Is Your Roof Ready for the Next Storm Season?

Wilmington, Leland, Southport, and other nearby communities in Coastal Carolina know the drill: one day it’s sunny, the next day it’s 60mph winds and sideways rain. Storm season is unpredictable—and if your roof isn’t ready, you’re risking leaks, costly damage, and a whole lot of stress.

We’ve helped homeowners from Brunswick County to New Hanover and Pender prepare their roofs for hurricane season and beyond. Here's how to assess your current roof, prep smart, and protect your home before the next storm hits.

1. Why Wilmington Roofs Need Special Attention

Coastal homes face more than just weather, they face weather with teeth.

From salt-heavy air to driving wind and rain, roofs near the North Carolina coast experience:

• Higher wind uplift pressures
• Increased corrosion risk from airborne salt
• More moisture exposure and drainage issues

Even if you haven’t noticed leaks, small damage from past storms could leave your roof vulnerable. That’s why local roofing contractors in Wilmington, NC recommend proactive inspections before the season gets rough.

Explore our Roof Repair Services.

2. What to Check Before the Storm Hits

Some of the most damaging issues are the easiest to overlook until it’s too late.

Before hurricane season ramps up, check for:

• Loose, missing, or curling shingles
• Rusted or lifted flashing and exposed nails
• Gutters that sag, overflow, or are clogged with debris
• Tree limbs or branches overhanging your roof
• Soft spots, bubbling, or dips in the roofline (these can indicate hidden damage)

Not sure where to start? Schedule a pre-storm roof inspection today. We’ll do the climbing and the documentation.

3. Why You Shouldn’t Wait for Leaks

It’s tempting to wait until there’s water on the floor to take action but by then, the damage is already done.

• Leaks often start small and silent, hidden in your attic or walls
• Wind-driven rain can exploit even a single missing shingle
• The longer you wait, the more costly the repair—especially if emergency crews are booked out post-storm

According to FEMA, roofs that aren’t reinforced or maintained are far more likely to experience structural damage during hurricanes. Don’t gamble with last-minute repairs. Prep now to prevent the panic.

4. The Importance of Professional Storm Prep

Even if you’re handy around the house, there’s no substitute for a trained roofing eye—especially in a storm-prone area.

At Summit Roofing, we:

• Check critical areas like flashing, sealants, and underlayment
• Reinforce known weak spots before wind tests them
• Provide inspection documentation for your insurance file
• Help you develop a custom maintenance plan if needed

We’ve worked on roofs across Wilmington, Hampstead, and Leland, tailoring each inspection to the home’s exposure, age, and materials. Learn more about the Summit Roofing team and our approach.

5. Bonus Tip: Document Your Roof Before the Storm

Should you need to file a claim, proof of your roof’s pre-storm condition is key.

• Take photos from multiple angles beforehand—roofline, gutters, any vents or flashing
• Save receipts and inspection reports
• Back up your photos in the cloud and prepare to send them to your insurance agent proactively before the storm and damage

This step can speed up the claims process and protect your investment.

See National Weather Service: Storm Readiness Tips for more tips on how to prepare for hurricane season in Coastal NC. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get a roof inspection in Wilmington?

At least once a year, ideally in spring or early summer. You should also schedule an inspection after any major storm, even if there’s no visible damage.

Do you offer emergency roof repair in Wilmington?

Yes. We provide fast-response storm damage repair when unexpected leaks, wind damage, or fallen debris affect your roof. Contact us. You can also see our page on roof replacement. 

Will insurance cover roof damage after a storm?

If storm damage is documented and falls under your policy, yes. We’ll help you file with proper documentation and photos from our inspection.

Your Roof Can’t Wait, Storm Prep Starts Now

Storm season in Wilmington isn’t a matter of if, it’s when. And your roof is your home’s first and strongest defense.

Let Summit Roofing Wilmington help you prep with peace of mind. From thorough inspections to proactive repairs and documentation, we’re here to protect your home before the first raindrop falls.

Schedule your pre-storm inspection, and let’s keep your home safe, dry, and ready for whatever comes next.