Thanksgiving will be here before we know it! While our temperatures certainly don't reflect the holiday season just yet, a trip to any local shopping center will let you know that visions of turkeys and family gatherings are at the forefront of everyone's minds. Here in Central Florida though, we have the freedom to celebrate Turkey Day in some unique (and fun) ways! We have some great ideas to help you add some Floridian flair to your Thanksgiving table this year, and give your guests a taste of the Sunshine State.

As you plan your menu, why not try:

A Twist on The Classic Pie

A twist of lime that is! Instead of traditional pumpkin or apple, wow your family and friends with a homemade key lime pie this Thanksgiving! Delicious, cool, and creamy, with just enough tartness to keep things interesting, it is THE classic dessert of Florida. Add some homemade whipped cream on the side (or piled high on top) and it's sure to be a hit!

A Tropical Tan for Your Turkey

A mojo marinade or sweet and spicy orange glaze is never disappointing, especially when it comes out adorning a big, golden turkey fresh from the oven (or the smoker) and placed in the center of the table. Orange, lime, lemon, and other "tropical" flavors reflect all the best of Florida, but blend beautifully with turkey, no matter how you choose to cook it. Recipes for this are nearly endless online. Look up one that calls to you and try something fresh this year!

Keep Your Table Fresh

Fall and Winter are when gardens are dying down across much of the US, but here in Florida, our growing season is still going strong. Many local markets will still have fresh produce of all kinds, so plan your holiday menu around these items! Instead of the typical green bean casserole, why not try sweet and savory roasted brussels sprouts alongside your turkey and mashed potatoes? Add some crunch with a bright salad, or try a fruit salsa to replace canned cranberry sauce. There are SO many ways to bring the freshness of Florida to your Thanksgiving table.

We are ready to make our beautiful home state part of our celebrations this year. How about you? We hope this holiday season is full of all the best for you and the ones you love. EZ Roofing Systems is here to make sure the roof above you this holiday season is secure, and ready to stand up to whatever the weather brings your way. Still dealing with damage from Ian? Our team is dedicated to putting measures in place that will protect your home from further water damage until final repairs can be made. It’s just one more way we make replacing and/or repairing your roof “EZ” and as stress-free as possible. Trust the company that is local, established, and has YOUR best interest at the center of our business.

Happy Thanksgiving from EZ Roofing Systems!

Holidays in Florida always seem to look a little different. Christmas? Sometimes we wear flip-flops and grill out. Thanksgiving? Seafood is a great alternative to turkey! We're used to doing things our own way here. Halloween is around the corner, and it's time to start thinking about how you'll be celebrating. We might not have Fall leaves or chilly air, but we DO have plenty of swimming pools! Did you know, there are lots of ways to make your pool area the hottest party spot in the neighborhood for a scary bash? The best part? You don't have to try very hard or spend much cash to make your pool "spook-tacular".

Here are our favorite ways to bring your pool into the festivities...

Floating Decor

There are SO many possibilities when it comes to items you can float in your pool for decorative purposes. If you want to go all out, carve pumpkins, and float them in your pool after dark with tea-lights flickering inside. Floating jack-o-lanterns take things to a whole new level! If you want something a little easier (and cheaper), opt for the plastic pumpkin buckets available at most stores around the Halloween holiday. Go with all orange for a traditional look, or mix it up and pick an array of colors.

For a spooky glowing effect, blow up balloons with glow sticks inside. Float them in your pool as "glowing orbs". Give it an extra dose of creepy and put glow sticks inside of inflated rubber gloves for glowing hands to disperse in your pool.

Send The Skeletons Floating!
Plastic skeletons are a classic Halloween decoration, but did you know you can kick up the scary fun (and possibly laughs) by taking your skeleton poolside? Pose plastic skeletons in patio lounge chairs with sunglasses, sun hats, drinks, etc. You can even prop one in or on a pool float and send it sailing in your pool. Guests will get a kick out of the newest "swimmer" at the party. The best part? These guests won't eat all the snacks!

Go Big

If you're willing to go farther (and deal with a little more pool cleanup) you can opt for these fun ideas to really impress your guests!

