles are highly resistant to most weather conditions. However, they can crack or break under heavy impact, like hail or falling debris. Cracked tiles should be replaced as soon as possible to prevent water penetration and potential damage to the underlayment.

Algae or Moss Growth – Algae and moss can build up on clay tile roofs, especially in humid climates. While this may seem like a minor issue, over time, growth can cause tiles to become slippery, making it dangerous for maintenance workers. It can also create cracks where water can enter. Regular cleaning and prompt growth removal can protect your clay tile roof’s integrity.

Loose or Missing Tiles – Clay tiles may loosen over time due to shifting foundations or strong winds. If left unaddressed, loose tiles can slide off, leading to gaps and allowing water to reach the underlayment, which may result in extensive water damage. It’s wise to call a roofer immediately if you notice missing or loose tiles.

Low-Slope Residential Roofs

Damage detection residential low slope roof

Low-slope or flat roofs are commonly used for commercial buildings but are also seen in residential structures. Because they don’t shed water as quickly as steeper roofs. They are more prone to water accumulation and damage.

Ponding Water – Flat roofs commonly suffer from standing water, especially after heavy rainfall. If water does not drain within 48 hours, it can weaken the roof material, increase the risk of leaks, and promote mold growth. A roofer can address poor drainage by inspecting drains or adding a slight slope for proper water flow.

Blistering or Bubbling – Blistering occurs when air or moisture gets trapped beneath the roof membrane. This can result from poor installation, heat, or general wear. Blistering may eventually burst, allowing water to infiltrate the roof and cause significant damage. Address blistering or bubbling promptly to prevent further issues.

Cracks or Splits in the Membrane – Low-slope roofs are vulnerable to cracking and splitting, particularly in areas that experience extreme temperature fluctuations. The expansion and contraction from temperature changes can weaken the roof membrane over time. Even minor cracks should be repaired quickly, as they can lead to leaks and structural concerns.

Roof Maintenance Contract

Damage detection and residential roof maintenance

A roof maintenance contract can provide homeowners consistent care, ensuring potential problems are addressed before they escalate. A professional roofer can spot issues like loose shingles, clogged gutters, and emerging leaks early, preventing the need for costly repairs.

With a maintenance contract, homeowners are assured their roof is monitored. Annual or bi-annual inspections allow roofers to check for damage or wear from seasonal changes, storms, or other weather events. Furthermore, a maintenance plan can include services like gutter cleaning, debris removal, and minor repairs, contributing to your roof’s overall health and longevity.

Annual Roof Inspections

Annual inspection damage detection residential roof

Regular inspections are the foundation of proactive roof care. During an inspection, a professional will assess the roof’s condition, looking for signs of damage, wear, and vulnerability. Here’s how these annual checks make a difference:

Early Detection – Roof leaks are common and costly issues homeowners face. An annual inspection can identify early signs of moisture infiltration, such as water stains, damp insulation, or mold growth in the attic. By addressing leaks early, homeowners can prevent extensive interior damage.

Structural Weaknesses Identification – Weather-related damage can cause minor weaknesses in a roof that may worsen over time. Inspections ensure that fractures, cracks, or loose shingles are caught before they develop into more severe problems.
Improved Roof Longevity

Timely maintenance extends a roof’s lifespan, reducing the need for premature replacements. A well-maintained roof is the best defense against weather damage, moisture, and wear.

Know When to Call a Roofer

When to call a roofer damage detection residential roof

A healthy roof is essential for a safe and secure home. Understanding the unique damage risks associated with different roof types – asphalt shingles, clay tiles, or low-slope roofs – helps homeowners take timely action when issues arise. Prompt repairs prevent problems from escalating, ensuring your home remains protected year-round. However, the best defense is a maintenance strategy with regular inspections.

Consider a roof maintenance contract as an investment in your home’s value and personal security. Partnering with a professional roofer for routine inspections ensures minor issues don’t become significant repairs, preserving your roof’s integrity and longevity. So, if you suspect any damage or haven’t had an inspection recently, calling a roofer might be the best decision for your home’s future.

Residential Roof Damage

In this article, you discovered residential roof damage signs, when to call a professional roofer, and how to benefit from a roof maintenance program.

Knowing how to spot residential roof damage, how to get it fixed, and why you should have a roof maintenance program will keep your home safe and help your roof reach or exceed its intended lifespan.

Not addressing residential roof damage can lead to severe leaks, extensive property damage, and costly repairs.

