Ladder Up: July Edition

June was another active month of hail. While some storms were severe, numerous “pop-up” storms impacted small towns. Texas alone had 51 instances of hail while Nebraska didn’t trail far behind, having 46 instances. June is technically the final month of hail season. Last year, hail continued to fall for much of the remaining year. Just in July, there were 17 days of hail.

Do we think it will hail more this year? All indicators point to yes! The weather all over the country is also starting to heat up. We saw a short heat wave in June, but weather outlets are predicting very warm weather as we move into the end of July, which will undoubtedly lead to stronger storms should all the environmental factors be present. Our team will be keeping an eye out and responding to all major hailstorms that may happen between now and the end of the year.

While the tropics continue to be “quiet,” we did have Tropical Storm Chantal make landfall on July 6 near Litchfield Beach, South Carolina. It had max sustained windspeeds of 60 mph that quickly decreased to 35 mph once it hit land. Large amounts of rain impacted northern South Carolina and southeastern North Carolina. Flooding was a major factor, and there are many images of stranded cars with water above their tire wells.

In comparison, last year at this time we had only had three storms, but hurricane Beryl was one of them. While the impacts have been felt from the 2025 storms, we have yet to see a storm with as much intensity as Beryl. As we continue to closely monitor the tropics, be sure you know how to read a tropical cyclone advisory from the National Hurricane Center, as they have important information about each formed storm.

When your commercial building is located near the coast, your roof isn’t just a structural necessity — it’s your first line of defense against hail, high winds, heavy rain and even hurricanes. Choosing the right roofing system for your coastal property can mean the difference between peace of mind and costly storm damage.

Here’s a breakdown of the top-performing roofing options for coastal commercial buildings:

1. Metal Roofing (Standing Seam)

Metal roofing, specifically standing seam systems, is a favorite for coastal businesses that want long-term durability and clean, modern aesthetics. These roofs are engineered to withstand hurricane-force winds and can be coated with corrosion-resistant finishes to stand up to salty air. With a lifespan of 25 years or more, a properly installed metal roof offers one of the best returns on investment in storm-prone areas.

2. PVC Single-Ply Roofing

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a highly durable, flexible membrane ideal for flat and low-slope roofs. What makes it especially great for coastal properties is its resistance to moisture, chemicals and salt, along with heat-welded seams that offer superior waterproofing. It’s also energy-efficient, reflecting sunlight to help reduce cooling costs, which is a big bonus in warmer coastal climates.

3. TPO Roofing

TPO (thermoplastic polyolefin) is another single-ply option that’s cost-effective and durable. While it shares many of the same benefits as PVC, including UV resistance and reflective properties, it’s generally more budget-friendly. Reinforced TPO systems can meet coastal wind uplift codes, though they may not be as resilient in extremely salty environments without the right additives or coatings.

4. Modified Bitumen Systems

For buildings that demand multi-layer protection, modified bitumen roofing is a solid option. These asphalt-based systems can be layered with waterproof coatings that resist UV damage and moisture. With proper installation and wind-rated reinforcements, modified bitumen can hold up well under coastal weather conditions, especially when paired with protective surfacing.

Don’t Forget: Installation Matters

The best roofing material can only go so far without proper installation. In coastal zones, it’s critical that your roof system:

• Meets or exceeds wind uplift ratings (look for systems rated FM 1-90 or higher).
• Uses corrosion-resistant fasteners and edge metal.
• Is installed by an experienced contractor who understands the unique demands of coastal roofing.

Need help deciding what system is best for your building?

We specialize in storm-ready commercial roof replacements and can help you choose the right system for your location and budget. Contact us today for a consultation before the next storm rolls in.

As hurricane season ramps up, understanding what fuels these powerful storms can help building owners and managers better prepare for potential impacts, especially when it comes to protecting their properties and commercial roofs. So what makes one hurricane a minor disturbance and another a devastating force? It all comes down to a mix of environmental factors that influence how strong a hurricane can become.

1. Warm Ocean Water

Hurricanes draw their energy from the ocean, and water temperatures of at least 80°F (26.5°C) are the key ingredient for tropical storm development. The warmer the water and the deeper that warmth goes, the more fuel the storm has to strengthen. That’s why hurricanes often intensify quickly over the Gulf of America or Caribbean, where sea surface temperatures are typically high.

2. Low Wind Shear

Wind shear refers to changes in wind speed or direction at different altitudes. When wind shear is low, a storm can build vertically and maintain a stable structure. On the flip side, high wind shear can tear apart a hurricane before it has a chance to grow. This is why forecasters keep a close eye on wind conditions throughout the Atlantic basin.

3. Moist Air in the Atmosphere

A humid atmosphere, especially in the mid-to-upper levels, helps fuel the thunderstorm activity that drives a hurricane’s core. Dry air acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture and weakening storm clouds. Moisture-rich air, however, supports stronger convection and heavier rainfall.

4. The Coriolis Effect

The Coriolis effect, caused by the Earth’s rotation, is what helps a tropical storm start spinning and organize into a cyclone. Without this natural rotation assist, hurricanes can’t form. That’s why these storms never develop near the equator, where the Coriolis effect is too weak to help. This effect is what makes hurricanes in the Northern Hemisphere rotate counterclockwise.

5. A Pre-Existing Weather Disturbance

Every hurricane starts from something: a tropical wave, a cluster of thunderstorms or a disturbance in the atmosphere. These systems act like the seed that, under the right conditions, can grow into a full-blown storm.

6. High Pressure Aloft

A high-pressure system in the upper atmosphere can act like a ventilation system for a hurricane. It helps push air out of the top of the storm, allowing more air (and moisture) to rise from the surface. This flow supports a stronger, more organized system capable of rapid intensification.

Why This Matters for Commercial Property Owners

When environmental conditions are just right, a storm can intensify in a matter of hours, leaving little time to react. That’s why commercial property owners must be proactive during hurricane season. Reinforcing your roof, inspecting drainage systems and having a disaster plan in place can go a long way in minimizing damage.

If your commercial building experiences roof damage after a hurricane or major storm, don’t wait. We specialize in emergency commercial roof repairs and can quickly assess damage, work with your insurance and protect your property from further loss. Our team is ready to respond when storms strike so your business can stay protected and recover faster.

Contact us today to get on our priority response list for storm season.

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