Pool dye won't stain at all, but with one dose you can have a pool full of red "blood", or green "swamp water". After 3 or 4 days, the dye gets filtered out of the system and you're once again left with sparkling blue water ready for swimming.

Fog machines or dry ice are another creepy pool effect that can really amp up the spooky vibe of your party. Place around the exterior edge of your pool and crank up the Halloween tunes, and you'll officially have the best party on your street.

EZ Roofing Systems loves all the aspects of Florida life…even our unique holiday celebrations! We are proud to serve our community here in Polk County with the very best in roofing services. Inspections, repairs, roof replacement…we do it all! Local home and business owners trust us to operate with integrity, honesty, and provide only the best quality in workmanship.

Happy Halloween from EZ Roofing Systems!

When you're facing a roof replacement, the debate between traditional shingles and metal roofing is sure to come up. Some folks are totally sold out on metal roofing with its nostalgic sound on rainy days and its classic look, while others prefer to stay mainstream and stick to the look of shingles that match their neighbors (and are approved by their HOA). We've written plenty of content about shingles and traditional roofing materials, but what are our thoughts on metal roofs? EZ Roofing Systems provides installation services for both types of roofing, so we feel confident when we say we provide a relatively comprehensive list of pros and cons about opting for metal.

So, why should, or shouldn't, you choose metal when you're planning a roof replacement?

Pros

The pros of installing a metal roof, besides the aesthetic component, is the longevity and durability. Metal roofing is known to last up to 70 years, and in Florida's intense weather, that's a big deal! In addition, it can withstand strong winds and resists breakdown and cracking over time, which better protects your home. If that wasn't enough, a metal roof is environmentally friendly! Your new metal roof could lower your energy costs by as much as 25% since it reflects the sun's heat and keeps your home cooler, and since all the materials are recyclable, your roof can be reused at the end of its life cycle protecting your home.

Cons

The primary con when evaluating metal roofs is the COST. A good quality metal roof can be double (or more!) the price of a traditional, shingled roof. This is an important factor for many homeowners, as saving for a roof can take years, and this would add a significant amount of time. If you're already facing a degrading roof and need a replacement fast, a metal roof might not be feasible. In addition to the price, the lack of flexibility (literally and figuratively) could play into your decision. Because metal roofing lasts a long time, you could face having to color match it if you add onto your home or if you end up with an unexpected repair following an accident or hurricane. It's much harder to match metal roofing, especially if it has been years since the original installation.

Do you have questions about metal roofing? Are you wondering what would work best for your budget and your home? We're here to help! Feel free to get in touch with our team and schedule an estimate, where we'll discuss your options and begin the process toward your new roof. EZ Roofing Systems is proud to serve the Central Florida area with roof inspections, repairs, and replacements. We offer competitive pricing, honest and reliable service, and the best in customer care. Call us!

Is your roof approaching its "expiration date" in the coming year? Did you recently receive an inspection that suggested a replacement in the near future? We get it, roof replacements are expensive, and you're likely thinking through how long you can put it off. With prices of goods soaring and many people feeling the crunch, replacing your roof probably wasn't on your short list of things to pay for. However, now might actually be the best time to take the leap and have the work done. Why?

• Supply delays are happening. If you've noticed empty spaces on your store shelves, you're not alone! Unfortunately, some of those same supply issues have hit the roofing industry, and sourcing the materials needed to replace your roof will likely take longer than usual. If you're trying to meet a deadline with your HOA, your insurance company, or are experiencing a worsening leak, you might not have time to wait! Getting started now means you're more likely to get the materials you need by the time your new roof needs to be completed.

• Your new roof isn't the only thing going up! Prices of gasoline, food, lumber, and other high-demand items are through the roof (pun intended!) and roofing materials are no exception. Shingles, plywood, and other needed supplies have all increased in price substantially over the last year, and sources say they'll continue to rise. Opting to replace your roof now means you lock in the current price of materials instead of taking the gamble and paying twice as much for your roof in the months to come.