Sources:
sites.psu.edu/socialtrends/2022/11/16/is-your-roof-properly-maintained
campuspress.yale.edu/ledger/how-to-examine-your-house-for-damage-after-a-storm

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
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Lightning Strikes on Commercial Roofs – Risks, Damage, and Prevention

Avoid revenue loss, severe structural damage, and destructive power surges when lightning strikes your commercial building. Understanding the power lightning carries and how to divert it will help prevent catastrophic lightning damage to your building and business.

Lightning damage commercial roof

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered information about how lightning strikes wreak havoc on electrical systems, appliances, and structural elements and what you can do to mitigate them.

What Attracts Lightning to Commercial Buildings?

Lightning naturally seeks the shortest and easiest path to the ground. It is attracted to:

Tall Structures – Taller buildings and structures become prime targets for lightning strikes. The higher a building rises above its surroundings, the greater the chance lightning will strike it. This is particularly true for skyscrapers, factories, and commercial complexes.

Metallic Objects – Lightning also seeks conductive materials like metals. Many commercial buildings use metal roofs, have rooftop equipment, or feature metal structures that make them more attractive to lightning.

Rooftop Equipment – Antennas, HVAC units, satellite dishes, and other equipment on commercial roofs provide pathways for lightning to reach the building’s electrical systems.

These objects increase the likelihood of a direct hit during a storm.

Water or Moisture – Wet surfaces act as efficient conductors for electricity. A wet commercial roof, especially metal, can amplify the chances of a lightning strike and increase the damage potential.

Visit FEMA’s National Lightning Risk Index to see your area’s relative risk for lightning strikes HERE.

Energy in a Lightning Strike

Powerful lightning damage commercial roof

Lightning carries immense energy, capable of causing catastrophic damage. The average lightning bolt can have between 1 billion and 10 billion volts of electricity, with current ranging from 30,000 to 300,000 amperes.

The energy released during a lightning strike happens in microseconds, making it incredibly destructive. The heat and force can set fire to combustible materials. At the same time, the sheer electrical energy can cause massive surges in electrical systems.

Note: A lightning strike can exceed 50,000°F (five times hotter than the sun’s surface).

Potential Damage to Commercial Buildings and Electronics

A lightning strike on a commercial roof can cause multiple damage types, ranging from minor structural issues to significant system failures. These are among the most common damages:

Fire – The extreme temperatures generated by a lightning strike can ignite roofing materials, insulation, or even the building’s framing. Commercial buildings with combustible roofing material or stored flammable materials are particularly vulnerable to lightning fires.

Roof Damage – A lightning strike can blow holes in a roof, crack tiles, damage membranes, or displace entire sections of roofing material. These openings allow water to enter the building, leading to leaks and further structural damage.

Electrical Surges – When lightning strikes a commercial building, the electrical surge that follows can:

  • Overload wiring systems
  • Destroy electronics
  • Seize HVAC systems
  • Shut down security systems
  • Render essential building infrastructure (including elevators) unusable

Computers, servers, and other equipment sensitive to power surges are especially at risk.

Electronics lightning damage commercial roof

Structural Damage – A lightning strike can disrupt structural elements. A lightning strike can crack walls, damage windows, and shift a building’s foundation. These damages pose severe risks to the building’s safety and stability.

Who to Call After a Lightning Strike

Emergency responders lightning damage commercial roof

After a lightning strike, taking immediate action to assess the damage and ensure the building’s occupant’s safety is crucial. Here’s who you should contact:

Emergency Services – If you detect any fire or gas leaks following a lightning strike (call emergency services immediately). Firefighters can quickly address visible fires, while police can help secure the area if needed.

Electrician – A licensed electrician should assess the electrical systems for damage. Electrical surges from lightning can cause hidden damage to wiring, outlets, and equipment that may not be immediately visible but can pose a risk of fires or system failures later on.

Roofing Contractor – A ROOFING PROFESSIONAL needs to inspect the roof for punctures, cracks, or any damage to the roofing materials. Even small holes can lead to significant water damage over time if not repaired promptly.

HVAC Technician – Many commercial buildings have HVAC units installed on the roof, which are highly vulnerable during a lightning strike. A technician should inspect HVAC systems to ensure they function without severe electrical damage.

Insurance Company – Contact your insurance provider to report the damage and initiate a claim. Document all visible damage, including photographs and written descriptions, as part of the claim process.

