Summer storms can roll in quickly, bringing high winds, torrential downpours, hail, and lightning within a span of minutes. Then they depart, leaving behind damages. Summer storms are intense and unpredictable, and you never know what kind of damage your home will sustain. Gutters, roofs, siding, windows and doors can all be damaged. Fortunately, with the right preparation and maintenance, you can reduce your risk and protect your home when severe weather strikes.

Here’s how to prepare your property before the next storm hits, courtesy of the professionals at TA Hughes.

Key Takeaways

• Routine roof inspections are crucial—small issues like missing shingles or cracked flashing can lead to major water damage during summer storms.
• Clean and repair your gutters to ensure water is directed safely away from your home’s foundation, preventing erosion, leaks, and structural problems.
• Inspect siding, soffits, and fascia for signs of damage or looseness, as these areas are common points of water intrusion during high winds and rain.
• Trim trees and secure outdoor items to prevent broken branches and airborne debris from damaging your roof, siding, or windows.
• After a storm, check for exterior and interior damage, document everything with photos, and contact TA Hughes for emergency repairs or a full inspection to prevent further issues.

Inspect and Maintain Your Roof

First and foremost: inspect and maintain your roof. After all, your roof is the first line of defense against the elements. Check for any signs of wear or damage, including missing or lifted shingles, cracked flashing, or loose ridge caps. Even a small area of vulnerability can allow water to seep in during a heavy storm, leading to leaks and interior water damage.

If your roof hasn’t been inspected in over a year—or if you notice visible issues—it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection. TA Hughes offers thorough roofing assessments to catch problems before they become emergencies.

Clean and Repair Your Gutters

Summer storms in New Jersey have a tendency to produce large amounts of rain in a short clip. If your gutters are clogged with debris, the water is going to have nowhere to go, causing overflow that runs down the side of your home. The end result is damaged fascia, siding, and foundation. 

Make sure your gutters and downspouts are free-flowing, properly attached to your home, and capable of directing water at least 3-5 feet away from the foundation. 

Check Siding, Soffits, and Fascia

Strong winds and heavy rain can loosen or damage exterior components like siding panels, soffits, and fascia boards. Walk around your home and look for any areas that appear warped, detached, or compromised. Storm-driven rain can easily find its way behind these vulnerable spots and cause moisture issues, mold, or rot.

Address any loose or damaged areas before a storm exposes them further. TA Hughes can repair or reinforce exterior surfaces to improve both protection and curb appeal.

Trim Trees and Remove Dead Limbs

Trees are beautiful and functional, but they can also cause untold amounts of damage when left untrimmed. High winds or lightning strikes can bring branches crashing down on your home, resulting in broken windows, crushed gutters, or punctured roofing.

Trim back overhanging branches, remove dead or weak limbs, and consider professional tree service if you have larger trees close to your home.

Secure Outdoor Items

Even a small object can break a window when picked up by strong winds. You will want to secure patio furniture, grills, umbrellas, and garden decorations before they become dangerous projectiles. 

Protect Your Windows and Doors

Wind-driven rain often finds its way into homes through poorly sealed windows and doors. Inspect all exterior doors and window frames for worn weatherstripping, cracked caulking, or warped frames. Replace any failing seals to keep water out and maintain energy efficiency during the warmer months.

In severe storm zones, consider installing storm shutters or impact-resistant windows to reduce the risk of shattering.

What Should You Do After a Storm?

Even with thorough preparation, summer storms can still cause damage to your home. Once it’s safe to go outside, take a walk around your property and carefully inspect for visible issues. Look for missing shingles, dented or dislodged siding, damaged gutters, fallen branches, or debris buildup that may have landed on your roof.

Inside, check the attic, ceilings, and upper walls for any signs of water intrusion, such as stains, damp spots, peeling paint, or unusual odors. Catching these issues early can prevent mold growth and structural damage.

Be sure to document any damage with clear photos from multiple angles. This step is essential for filing a successful insurance claim and getting repairs covered quickly.

After documenting the damage, contact a licensed contractor for a professional inspection. TA Hughes offers emergency roof tarping, prompt damage assessments, and reliable repair services to help you recover quickly. Whether it’s a minor repair or a major fix, our team is ready to restore your home and prevent further issues.

Be Proactive Before the Storm and Call TA Hughes for Roof Maintenance

The best way to protect your home from summer storm damage is to stay ahead of issues year-round. Routine maintenance of your roof, gutters, siding, and exterior elements can prevent small problems from becoming big ones when the weather turns rough.

Let TA Hughes help you protect your South Jersey home this summer. With over 35 years of experience in roofing and exterior systems, our team is here to handle inspections, repairs, and upgrades that keep your home safe and secure—no matter what the forecast says.

Schedule a storm prep inspection today by calling 856-845-8505 or filling out our online contact form.