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Re-roofing a residential property in Florida involves several steps, each tailored to the state's unique climate and building codes. Here's an overview our process:

1. Initial Assessment and Planning

  • Roof Inspection: We will first inspect the existing roof to assess its condition. Then check for damage, the number of existing layers, and structural integrity.

  • Permit Application: In Florida, re-roofing requires a permit from the local building department. We will submit the necessary documents, including plans and specifications, to obtain approval.

2. Material Selection

  • Choosing Roofing Materials: Homeowners select the type of roofing material they want to use. Common materials in Florida include asphalt shingles, metal, tile, and concrete. The choice often depends on budget, aesthetics, and durability.

  • Consideration of Climate: Florida’s climate, which includes high humidity, heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the potential for hurricanes, plays a significant role in material selection. For example, wind-resistant shingles or metal roofs are popular choices.

3. Removal of the Old Roof

  • Tear-Off: The existing roof is removed down to the decking. This step includes the removal of the roof covering, underlayment, and flashing. In some cases, if the existing roof has only one layer and is in relatively good condition, a new roof can be installed over the old one, but this is less common.

  • Debris Management: All debris from the old roof is collected and disposed of properly. We use dump trucks, dump trailers, and in some cases dumpsters to manage the waste

4. Roof Deck Inspection and Repairs

  • Inspecting the Deck: Once the old roofing materials are removed, the roof deck is inspected for any signs of damage, rot, or deterioration.

  • Making Necessary Repairs: Any damaged sections of the deck are repaired or replaced to ensure the roof’s structural integrity.

  • Re-nail the existing decking using 8d nails per building code.

5. Installing the Underlayment

  • Waterproofing Layer: A high-quality underlayment is installed over the roof deck. This layer provides an additional barrier against moisture and is particularly important in Florida’s wet climate.

  • Secondary Water Barrier: In high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ), such as South Florida, building codes often require a secondary water barrier, such as a peel-and-stick membrane, to provide extra protection against water intrusion.

6. Installing the New Roof

  • Laying Down the Roofing Material: The selected roofing material (e.g., shingles, tiles, metal panels) is installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and local building codes.

  • Flashing Installation: Flashing is installed around roof penetrations, such as chimneys, skylights, and vents, to prevent water from seeping into the home.

  • Ventilation: Proper roof ventilation systems, such as ridge vents or soffit vents, are installed to ensure adequate airflow and prevent moisture buildup, which is crucial in Florida's humid climate.

7. Final Inspection

  • Contractor’s Inspection: We will perform a thorough inspection to ensure that all aspects of the roof installation meet the required standards.

  • Building Department Inspection: A final inspection by the local building department is usually required to ensure the roof meets all code requirements, including wind resistance and waterproofing.

8. Cleanup and Disposal

  • Site Cleanup: The worksite is cleaned up, and any remaining debris is removed. This includes ensuring that no nails or other sharp objects are left behind.

  • Waste Disposal: All waste materials are properly disposed of, often in compliance with local regulations regarding construction debris.

9. Final Steps

  • Warranty Documentation: The homeowner receives warranty information for the new roof, including coverage for materials and workmanship.

  • Maintenance Recommendations: We provide maintenance tips to help prolong the life of the new roof, such as regular inspections and gutter cleaning.

10. Post-Installation Considerations

  • Insurance Update: Homeowners should notify their insurance company about the new roof installation, as it might qualify them for discounts or adjustments in coverage.

  • Hurricane Preparedness: In Florida, it's wise to consider how the new roof will hold up in hurricane conditions and take any additional steps to secure or reinforce the roof as needed.

Re-roofing in Florida requires careful consideration of local building codes, climate factors, and the use of materials designed to withstand the region’s unique environmental challenges. Call us today to schedule your estimate. 844-730-7663

Re-roofing a multifamily building is more complex than a residential re-roofing project due to differences in scale, logistics, and regulatory requirements. Here's how the process differs:

1. Scope and Scale

  • Residential Re-roofing: Typically involves a single-family home with a relatively small roof area. The project is usually straightforward, involving only the homeowner, a contractor, and possibly one or two subcontractors.

  • Multifamily Re-roofing: Involves larger buildings like apartment complexes, condos, or townhomes with multiple units. The roof area is significantly larger, requiring more materials, labor, and time. Coordination is more complex due to the number of stakeholders, including property managers, homeowners’ associations (HOAs), and multiple residents.