Watch this video for more information about insurance policies and how deductibles work.

Preventing Lightning Damage to Commercial Buildings

While you cannot prevent lightning strikes, you can take measures to reduce damage risks and protect your building. Here are some steps building owners can take:

Install a Lightning Protection System (LPS) – A lightning protection system consists of lightning rods, conductor cables, and ground rods that work together to safely direct the energy from a lightning strike away from the building and into the ground. LPS systems are essential for taller buildings or in areas prone to thunderstorms.

Lightning damage commercial roof protection system

Lightning Rods – These rods, installed on the roof or other high points, attract and minimize lightning strikes.

Conductors – These cables carry the electrical charge from the rod down to the ground without letting it pass through the building.

Grounding System – Ground rods safely dissipate the energy into the ground, preventing it from entering the building’s systems.

Use Surge Protectors – Commercial buildings should have surge protection devices (SPDs) in their electrical systems. These devices protect against voltage spikes caused by lightning strikes and prevent damage to sensitive electronics.

Whole-building surge protectors work by diverting excess voltage away from electrical systems, ensuring appliances, computers, and other devices do not suffer damage.

Maintain a Safe Distance Between Trees and Buildings – Trees near commercial buildings can act as lightning attractors. If a lightning strike hits a tree, it may cause large branches to fall on the roof, leading to additional damage. Regular tree trimming and ensuring no large trees are close to the building will help reduce this risk.

Install Non-Conductive Roofing Materials – Buildings with metal roofing systems are more attractive to lightning strikes due to metal’s conductive nature. Consider installing non-metallic roofing materials that offer fire resistance, reducing the likelihood of fires after a strike.

HVAC and Rooftop Equipment Shielding – Ensure rooftop equipment like HVAC systems, antennas, and satellite dishes are properly shielded and grounded to protect them from lightning damage. Adding surge protectors for these systems can further prevent damage.

Lightning and Commercial Buildings

In this article, you discovered how lightning strikes are attracted to commercial buildings, the damage they cause, how to divert them, and what to do after one.

Knowing how to divert or prevent commercial building lightning strikes can help you avoid severe structural and electrical damage.

Ignoring the need for lightning protection systems and using non-conductive material in your building’s construction can lead to catastrophic damage to your structure and electronic systems/equipment and result in indefinite business closure.

Sources:
noaa.gov/jetstream/lightning/lightning-safety
nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/Legacy/IR/nistir89-4113.pdf

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
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Lightning Strikes on Residential Roofs – Causes, Damage, and Prevention

Avoid costly structural damage and destructive power surges when lightning strikes your home. Understanding the power lightning carries and how to divert it will help prevent catastrophic lightning damage to your home.

Lightning strike damage residential roof

New Image Roofing Atlanta gathered crucial information about how lightning strikes affect a home’s electrical systems, appliances, and structural integrity and what you can do to mitigate them.

How Lightning Forms

Lightning forms during thunderstorms resulting from imbalances between positive and negative charges in the atmosphere. Ice crystals and water droplets collide in a storm, creating an electrical charge buildup. A cloud’s upper portion typically holds positive charges, while the lower section becomes negatively charged.

When this imbalance grows large enough, nature corrects it by discharging electricity as a lightning strike. The bolt either moves within the cloud, between clouds, or between the cloud and the ground. A lightning strike to the ground occurs when the negative charge at the cloud’s bottom seeks to connect with positive charges on the Earth’s surface.

What Attracts Lightning?

Lightning strike damage residential roof satellite

Lightning seeks the least resistant path to connect to the ground. This often means it targets tall or conductive objects. Here are some common attractors:

Tall Objects – Lightning frequently strikes the highest point in an area, like trees, utility poles, or a home’s roof.

Conductive Materials – Lightning is attracted to conductive materials like metals. Roofs with metal flashing or metal objects mounted on them (like satellite dishes, antennas, or chimneys) may become targets for lightning.

Water and Wet Surfaces – Water is an excellent electricity conductor. If a roof is wet, it can enhance conductivity, making it more attractive to lightning.

Note: Lightning doesn’t need to hit the exact rooftop to cause damage. Even nearby strikes can result in electrical surges and fires within your home.

Energy in a Lightning Strike

Lightning is powerful. The average lightning bolt can contain up to 1 billion electrical volts with temperatures exceeding 50,000°F (five times hotter than the sun’s surface). The energy released by a lightning strike can be up to 300 kilowatt-hours in a fraction of a second. This immense energy release can damage everything, including electronics, electrical wiring, and a home’s structural integrity.

