STORM SEASON PREP: PROTECTING YOUR BROWNSVILLE HOME

Hurricane season runs June through November in South Texas, and the Rio Grande Valley is no stranger to tropical storms, high winds, and severe hail. Here's how to prepare your roof before storm season and what to do if your roof sustains damage — so you can protect your home and navigate the insurance process with confidence.

PRE-SEASON ROOF INSPECTION

The most important thing you can do before storm season is schedule a professional roof inspection. A qualified inspector can identify vulnerabilities that could become major problems during a storm — loose flashing, deteriorating shingles, compromised seals around penetrations, and more. Addressing these issues before storm season is far less expensive than emergency repairs after the fact.

• Schedule a professional inspection in April or May, before hurricane season
• Have all flashings inspected and resealed if necessary
• Check that all roof penetrations (vents, skylights, chimneys) are properly sealed
• Inspect gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage

DOCUMENT YOUR ROOF'S CURRENT CONDITION

Before storm season, take photos and video of your roof from the ground. Document any existing damage or wear. This documentation is invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim after a storm, as it establishes the pre-storm condition of your roof and helps distinguish new storm damage from pre-existing issues.

• Photograph your entire roof from multiple angles
• Document any existing damage or wear
• Store documentation in a cloud service for easy access
• Review your homeowner's insurance policy and understand your coverage

WHAT TO DO IMMEDIATELY AFTER STORM DAMAGE

If your roof sustains damage during a storm, acting quickly is critical. Water can penetrate your home's structure within minutes, and mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours. Here's what to do immediately after storm damage to minimize further damage and protect your insurance claim.

• Call UpLift Roofing immediately at (956) 371-8957 for emergency tarping
• Document all visible damage with photos before any cleanup
• Do not attempt to go on the roof yourself — it's dangerous after a storm
• Contact your insurance company to report the damage

NAVIGATING THE INSURANCE CLAIMS PROCESS

Filing an insurance claim for storm damage can be overwhelming, especially when you're already dealing with the stress of a damaged home. Understanding the process and working with an experienced roofing contractor can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.

• File your claim promptly — most policies have time limits
• Be present when the insurance adjuster inspects your roof
• Have your roofing contractor present during the adjuster's inspection
• Don't accept the first settlement offer if it seems insufficient