Roofs at higher risk for damage as storms roll in

You rely on the roof over your head to keep you dry and warm. With rain in the forecast for the next week, is your roof ready to withstand the storm?

Some homeowners said they’re not worried.

“Well everybody can think like that when it’s heavy rain, but not this kind of rain. I don’t think so,” said Salinas resident Joseph Margos.

Owner of Ariana Roofing in Watsonville, Nieves Jauregui, said it is better to be safe than sorry when the storms roll in.

“Mr. Water will wanna get in there and Mr. Winter will be shaking your roof pretty good,” said Jauregui.

Jauregui said large trees are one of the biggest threats to roofs during a storm, and that weak branches can come crashing down in a matter of seconds.

If you suspect that damage has been done to your roof, one of your first reactions may be to grab a ladder and check it out for yourself. Jauregui said this is one of the most dangerous things you can do in a storm.

“Theres a lot of hidden dangers on your roof. You’ve got electrical wires, drop lines that touch your roof. Those need to be checked and not touched. You want to check those things before the rain comes,” said Jauregui.

With a few months of winter left and possible storms to come, Jauregui said contractors can help you install “rubber collars” around the jacks on your roof. These are made to prevent leaks and damage from happening as the rain pours down.

If a leak does happen at your home, Jauregui said removing all electronics from the wet area should be the first priority to prevent electrocution. To ensure safety, he recommends waiting for a professional to come and fix the problem.

“As we head into January, mid-February our weather will increase. We don’t know what its gonna do, but preventative maintenance always comes up in front,” said Jauregui.