• Hurricane season is still happening. If your roof is aged and weakening, it might not be ready to stand up to one of Florida's storms. If a hurricane comes our way this season, and you opted to put off your roof replacement, you could end up with major damage that necessitates a full replacement immediately. Unfortunately, the two factors above could make that a difficult and expensive process, adding more pressure to an already stressful situation. Being proactive and replacing now means you're more likely to make it through any storms unscathed.

EZ Roofing Systems is Polk County's trusted roofing company, with years of experience serving our community. We operate with honesty and integrity, which is why we want you to be aware of what's happening in the industry and make sure we help you plan accordingly to protect your home. Our affordable inspections make sure you're aware of issues before they become BIG problems, and when it's time for a repair or replacement, you know to call us first for the best in customer care and quality workmanship. Call for your FREE estimate!

Central Florida doesn’t usually experience cold weather, and that leaves all of us scrambling when the temps drop. Finding jackets, hats, boots, blankets, and the button for the heater are all rare needs for Florida residents, and can be a bit of a hassle when you’re not accustomed to having them as part of your routine! It’s important to note that cool temperatures aren’t just unusual for people…critters feel the cold too, and that can leave some of them running directly for YOUR home to find shelter. While this isn’t a problem if the animal in question is your dog or cat, but what about other creatures that try to take advantage of the warm spaces in and around your home?

Roof Rats are one such creature. Also known as Palm Rats, Black Rats, Ship Rats, or House Rats, they are pretty much what you’d picture when you hear the word “rat” and aren’t exactly the cute, furry friend you want to find in your attic or garage. Not only are they a nuisance, disease-carrying species, but they are one of the leading rodent pests in Florida, and cause thousands of dollars worth of damage to people's homes each year. How?

Well, first you have to understand a little about the lifestyle of this rat. Unlike some of their relatives who prefer ground-level living, or even below ground hiding places (like sewers), roof rats prefer to spend their days up in the trees, hence the name "Palm Rats". Fruit is their primary food source, and since Florida is plentiful in fruits of all kinds, they rarely go hungry. Because of this, they are a year-round problem here in the greater Polk County area, with our own nearby city of Tampa being named as one of the top cities in the US with roof rat infestations in recent years. While they’re usually content to hang out in the trees and only use your roof as a bridge to get from one high point to another, they can, and do, sneak into people’s homes frequently. Whether for nesting or hiding purposes, or for warmth in cooler temperatures, they can accomplish an expensive amount of destruction in a short amount of time.

So, what should you expect when it comes to roof rat damage, and how can you protect yourself? Roof rats can fit through very small spaces, sometimes as small as 1/2 inch diameter (depending on the size of the rat of course). This means they can sneak into pipes, ducts that vent outdoors, or poorly sealed areas. Once in, they’re skilled in destroying HVAC ductwork, wires, cables, and insulation in the process. If they can't find a pre-existing space to fit through and gain access to your home, they can chew their way in, leaving your roof vulnerable to the elements and presenting secondary issues like water damage, further infestation of other pests, etc. Once you have roof rats, getting rid of them is a costly and lengthy process, requiring the help of professionals in most cases, so prevention is best. The best way to prevent roof rats is by taking the following measures:

1. Keep all trees and shrubs trimmed back away from the perimeter of your home. Trees with branches extending over, or nearly touching, your roofline are the primary way that rats (and other creatures) gain access to your roof. Take away their opportunity!

2. Stay vigilant when you are in your attic. Watch for any signs of things being amiss, such as rodent feces, insulation being strewn in places it doesn't belong, items in your attic being chewed, and so forth. By catching signs of activity early, you can potentially get help before the infestation becomes severe.

3. Invest in routine roof inspections by a professional. Semi-annually, or at the very least, annually, invest in a thorough roof inspection by a local professional. Roofing contractors will know exactly what to look for, and can spot the telltale signs of rodent activity that others would miss. They can help you formulate a plan of action if they do find evidence of roof rats, and can help repair damage caused by the unwelcome pests, so you don't end up with expensive secondary damage.

