How to Prepare Your Home Exterior for Hurricane Season in Wake County

Hurricane season in North Carolina runs from June through November, and for homeowners in Wake County, preparation is critical. High winds, heavy rain, and flying debris can wreak havoc on your roof, siding, gutters, and overall home structure. Taking proactive steps to secure your home’s exterior not only reduces the risk of storm damage but also improves your chances of a successful insurance claim if damage does occur.

At United Contracting, we help homeowners prepare for and recover from severe weather. This guide outlines how to get your home exterior storm-ready and protect your property before the next hurricane reaches landfall.

Why Hurricane Preparation Matters in Wake County

While coastal areas of North Carolina face the brunt of hurricanes, Wake County often experiences intense wind, rainfall, and storm surge remnants. Hurricanes or tropical storms that track inland bring:

• Uprooted trees and flying debris
  
  
• Torn shingles and damaged siding
  
  
• Clogged or broken gutters
  
  
• Flash flooding and roof leaks
  
  
• Structural damage from prolonged rain exposure
  
  

The cost of recovery can be significant, especially if insurance denies part of your claim due to “failure to maintain” or prevent further damage. Proper hurricane prep helps reduce risk and protect your coverage.

Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Your Home’s Exterior for Hurricane Season

1. Inspect and Reinforce the Roof

Your roof is the most vulnerable part of your home during a hurricane. Wind uplift can start at the edges and quickly peel back shingles or entire sections of roofing.

What to do:

• Schedule a free inspection with United Contracting before storm season
  
  
• Replace missing, loose, or damaged shingles
  
  
• Secure flashing and ridge caps
  
  
• Consider installing high-wind-rated shingles or metal roofing
  
  
• Reinforce roof decking with ring-shank nails or hurricane straps if permitted by code
  
  

2. Clear and Secure Gutters and Downspouts

Gutters play a key role in directing water away from your foundation. During hurricanes, heavy rainfall can overwhelm blocked gutters, leading to water intrusion and fascia damage.

Checklist:

• Remove debris, leaves, and branches from gutters
  
  
• Ensure downspouts are clear and direct water away from the home
  
  
• Check for loose or sagging sections and reattach as needed
  
  
• Consider installing gutter guards to prevent future clogs
  
  

3. Inspect and Protect Siding

Siding can crack, warp, or detach under high wind pressure, especially if it is aged or improperly installed. Even minor vulnerabilities can allow wind-driven rain to seep into the wall system.

Steps to take:

• Look for cracks, loose panels, or moisture stains
  
  
• Repair or replace damaged areas
  
  
• Re-caulk windows and door frames where siding meets trim
  
  
• Consider upgrading to impact-resistant vinyl or fiber cement siding
  
  

4. Trim Nearby Trees and Branches

One of the leading causes of storm damage is tree limbs crashing into roofs or siding. Proper tree care can reduce the likelihood of impact damage.

What to do:

• Remove dead or weak branches
  
  
• Trim limbs that overhang the roof or siding
  
  
• Schedule tree pruning well before peak hurricane months
  
  

5. Secure Outdoor Items and Fixtures

Loose patio furniture, grills, decorations, and even satellite dishes can become dangerous projectiles during a storm.

Preparation tips:

• Anchor or store lightweight objects inside a garage or shed
  
  
• Secure fencing, deck furniture, and detached structures
  
  
• Check that exterior light fixtures and utility boxes are tightly fastened
  
  

Bonus Tip: Take Pre-Storm Photos of Your Home

Before hurricane season peaks, take date-stamped photos of your roof, siding, and gutters. These can serve as proof of condition if you need to file an insurance claim after a storm.

Include:

• Wide shots of each elevation
  
  
• Close-ups of roofing materials and any previous repairs
  
  
• Photos of attic ceilings or known problem areas
  
  

United Contracting can help you build a pre-storm documentation file as part of a free inspection.

What If Your Home Is Already Damaged?

If your roof or siding shows signs of wear or previous storm impact, do not wait for the next storm to hit. Many insurance companies deny or reduce claims if they determine the damage was pre-existing or preventable.

We offer honest assessments, affordable repair options, and expert guidance on whether to pursue an insurance claim before or after hurricane season.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hurricane Prep in Wake County

Do I need to board up my windows in Wake County?

For homes with standard windows and close tree lines, boarding up may not be necessary unless a Category 2 or higher storm is forecasted. However, impact-rated shutters or pre-cut plywood can provide added protection.

Will insurance cover storm damage if I did not prep in advance?

If you fail to take basic steps to protect your home — such as fixing an active roof leak or clearing gutters — your insurer may deny coverage for resulting damage. Preparation shows that you acted responsibly.

When should I schedule a roof inspection before hurricane season?

Ideally, schedule your inspection in early summer before storms begin. United Contracting provides free storm-readiness inspections starting in May each year.

Can I upgrade my roof for storm protection with help from insurance?

Yes. If your roof has already been damaged by a storm, your insurance may pay for repairs or replacement. You can often upgrade materials during the project and pay only the difference.

Protect Your Home Exterior Before the Storm Hits

Hurricane season is not the time to discover a roofing or siding issue. United Contracting provides professional inspections, fast repairs, and expert advice for storm preparation across Wake, Durham, Franklin, and nearby counties.

Whether you need a quick fix, a complete roof replacement, or emergency tarp installation, we are here to help — before, during, and after the storm.

Call: (984) 363-7670
Email: kyle.h@unitedcontracting.llc
Website: https://unitedcontracting.llc
Business Hours: Monday to Friday 9 AM – 6 PM, Saturday 10 AM – 6 PM