When storms accompanied by high winds head your way, you may be concerned about your aging roof. According to Daniel Osbourne, roofing expert with MyJobQuote.co.uk, there are several steps you can take in advance to help protect your roof during severe weather. Consider the following steps:

Take care of seasonal maintenance. The best way to protect your roof from strong winds is to keep it in good condition year-round. A poorly maintained roof may be letting water in, which can rot timbers and weaken your roof's structure, making it vulnerable during high winds. Be sure to repair loose shingles, remove heavy moss growth and clear out gutters every six months. 

Arrange an inspection. According to Osbourne, getting your roof inspected at least once a year will prevent problems and weaknesses from going unnoticed and will give you confidence that your roof is in good shape to weather winter storms. If your home is in an exposed location, such as on the coast, it’s wise to get it inspected every six months.

Remove overhanging branches. Weakened or dying trees and large branches often come down in storms, and they pose a big risk when hanging over your home. Cut back overhanging branches and get large trees inspected regularly, as diseased trees are more likely to fall down than healthy ones.

Install fascia boards and soffits. Fascia boards fit along the edge of the roof, and soffits fit on the underside of the overhang. Both of these can be used to shield your roof's edges from the worst of the weather. They prevent moisture from weakening the timbers and stop strong winds from lifting tiles.

Secure aerials and dishes. Once an aerial or satellite dish has been installed, it’s easy to forget about it. But often left on a roof for decades, these devices are exposed to the elements causing fixtures to rust, which means they could be dislodged during windy weather. If you’re no longer using your aerial or dish, it might be worth getting it removed. However, if you are still using it, ask your roofer to check it’s still secure when they inspect the roof.

Check the chimney. Chimneys are particularly vulnerable to strong winds and can cause a lot of damage if they come down. That’s why it’s important to pay particular attention to your chimney when you’re carrying out roof maintenance. Look for signs of movement and weathering, such as cracks in the mortar, and weeds growing out of the top. Even if your chimney looks fine, repointing it and getting it lined can help to bolster its strength. Keeping up with maintenance and making upgrades where necessary, can help ensure that your roof is ready to weather any strom and offer protection to your home and family.