What to Do if Lightning Strikes Your Roof

According to a Destin, FL roofing company, lightning strikes are common in Florida, especially during hurricane season. Some bolts of lightning have over 100 million volts of electricity and can cause serious damage. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for roofs to be struck.

The good news is many insurance policies cover the damage. It can be disheartening to pay a lot of money for something that’s out of your control. That’s why it’s important to invest in an insurance policy that protects your home from lightning strikes.

At Kings Roofing, a leader of Destin roofing companies, we understand that sometimes, you need your roof repaired as quickly as possible. However, lightning strikes aren’t a scenario that many people think about. We’ve compiled some tips on what to do if lightning does strike your roof.

Is My Home at Risk to Be Struck by Lightning?

Florida is known as the lightning capital of the United States, especially during hurricane season. According to Destin, FL roofing companies, the state’s geography is a big reason why. Florida is notorious for its summer thunderstorms and sea breezes, making storms more severe. Lightning strikes killed 280 people in Florida between 2009 and 2019.

Your home in Florida is at a greater risk of being struck by lightning than anywhere else in the United States. Unfortunately, there isn’t much you can do to stop it.

Can Lightning Strikes Cause Roof Damage?

As a leading Destin roofing company, we know that lightning can damage your roof and other parts of your home. A direct bolt of lightning hitting your roof can cause severe structural damage, punctured shingles, and even electrical fires. Strong lightning bolts can cause your roof to crack down the middle. It can also damage your gutters, shingles, and the eaves of your home.

Although your home’s roof takes most lightning damage, the rest of your home can be impacted. The shock of the strike can cause materials to fall off your house––it can also cause issues with your home’s electrical system.

Can Lightning Get Inside of Your Home?

An experienced roof repair company in Destin should know that there are three ways lightning can travel into your home. The first and most common way is through a direct strike. The other two ways are when lightning enter through your home’s pipes or through the wires that extend outside. Once inside, lightning can affect many different aspects of your home, including your electricity, plumbing system, and walls.

Steps to Take Directly after a Lightning Strike

According to a roofing company in Destin, you can tell your home has been struck by lightning if you hear a heavy explosive sound. The first thing you do is check your home for any fires, call 911 if you find one. If there is no fire, inspect your roof from the ground for any severe damage. Test your water pressure, landlines, and circuit breakers for damage.

Call a roofing contractor to check for any further problems. Trained roofing professionals can safely access your roof and check for any cracks, holes, or other damage the storm might have caused.

Are You Looking to Work with a Trusted Destin, FL Roofing Company?

Kings Roofing is a leader of Destin roofing companies specializing in roof installations, replacements, repairs, and metal roofs. We service both residential and commercial buildings in Destin, Panama City, Tallahassee, Pensacola, and numerous other neighboring communities.

You can contact us online today for a free roofing quote or give us a call at 850-215-0423 to speak with a specialist about your Destin roof.