These cool temperatures are the perfect time to call for a roof inspection. Not only will your roofer thank you (those shingles are HOT during the summer!) but you’ll also have a better chance of catching rodent damage before it becomes severe and/or has time to lead to further damage inside your roof. If we see any signs of rodent activity, we will alert you immediately, so you can get your pest control team on site and on top of the issue as soon as possible. We will also thoroughly examine your roof for any potential entrance points, any existing damage, and any areas of concern that need attention. Once we give you a detailed report of our findings, we discuss available options and work with you to come to the best solution for your home and your situation. Our expert team of roofing contractors have a reputation of reliability and honesty. We make roof replacements and repairs “EZ” every time!

Halloween is just a couple of weeks away. Kids (and adults) are picking out the perfect costume and preparing for lots of fun, and PLENTY of candy. While some families will still be participating in traditional trick-or-treating in nearby neighborhoods, other families here in Polk County might not yet feel comfortable going out in droves to take part. What's more, there are children and adults in our community who have never been able to participate in a traditional way (even before the pandemic) due to limiting factors like varying physical abilities, food allergies, or difficulty going out at the traditional time on Halloween. Perhaps more than ever before, we could all use the fun and magic that comes with a holiday, and making sure everyone in our community can participate matters to us! Here are three ways you can make Halloween more inclusive this year, both for your family and for those around you:

Offer allergy-friendly treats. Having a separate bucket of stickers or small trinkets and toys is a great way to provide an alternative option for kids who have allergies or are too young to enjoy typical candies and sweets. Often, allergy-friendly treats are differentiated with a teal bucket, but if you don't have one, just put a label out (or tell people yourself if you're present!) so parents will know how to help their child choose best.

Make your setup accessible for everyone. If trick-or-treaters must make it up your driveway, over uneven pavers, up stairs, etc. to get to the treats on Halloween, it doesn't make it easy for ghosts or goblins who might be limited by walking difficulty or being wheelchair bound. If you set up a candy station at the end of your driveway or walkway, you make sure ALL spooky visitors can get to the goods, which they (and their families!) will appreciate.

Consider BOOing your neighbors! If you know there are families in your neighborhood who can't trick or treat in the traditional way because of health risks or work schedules, you could bring a big smile to their face by BOOing them...in the nicest way possible of course! Pack up a basket with fun Halloween treats, a spooky craft, and/or some fun activities like bubbles or sidewalk chalk, and leave it on their doorstep with a note letting them know they had a ghostly visitor to bring a little holiday fun. Anonymous or not, you can feel good knowing you spread some happiness!

EZ Roofing Systems is excited to see Winter Haven come out in full force to celebrate a fun holiday AND celebrate our neighbors this Halloween. Community matters to us, and that’s why we are proud to provide quality service with respect and integrity at the core of our business. We believe in treating each client as a neighbor, making sure they feel confident that we have their best interest at heart, and will provide a fair quote, solid work, and reliable customer service. We make choosing a roofer in Central Florida “EZ” when a repair comes your way. Give us a call!

When you think about a roof leak, you probably think of water staining on the ceiling, water dripping onto the floor below, and the classic "metal bucket" catching water from the cartoons of old. However, when your roof springs a leak it can affect areas FAR worse than the ceiling, costing you large amounts of money and (sometimes) requiring extensive remodeling work for your home. When you're tempted to skip your routine roof inspection, or put off the suggested repairs by your roofer, remember:

• A roof leak can damage your HVAC system. Many times, Florida home builders put the air handler for the AC system in the attic, since we don't often have basements and the attic is out of the way (and hidden). Because of this, the heart of your AC system could be at risk if your roof starts leaking. Your first sign would likely be your system shorting out, and it's no fun being left with no AC AND a leaking roof. What's more, water damage to your AC unit may or may not be repairable, and you could be facing a whole new system installation. That's a lot of $$$ for one little leak.

• Roof leaks can travel into the walls. Your first noticeable water accumulation might not actually be on the ceiling if your roof starts leaking. If the leak is occurring above a major wall, you could actually end up with damage to flooring or carpet, drywall, trim, and more. Even worse, many times by the time it's noticeable, the damage is done. You could likely have damage to your wall studs, mold growth, and more. The cost of replacement and remediation of these issues is far beyond what the roof repair would have cost initially.