2. Permitting and Regulatory Compliance

  • Residential: The permitting process for a single-family home is generally simpler. The homeowner or contractor submits the necessary documents to the local building department, and inspections are usually straightforward.

  • Multifamily: Multifamily buildings may require more extensive permitting due to the larger scope. There could be additional inspections, especially in high-velocity hurricane zones (HVHZ) or areas with specific regulations for multi-unit dwellings. Compliance with fire codes, safety regulations, and noise ordinances may also be stricter.
    3. Logistics and Coordination

  • Residential: Coordination is relatively simple, usually involving just the homeowner and the contractor. Scheduling is straightforward, and the project can often be completed in a few days.

  • Multifamily: Coordination is much more complex, involving multiple parties, including property managers, HOAs, contractors, and potentially hundreds of residents. Communication is crucial to minimize disruption to the residents' daily lives. Scheduling often needs to consider access to individual units, and work may be phased to minimize disruption.

4. Material Handling and Storage

  • Residential: Material delivery and storage are usually uncomplicated, with materials stored on-site, either in the driveway or on the roof itself.

  • Multifamily: Due to the scale, larger quantities of materials are needed, which may require off-site storage or the use of multiple delivery points. Special equipment, like cranes or hoists, may be needed to move materials to the roof.

5. Resident Impact and Safety

  • Residential: The impact on the homeowner is generally minimal and temporary. Safety concerns are limited to the property itself, with relatively simple precautions needed.

  • Multifamily: Safety and minimizing disruption are paramount due to the number of residents. Contractors must ensure safe access to and from the building, secure work areas, and minimize noise and debris. Work may be scheduled during certain hours to avoid disrupting residents' routines, and communication about project timelines and safety procedures is essential.

6. Complexity of Roof Design

  • Residential: Roof designs are usually less complex, making the installation process more straightforward.

  • Multifamily: Roof designs can be more complicated, involving multiple slopes, different roofing materials, HVAC units, and other equipment. This complexity requires more detailed planning and specialized expertise.

7. Project Duration and Phasing

  • Residential: The re-roofing process typically takes a few days to a week, depending on the size of the house and weather conditions.

  • Multifamily: The project duration is significantly longer due to the larger scope. To reduce disruption, the work is often completed in phases, particularly if the building is occupied. Each phase may require coordination with residents to ensure access to certain areas while work is ongoing.

8. Budget and Financing

  • Residential: The homeowner usually finances the project directly, and the budget is relatively modest, depending on the size of the home and the materials chosen.

  • Multifamily: Budgeting and financing are more complex, often involving multiple stakeholders, such as property management companies, HOAs, or even residents contributing to a shared fund. The budget must account for a larger scope of work, including contingencies for unforeseen issues.

9. Communication and Documentation

  • Residential: Communication is typically between the contractor and the homeowner, with relatively simple documentation requirements.

  • Multifamily: Communication must be clear and frequent, involving multiple parties. Detailed documentation is essential, including work schedules, safety plans, and regular updates to all stakeholders. Effective communication plans are crucial to managing expectations and keeping the project on track.

10. Post-Installation Considerations

  • Residential: Once the roof is installed, final inspections are conducted, and the homeowner is informed of maintenance requirements and warranty details.

  • Multifamily: After installation, there may be additional inspections due to the building's size and occupancy. Ongoing maintenance plans may need to be more detailed, involving regular inspections and communication with all residents about warranty coverage and responsibilities.

In summary, while the basic steps of re-roofing are similar for both residential and multifamily projects, the latter requires more extensive planning, coordination, and resources to handle the larger scale, regulatory requirements, and the need to minimize disruption to a larger number of people. Call us today to schedule your estimate. 844-730-7663

Replacing a commercial roof is a significant undertaking that requires careful planning, skilled execution, and adherence to industry standards and local regulations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the best practices for replacing a commercial roof:

1. Initial Assessment and Planning

  • Roof Inspection: A thorough inspection is essential to evaluate the current condition of the roof. This includes identifying existing issues like leaks, structural damage, and the condition of the insulation and decking. This assessment helps determine whether a full replacement is necessary or if repairs can suffice.

  • Consultation with a Professional: We will discuss options, materials, and costs. We will help guide the decision-making process, ensuring the chosen solution meets the building's needs and budget.

