Hurricane Watch
Hurricane Watch | Roofing Done Right | Roofing | Charleston
Charlestonâs coastal charm comes with a challenge: hurricanes that can pummel roofs and peace of mind in a single storm. HEPâs Hurricane Watch team blends local know-how with cutting-edge materials, delivering rapid inspections, precision repairs, and fortified installations designed to shrug off tropical winds. Homeowners appreciate our transparent estimates, meticulous cleanup, and the confidence that every shingle is placed to withstand the Lowcountryâs wildest weather.
From Johns Island bungalows to historic downtown townhomes, our crew treats each project as a personal pledge of durabilityâcall it roofing done right. With 24/7 emergency response and warranties that outlast the storm season, HEP ensures your family stays safe, dry, and focused on the sunsets instead of the forecasts.
FAQs
Why is specialized roofing important in Charlestonâs hurricane-prone climate?
Charleston sits on the Atlantic coast and regularly experiences tropical storms and Category 1â3 hurricanes. High winds, driven rain, and flying debris place extreme stress on roofing systems. A roof that is engineered and installed for hurricane resistance reduces the risk of deck uplift, shingle loss, and water intrusionâprotecting your home, belongings, and family while also helping you meet South Carolinaâs strict coastal building codes and potentially lowering insurance premiums.
What roofing materials do you recommend for maximum hurricane resistance?
We typically recommend Class 4 impact-rated architectural shingles, standing-seam metal panels, or concrete/clay tiles rated for 150 mph+ winds. All options are paired with a secondary water barrier such as a peel-and-stick underlayment, 5â8-inch plywood or OSB deck, and stainless or hot-dipped galvanized ring-shank nails. The choice depends on budget, aesthetics, HOA guidelines, and required wind rating, but each system we install exceeds the International Residential Code (IRC) and South Carolina Coastal Zone standards.
How do hurricane clips, straps, and enhanced fasteners make a difference?
Standard nails alone can fail when uplift pressures exceed 100 lbs/ft². We install ASTM-approved hurricane clips or straps that wrap over the roof trusses and anchor directly into the wall top plate, creating a continuous load path from the roof to the foundation. Ring-shank nails spaced 4â6 in. on center further secure the deck. Together, these measures increase uplift resistance by up to 300 %, drastically reducing the chance of roof blow-off during a storm.
Will my homeownerâs insurance cover upgrading to a hurricane-resistant roof?
Most policies do not automatically pay for a proactive upgrade, but many carriers offer wind-mitigation or fortified-roof discounts once the system is installed and inspected. If your roof was storm-damaged and youâre filing a claim, you can often use claim funds for a code-compliant hurricane roof, paying only the difference in material cost. We provide detailed estimates, photographs, and manufacturer wind-resistance data to help you negotiate with your insurer.
How long does installation take and what should I expect?
A typical single-family home (2,200 sq ft roof) takes 2â4 days. Day 1: we obtain permits, deliver materials, set up safety barriers, and remove the old roof. Day 2: we inspect the deck, replace any rotten sheathing, install peel-and-stick underlayment, hurricane clips/straps, and drip edge. Day 3: we lay shingles or metal panels, install ridge vents, and perform a magnet sweep for nails. A final day may be used for inspections, gutter re-attachment, and cleanup. All work is performed by licensed, insured crews and inspected by Charleston County building officials.
What maintenance is required to keep my hurricane-rated roof performing at its best?
Even a fortified roof needs routine care. Inspect after every major storm for missing shingles, bent panels, or displaced flashing. Clear branches, leaves, and moss that trap moisture. Have us perform a professional inspection every 2 years; weâll check sealant joints, fastener tightness, and underlayment integrity. Keep nearby trees trimmed to prevent limb impact, and document all maintenanceâdoing so protects manufacturer warranties and helps validate any future insurance claims.