• Damage to irreplaceable items. Let's face it, your attic often holds precious items. Heirloom pieces, holiday decor passed down from childhood, tokens and trinkets from your own children, and more. If your roof leaks, these items will be hit first, and that's something your insurance policy can't replace. Protecting your possessions starts by protecting your home and your roof.

EZ Roofing Systems provides top-quality roof inspection, repair, and replacement to communities throughout Central Florida. With years of experience, a fully licensed and insured team, and a brand built on integrity and respect for our customers, we're your go-to when it's time to take care of your roof. Call us to schedule your estimate!

As we have closed out the month of May and welcomed June, it's pretty much assumed at this point that we are officially in "summer" mode. In Florida, that means more than the end of school and planning for vacations...it also means hurricane season, routine thunderstorms, and HEAT. This can take a toll on your roof over time, and if you've skipped having routine inspections done in the past, now is the time to make up for it.

How exactly can summer put your roof at risk?

• Hurricanes. June 1st marked the kickoff of hurricane season 2021, and while there are no storms on the radar right now, we all know that can change in a matter of days. Hurricanes bring an incredible amount of rain, and in more serious cases, strong winds. These two elements alone can be detrimental to your roof even if it's in good shape, but if there are any weak spots or existing damage, even one minor hurricane could prove catastrophic. Things to watch for include loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing or roof vents, and clogged gutters if your home has them. Unfortunately, other issues that could leave your roof compromised can't be seen with the naked eye from the ground. That's why annual roof inspections or vital to protecting your home. Spots that are aging, or damage going on beneath the shingles, will be caught early and repaired before it has a chance to be a bigger (and more expensive) problem.

• Thunderstorms. Florida is known for its afternoon thunderstorms during the summer months. The lightning is impressive, but the RAIN is what really stands out. It can go from sunny to monsoon in a matter of seconds, and when your roof has to stand up to that heavy rain day after day for months, it can lead to leaks. What's more, the continued exposure to water can harbor moisture and condensation (including your attic!) and that can lead to the decay of wood and roof materials over time. Again, roof inspections are the best way to combat these problems, as professionals check for hidden moisture or weak areas that you might not see on your own.

• Heat. The Sunshine State got its name for a reason. The sun is intense, and our summers are hot. The extreme temperatures take a toll on your roof after a while. Shingles break down more quickly in Florida, and a roof that should last 30 years might only make it to 15. Taking measures to extend the life of your roof saves you money in the long run, and also protects your home (and your home's insurance policy) when bad weather does come your way. When it is time to replace your roof, hiring a roofing contractor that has your best interests at heart and runs and honest, ethical business, is key. You need someone who will help you choose the best materials for the job, and is experienced with Florida's conditions, so you will get the maximum number of years out of your new roof.

  EZ Roofing Systems is proud to serve the greater Polk County community with the very best in customer care and quality service. We provide roof inspections, repair services, and full replacement options for homes of all sizes and styles. We put your needs first, giving you an honest and accurate report, and working with you to find the best solution for our needs and your budget. Give us a call to schedule your inspection and to receive a detailed estimate for your roof.

Hurricane season has officially kicked off here in Florida, and with Cristobal leaving remnants of rain and humidity here in Polk County, we are all reminded that a hit from a storm of our own could be lurking around the corner. When it comes to preparing for hurricanes, many Florida residents focus on stocking up on supplies, purchasing shutters for doors and windows, and making sure their generator is up and running. Protecting your home from damage is another important aspect of preparation though, and if you don't know the threats to watch out for, your roof could pay the price. 

Hurricanes are a unique challenge for your roof with their heavy, sustained winds, and torrential rain. When you add in debris, you could end up with major damage from even a "minor" hurricane. Keep these things in mind when you are preparing this year: 

Remove all debris from around your home.

That harmless pile of stakes from your fence project, or your row of flower pots lined up along the back wall of your home could turn into missiles during hurricane-force winds. Once of these objects when picked up and hurled at your roof could not only damage the surface roofing, but could end up penetrating your home and causing water leaks and extensive damage. When you know a storm is coming, bring everything you can inside. Make an effort to keep your property clear of most debris even when a storm isn't on the horizon, so you won't be scrambling when the clouds start to gather. 