Potential Damage to a Home’s Structure and Electronics

Lightning strike damage residential shingle roof

A direct lightning strike to a residential roof can cause various damages, including:

Fire Damage – The intense heat from a lightning strike can ignite combustible materials like wood and shingles on a home’s roof. Even metal roofs are not immune to fire risks since the heat can reach high enough temperatures to cause surrounding materials to catch fire.

Roof Damage – A lightning strike’s force can shatter roof tiles, damage shingles, or puncture holes in the roof. This leaves the home vulnerable to further damage from rainwater entering the structure.

Electrical Damage – Power surges are among the most common lightning results. When lightning strikes a home or nearby power lines, the surge can travel through electrical wiring, destroying appliances and electronics. Devices like televisions, computers, and HVAC systems are particularly vulnerable.

Lightning strike electronics damage residential roof

Plumbing Damage – If your home has metal plumbing, lightning can travel through it, leading to ruptures, leaks, or electrocution hazards.

Structural Damage – A lightning strike’s force can cause cracks in walls, damage to chimneys, and even foundation movement in extreme cases.

Who to Call After a Lightning Strike

Emergency responders lightning strike damage residential roof

If your home is struck by lightning, you should immediately ensure your family’s and your property’s safety. Here’s who to contact:

Emergency Services – If you notice fire, smoke, or gas leak indications after a lightning strike, call 911 immediately. Lightning-induced fires can spread quickly, and first responders can prevent an issue from becoming catastrophic.

Electrician – Even if there are no immediate damage signs, have an electrician inspect your home’s electrical system. A surge from a lightning strike can cause hidden damage to your wiring, outlets, and appliances that may lead to future problems or fire risks.

Roofer – A licensed professional roofing contractor should inspect your roof for any damage caused by the strike. Even small punctures or cracks in the shingles can lead to leaks and water damage over time.

Plumber – If your home has metal plumbing, a plumber should inspect your pipes for damages. Lightning can cause holes in pipes or weaken them, leading to potential leaks or bursts later on.

Insurance Company – Lightning strikes are usually covered by homeowner’s insurance policies. Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and start the claims process. Be sure to document all visible damage and keep any receipts for emergency repairs.

Watch this video to learn more about insurance coverage and deductibles.

Preventing and Diverting Lightning Strikes

While you can’t stop a lightning strike from happening, there are several steps you can take to minimize damage risks to your home:

Install a Lightning Protection System – A lightning rod system is designed to direct a lightning strike’s energy safely into the ground, preventing damage to your home. The system typically includes rods, conductors, and ground rods that create a low-resistance path for the electricity to follow.

Lightning strike damage protection residential roof

Surge Protectors – Install whole-home surge protectors to help guard against power surges from lightning. These devices are connected to your home’s main electrical panel, preventing excess electricity from reaching your outlets and appliances.

Unplug Electronics – During a storm, it’s best to unplug sensitive electronics like televisions, computers, and kitchen appliances. While surge protectors help, unplugging devices offers maximum protection from surges.

Tree Trimming – Trees near your home can become targets for lightning. Keep them trimmed and ensure that large limbs are not hanging over your roof. If lightning strikes a tree, falling or ejected branches can cause significant damage to your roof.

Use Non-Combustible Roofing Materials – If you live in an area prone to lightning, consider using fire-resistant roofing materials like metal or tile. These materials are less likely to ignite compared to traditional asphalt shingles.

Read more about lightning strike prevention HERE.

Lightning and Residential Structures

In this article, you discovered how lightning strikes affect residential structures, the damage they cause, how to divert them, and what to do after one.

Knowing how to divert or prevent residential lightning strikes can help avoid costly structural and electrical damage.

Ignoring the need for lightning protection systems and using non-conductive material in your home’s construction can lead to catastrophic damage to your structure and electronic systems/equipment, resulting in an uninhabitable residence.

Sources:
noaa.gov/jetstream/lightning/lightning-safety
nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/Legacy/IR/nistir89-4113.pdf
nfpa.org/news-blogs-and-articles/blogs/2024/09/11/nfpa-780-and-protecting-buildings-from-lightning-strikes

  New Image Roofing Atlanta
 

    2020 Howell Mill Rd NW Suite 232
    Atlanta, GA 30318
    (404) 680-0041
 
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