  • Budgeting and Financing: Develop a detailed budget that accounts for materials, labor, permits, and contingencies. Consider financing options if needed, as commercial roof replacements can be costly.

2. Material Selection

  • Choosing the Right Material: The selection of roofing material depends on factors such as the building’s structure, local climate, energy efficiency needs, and budget. Common commercial roofing materials include:

  • TPO (Thermoplastic Olefin): Popular for its durability, energy efficiency, and ease of installation.

  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Offers excellent chemical resistance and durability.

  • Modified Bitumen: Ideal for flat or low-slope roofs, providing good waterproofing.

  • Metal Roofing: Durable and long-lasting, often used in areas with extreme weather conditions.

  • Energy Efficiency Considerations: Consider materials that offer high reflectivity and insulation to reduce energy costs, especially in warmer climates.

3. Obtaining Permits and Compliance

  • Permit Application: Obtain the necessary permits from local building authorities. This step ensures that the project complies with local building codes, safety regulations, and zoning laws.

  • Code Compliance: Ensure the new roof meets all relevant building codes, including fire resistance, wind uplift standards, and energy efficiency requirements. Compliance with OSHA safety regulations during installation is also critical.

4. Project Planning and Scheduling

  • Develop a Detailed Plan: Create a project timeline that outlines each phase of the roof replacement, including material delivery, removal of the old roof, installation of the new roof, and final inspections.

  • Coordination: If the building will remain occupied during the replacement, coordinate with tenants or occupants to minimize disruption. This may involve scheduling work outside of business hours or phasing the project to allow continued use of the building.

5. Removal of the Old Roof

  • Tear-Off Process: The existing roof is removed down to the deck. This includes stripping away old materials such as membranes, insulation, and flashing. Proper disposal of debris is crucial, often requiring dumpsters or specialized waste management solutions.

  • Deck Inspection and Repairs: After removing the old roof, inspect the deck for any damage or rot. Repair or replace damaged sections to ensure a solid foundation for the new roof.

6. Installing the New Roof

  • Underlayment and Insulation: Install a high-quality underlayment or vapor barrier to protect against moisture. Proper insulation is also crucial for energy efficiency and can be installed above or below the deck, depending on the roof design.

  • Roof Membrane or Material Installation: The chosen roofing material is installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and industry standards. This step may involve welding, adhering, or mechanically fastening the material to the deck.

  • Flashing and Detailing: Install flashing around penetrations (vents, HVAC units, etc.) and along roof edges to prevent water infiltration. Detailing is critical to ensuring the roof’s long-term performance.

7. Quality Control and Inspections

  • In-Progress Inspections: Regular inspections during the installation process help ensure that the work is being performed correctly and according to plan.

  • Final Inspection: Once installation is complete, conduct a final inspection to verify that the roof meets all specifications and code requirements. This may involve a walkthrough with the contractor, building owner, and local building inspector.

8. Cleanup and Waste Disposal

  • Site Cleanup: Ensure that all debris and materials are properly cleaned up and disposed of. This includes removing any nails, old roofing materials, and ensuring that the site is safe and clean.

  • Final Waste Disposal: Arrange for the proper disposal of all waste materials in compliance with local regulations, which may include recycling certain materials.

9. Post-Installation

  • Warranty Documentation: Ensure that all warranties for materials and workmanship are provided and explained. This documentation is critical for future maintenance and in the event of any issues.

  • Maintenance Plan: Develop a maintenance plan that includes regular inspections, cleaning, and minor repairs to extend the life of the new roof. Scheduled maintenance can prevent small issues from becoming major problems.

10. Communication and Documentation

  • Detailed Reporting: Provide the building owner or manager with a detailed report of the work completed, including before-and-after photos, material specifications, and inspection results.

  • Occupant Communication: If the building was occupied during the project, communicate with tenants or occupants about the completion of the work and any post-installation considerations, such as safety protocols or access restrictions.

11. Energy Efficiency and Sustainability Considerations

  • Energy Audits: Conduct an energy audit to evaluate the effectiveness of the new roof in terms of insulation and energy savings. This can also help identify any additional improvements that could be made.

  • Sustainable Practices: Consider using sustainable or recyclable materials and practices to reduce the environmental impact of the roof replacement. Green roofing solutions, such as cool roofs or vegetative roofs, can also be considered for long-term sustainability.

Conclusion
Replacing a commercial roof requires meticulous planning, expert execution, and adherence to safety and building codes. By following these best practices, building owners and managers can ensure a successful project that provides long-term durability, energy efficiency, and value.