Look up. 

Are your trees looking like something prehistoric? While large, mature trees are a blessing for their shade and their erosion control, they can be dangerous when it comes to storms if they aren't properly maintained. Have your older, mature trees evaluated routinely by professionals and invest in having limbs and dead wood removed as needed. This will not only keep your tree healthier, but will make it less likely to send deadly branches onto your roof during a storm. If the tree shows signs of sickness, it's time to have it removed. A direct hit from a fallen tree will not only destroy your roof, but likely your house underneath as well. 

Have water management in place. 

We know most Florida homes in residential neighborhoods aren't built with gutters nowadays, but that doesn't mean you don't need them! A good drainage and water management system is key to protecting your roof and your home, especially during heavy rain like that seen during hurricanes and tropical systems. Gutters, french drains, and plenty of healthy grass are great ways to keep your roof and the land around your home draining well and free from water retention. 

The best preparation for your roof is routine inspection. Before you are facing down a major storm system, having professionals at EZ Roofing Systems evaluate your roof's condition and make repairs as needed is a smart way to make your roof last longer. If a replacement is needed, they can help you plan for it carefully to make it as seamless as possible. When it comes to roofing in Florida, we make it EZ! 

When it's time to hire a roofer for your home, the options are usually plentiful. From the local handyman down the street, to the commercialized, big-box store roofing "professionals", you can find people willing to hop up onto your roof and replace shingles, repair wood rot, or offer a full replacement in some cases...but does that mean they're the best choice?

Obviously, there are factors to be considered when hiring a roofer that can greatly impact the job at hand. While we understand that cost is a big factor for the homeowner, going with the cheapest guy available usually means you'll end up with sub-par work, potential insurance issues down the road when that repair or replacement starts leaking, and likely, a bad experience all the way around. However, the most expensive roofer isn't always the top choice either. In reality, more than cost, there are two big requirements to look at when you hire a roofer: licensure and experience.

A licensed roofer is one you can trust, since they have been made to pass a myriad of different criteria before acquiring that licensure. Additionally, a listened roofer is usually an insured roofer (the two often go hand in hand) which protects you and your home from damages and/or injuries of the roofer and his team. Licensure alone though doesn't necessarily guarantee a great outcome. A brand new roofer can receive his license, but if you have a particularly tough roofing issue to tackle, he might be a little off put by it and have a hard time coming up with the best solution. That's where experience comes in. An experienced roofing provider has a wide variety of clients backing him or her up, and can offer you a list of references from previous customers. These references not only give you a glimpse of the customer service provided by the roofing contractor, but also give you an idea of what types of jobs he or she has handled in the past. The more experience, the better.

EZ Roofing Systems is proud to be both licensed and insured here in Florida (CCC1328107), and with years of experience under our belts, we are able to provide comprehensive roofing services to the greater Polk County area. When it's time for a roof replacement, or when a leak comes your way, Bob the Roofer is the one to call first. We make your roof problems just a little bit "EZ"er.

Summers in Florida are known to be hot, but the temps don't necessarily fall off once that calendar switches seasons. Our year-round warm weather and excessive sunshine means we deal with some unique issues that our northern neighbors probably don't face, including the astronomical costs of running your AC year round and trying to keep your home at least moderately comfortable. While keeping your HVAC system in good shape and investing in routine repairs and maintenance is important, your house itself can actually play a big part in temperature control as well.

Try investing some thought into these options if you're struggling to keep your home cool (while staying within your budget) this year:

• Insulate! Insulation is a big part of keeping your home's temperature steady. In cooler weather, that means it's job is to keep heat in, but during the warm months (or all year long here in our area) it helps keep hot air out. Doing this so your AC won't be competing with the high outdoor temperatures creeping in and minimizing the cool air it's working hard to produce. If you're building a home, consider putting the money in for additional insulation (your contractor can help you with this) but if you're in an older home, you have options too! Professionals can spray foam insulation into existing walls, and can help you improve your home's temp management without ripping apart your home's interior.

