Nashville Tornado Watch? How to Protect Your Roof and Windows Before and After
If you live in Nashville, you know tornado season isn’t just a possibility. It’s a yearly reality. And when that tornado watch alert shows up on your phone, it's not the time to start Googling how to protect your home. You want to know what to do before and after the storm to keep your roof, your windows, and your family safe.
Here’s your go-to guide to tornado prep and recovery, straight from the storm damage experts at White Buffalo Restoration.
What’s the Difference Between a Tornado Watch and Warning?
Let’s get the basics out of the way.
A tornado watch means the conditions are right for a tornado to form. Stay alert, check the forecast often, and be ready to act quickly.
A tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted or picked up by radar. It’s time to take cover immediately.
When a watch is issued, that’s your cue to start preparing—not panicking.
Before the Storm: Protecting Your Roof and Windows
1. Check Your Roof for Any Weak Spots
Your roof is your home’s first layer of defense. If it already has issues, strong winds will find them.
Take a walk around your home and look for missing shingles, loose flashing, or sagging spots. If anything looks questionable, call in a professional for a quick inspection.
Also, secure anything that could become airborne like patio furniture or yard tools. Those can do real damage if the wind picks up.
For older homes or homes in high-risk areas, you might also consider adding hurricane ties or roof clips for added stability.
2. Reinforce Your Windows
Most window damage during storms comes from flying debris. Even a small branch can crack or shatter glass.
Close all blinds and curtains to help contain broken glass if it happens. If you have storm shutters, get them up before the weather gets bad. No shutters? Plywood can work in a pinch.
If you’re really tight on time, tape an “X” across the windows using painter’s tape. It won’t prevent breakage, but it may help keep the glass from shattering everywhere.
Long-term, upgrading to impact-resistant windows can make a huge difference. That’s something worth thinking about if you live in areas like Antioch, East Nashville, or Bellevue.
During the Watch: Stay Ready
Move vehicles into a garage or away from trees if possible.
Charge your phone and backup battery packs.
Know your safe space. Ideally, that’s a windowless room or basement. If you don’t have a basement, choose an interior hallway or bathroom on the lowest level.
Keep flashlights, water, shoes, and a small first-aid kit nearby in case you need to take shelter quickly.
After the Storm: How to Check for Roof and Window Damage
Once the danger has passed and it’s safe to go outside, do a quick check around your property.
1. Look for Roof Damage
This includes missing shingles, bent flashing, or water stains on your ceilings. Also look out for limbs or debris on your roof. If you’re not comfortable getting up there, don’t. Call a licensed professional instead.
2. Inspect Your Windows
Even if they’re not shattered, check for cracks, broken seals, or moisture in between the panes. These issues may seem minor but can lead to drafts or leaks if ignored.
If a window is broken, don’t try to DIY a repair. A temporary board-up is fine in an emergency, but it’s important to get it properly fixed to avoid further damage.
White Buffalo Restoration can help with emergency boarding, leak detection, and full window replacements if needed.
Don’t Wait Too Long to Handle Repairs
Even small issues can snowball fast. A few missing shingles might seem like no big deal, but they can lead to roof leaks, mold, or even structural problems if left alone.
The same goes for window damage. Cracks or leaks can make your home less energy efficient and open to moisture or pests.
We recommend getting a professional storm damage inspection within 24 to 48 hours. Our team documents everything for your insurance and helps make the claims process less of a headache.
Why Nashville Trusts White Buffalo Restoration
We’re local. We get it. We’ve seen what tornadoes can do to homes in Middle Tennessee, and we know how to fix it right the first time.
Our team offers fast response, honest communication, and the kind of craftsmanship that holds up long after the clouds clear.
We serve Nashville, Hendersonville, Gallatin, Brentwood, and surrounding communities. Whether you need an emergency board-up or a full roof replacement, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s Get Your Home Storm-Ready
Tornadoes might be unpredictable, but your home’s protection doesn’t have to be. A little prep before the storm and a solid plan after it can make all the difference.
Need a roof inspection, window repair, or emergency help? Call us at (615) 442-6573 or contact us here to schedule a free assessment. We’re proud to serve homeowners across Hendersonville, Gallatin, Nashville, and the greater Middle Tennessee area.