• Watch those windows. In this case, it's a GOOD thing to throw shade...as long as it's at your windows. Sunlight translates to heat, and that is coming into your home for hours each day. While natural light is a good thing, direct light streaming into your home could be doing more harm than good. Watch the pattern of when the sun is hitting certain windows directly, and take time to close your blinds during those times so you're minimizing the heat transfer into your house. Even better? Purchasing light and heat blocking curtains can lower overall temps in your home, so your AC unit will be working less (and saving you $$$).

• Get a cool roof. No, we aren't talking about style (although, we do recommend keeping up curb appeal by choosing your roofing materials wisely). We literally mean a cool roof, aka, one designed to reflect heat and keep your home's interior cooler during the day. On average your roof's temperature can be 50-90 degrees hotter than the air around it! Imagine that heat working its way into your home. New "cool" roof options that use materials like reflective paint, reflective sheeting, or even specialized shingles are a great way to keep your home's temp comfortable and your energy costs lower.

EZ Roofing Systems can help you with that! If you have questions about upgrades for your home's roof, are facing a roof replacement, or simply need routine inspections and occasional repairs, we're Winter Haven's choice! We serve the greater Polk County area with quality customer service and are licensed and insured so you know you're protected and can trust us to give you the very best in the business. Give us a cal!

Residents in Central Florida celebrate many of the same seasons and holidays that our northern counterparts do, albeit with some minor modifications (like wearing flip-flops to Christmas dinner.) However, there is one season that is pretty much limited to seaside residents, especially Floridians since our beloved Sunshine State is surrounded by water on three sides. 

Any idea what season we're taking about? 

Yep, it's hurricane season. Hurricane season typically runs from June 1st to November 30th. While these dates aren't absolute, they are a pretty accurate estimate of when hurricanes typically roll through the Atlantic and/or into the Gulf. Preparing your home, and yourself, for a hurricane is wise if you live near the water, and even if you don't! We all learned from last year's Hurricane Irma that even Polk County is at risk of severe damage from hurricanes, regardless of our central, inland position. Failing to prepare results in hardships for you and your family, and can have extensive consequences. So, how do you prepare for potential storms that might hit us this season? 

1. Review Your Insurance (and/or Your Lease)

If you rent your home, or live in an apartment-type situation, you need to take a close look at your lease for any hurricane-related details and provisions. If you have personal property damage due to a hurricane, and are assuming your landlord's insurance will cover it, you could be left out in the rain (literally and figuratively!). Make sure you ask questions, and are fully aware of what is/is not taken care of in the event of a natural disaster. 

If you own your own home, you need to review your insurance policy closely, and do a thorough look through the hurricane portion of your coverage plan. Additional policies can be added on to cover your home and property, but might not be necessary based on your main insurance policy. Speak with your insurance advisor and make sure you are ready for whatever comes your way. 

2. Batten Down the Hatches (Prepare Your House!)

There are a few things you can do to give your home a helping hand in withstanding a hurricane or any other strong storm. This includes: 

• Take down any decor that could be blown away in a storm, such as flags, lawn decor, outdoor furniture, etc. Large items (like trampolines) should be taken down if possible, but if not, they need to be anchored and secured. 
• Check your shingles. This seems like a minor detail, but shingles are often not secured down in such a way to stand up to hurricane-force winds. If you notice loose edges, shingles that have already come loose, etc., you need to call us ASAP!
• Secure windows and other glass panes (like french doors) with wind-resistant shutters. Basic plywood also works for this. Make sure that whatever you choose, whether shutters or plywood, is strong enough and secure enough to resist not only the wind, but also flying debris. You can test this by leaning against them and seeing if they "give" at all. If so, they won't be strong enough to hold up. 
• Secure additional openings that are considered "weak points" such as doors, garage doors, etc. Garage doors usually have a "lock" on each side, and fastening these can give some extra support against the wind. If you really want to keep them standing strong, you can reinforce them with wood planks much like the rest of the windows and doors of your house.  

3. Protect and Prepare Yourself 

Protecting yourself, and making sure you're taken care of, during a hurricane is just as important as your home! Make sure you...

• Follow any evacuation orders that are issued. Don't ignore the warnings of danger! 
• Stockpile for the storm if you're not evacuating. This means keeping enough water on hand for several days (for each person in your family) in addition to non-perishable food and other basic necessities of your family (medications, diapers, wipes, etc.).
• Fill up your bathtub with water before the storm is due to hit. In the event that you lose water, this gives you a supply of water for flushing toilets, and other tasks that would waste your clean drinking water. 
• Have plenty of lanterns and batteries, or candles, on hand. 
• If you have a grill, or a camp stove, make sure they are ready and in working order (and that your propane tank is full!). These can be invaluable in the event that you lose power for several days and need to cook food to keep it from spoiling in the freezer or fridge. 

4. Know what to do during the actual storm! 

Obviously, you should STAY INSIDE, but you should also avoid going near windows and doors during the actual storm itself. In the event that one did break, or fly open, you could be in its path and that could be deadly with the amount of force caused by the wind gusts. Additionally, close as many doors in your home as possible. It sounds silly, but even interior doors can help stabilize your home. The more you can "break up" any wind that makes it into your home, the harder it is for the gust to blow through completely and take off your roof. Your best bet is to find the most interior room in your home that has few or no windows to the outside, and hunker down until the worst of the storm is over with your flashlights, your phone, and your radio. 

Of course, the best way to prepare your house for a hurricane is having a thorough check done before we have any storms on the radar. Roof inspections check multiple points on your home, from shingles and gutters, to structural supports and vents. We make sure your roof is up to standard, and ready to face whatever the crazy Florida weather might throw its way. EZ Roofing Systems is proud to serve the Winter Haven area with these options and more, and we work with you before AND after hurricanes and major storms to keep your home at its best. Give us a call to make your appointment! 

It goes without saying that a roof is a very important part of your home. In fact, your house wouldn't even BE a home without a roof overhead, since it offers shelter, protection from elements, insulation from the heat or cold weather, and basically, it just tops off your home (pun intended). Here in Central Florida, those aspects are key, since we have extreme heat and excessive sunshine, and we also endure heavy storms and rain during the summer months. Add in the threat of hurricanes and you see just how important a roof is for Florida homes, and how vital it is that homeowners maintain their roof and replace as needed to protect their investment in their house. 

Maintaining and replacing a roof though is not a wise DIY option. Roofing is not something you just pick up and learn as you go. An oversight, no matter how small, could result in major damage to your roof and long-term issues. Additionally, choosing a roofing expert affects your insurance, since using someone unqualified (including yourself) can mean loss of coverage, or failure to process a claim in the event of an accident or problem. 

So, how should you choose a roofer? 

Licensed and Insured.  This is, hands down, the most important part of choosing a roofer. Ask for those licensure numbers, and check them twice. If your roofer has the proper license and certifications, he or she will (usually) have the appropriate insurance as well, but it's always wise to check. These requirements protect you in the event that something goes wrong, or your roof has issues down the line. 

Experience. Much is learned through hands-on experience, and while a roofer who is new to the field can still do a great job, there is something reassuring about using a provider who has extensive experience. Look for a roofer who has been in business a long time, has experience in a variety of areas (not just maintenance for example, but also in roof repair and replacement), and is very well established in your community. 

Referrals.  Proof of the experience mentioned above comes through referrals. If they aren't provided up front, request referrals from your chosen rooferbefore you sign the deal and let him or her begin work on your home. Hearing from other customers firsthand lets you know what to watch out for with a particular roofing expert. Perhaps your prospective roofer does high quality work, offers great pricing, but is a little slow on the billing and paperwork side of things, or maybe they have crisp, efficient billing and work methods, but their personal demeanor is distinct and doesn't mesh well with everyone. Hearing things like this from others who have used a particular roofer can help you make an informed decision that you can feel confident in. 

If you are local to the greater Winter Haven area here in Central Florida, EZ Roofing Systems is here to help with any and all of your roofing needs. We are fully licensed and insured, have years of experience in our field, and are well-established in the Polk County community and beyond. We offer routine maintenance, repair services, and full roof replacement, so no matter your need, we're ready for it. Give us a call, and we'll personally come out and inspect your situation so we can give you a full and accurate quote. We make the whole process "EZ!"