Installing a metal roof in Florida offers several advantages, making it a popular choice among homeowners and businesses in the region. Here are some key reasons why a metal roof is a great option in Florida:

1. Durability and Longevity

  • Resistance to Harsh Weather: Florida's climate is characterized by heavy rainfall, high humidity, strong winds, and the potential for hurricanes. Metal roofs are highly durable and can withstand these extreme conditions better than many other roofing materials. They are resistant to cracking, shrinking, and eroding, making them ideal for Florida's weather.

  • Long Lifespan: Metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years or more, significantly longer than traditional asphalt shingles, which typically last 20 to 30 years. This long lifespan can save you money on roof replacements over time.

2. Wind Resistance

  • Hurricane Protection: Florida is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, and metal roofs are known for their excellent wind resistance. Many metal roofing systems can withstand wind speeds of up to 140 mph or more, which meets or exceeds Florida's building code requirements for hurricane-prone areas.

  • Secure Fastening: Metal roofs are typically installed with interlocking panels and secure fasteners, which provide additional protection against wind uplift.

3. Energy Efficiency

  • Reflectivity: Metal roofs are highly reflective, meaning they reflect a significant portion of the sun's rays. This can help reduce heat absorption and keep your home cooler, especially during Florida's hot summers.

  • Cool Roof Options: Many metal roofs are designed with cool roof coatings that enhance reflectivity and emissivity, further reducing cooling costs. This energy efficiency can lead to significant savings on your air conditioning bills.

4. Fire Resistance

  • Non-Combustible Material: Metal roofs are non-combustible and have a Class A fire rating, the highest possible rating. This makes them an excellent choice for areas prone to wildfires or other fire hazards.

  • Safety: In addition to resisting fire from external sources, metal roofs do not catch fire from lightning strikes, which is a consideration in Florida's thunderstorm-prone areas.

5. Low Maintenance

  • Minimal Upkeep:Metal roofs require less maintenance than many other roofing materials. They are resistant to mold, mildew, and pests, which are common problems in Florida's humid climate.

  • Longevity of Appearance: Metal roofs maintain their appearance over time, resisting fading, chalking, and corrosion, especially when coated with protective finishes.

6. Environmental Benefits

  • Recyclability: Metal roofing materials are often made from recycled materials and are fully recyclable at the end of their life, making them an environmentally friendly option.

  • Sustainability: The long lifespan of metal roofs reduces the need for frequent replacements, which in turn reduces waste and the demand for new materials.

7. Aesthetic Appeal

  • Variety of Styles: Metal roofs come in a variety of styles, colors, and finishes, allowing you to achieve the desired look for your home or building. They can mimic the appearance of traditional roofing materials like shingles, tiles, or slate, while offering the benefits of metal.

  • Curb Appeal: A metal roof can enhance the curb appeal of your property, potentially increasing its value.

8. Insurance Benefits

  • Potential Discounts: Many insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for homes with metal roofs because of their durability and resistance to fire and wind damage. This can result in long-term savings on insurance costs.

9. Noise Control

  • Noise Reduction Features: While some people are concerned about noise from rain or hail on metal roofs, modern metal roofing systems are often installed with solid sheathing and insulation that reduce noise levels significantly.

Conclusion

Installing a metal roof in Florida is a smart investment due to its durability, energy efficiency, wind and fire resistance, and low maintenance needs. Its ability to withstand Florida's harsh climate while providing long-term savings and environmental benefits makes it an attractive choice for both residential and commercial properties.

Infrared (IR) imagery is a valuable tool in roof leak detection because it allows professionals to identify temperature variations that are often indicative of moisture intrusion. Here's how it works:
1. Principle of Operation

  • Thermal Differences:** Infrared cameras detect heat energy or thermal radiation emitted from objects. When moisture infiltrates a roof, it often causes temperature differences because wet areas retain heat longer than dry areas.

  • Thermal Imaging:** By scanning a roof with an infrared camera, inspectors can visualize these temperature variations. Wet areas will usually appear as warmer or cooler spots compared to the surrounding dry material, depending on the time of day and environmental conditions.

2. Process of Roof Inspection

  • Surveying the Roof: Inspectors conduct a survey of the roof, usually in the early evening or late afternoon when the roof is cooling down after exposure to sunlight. The cooling process causes wet areas to release heat more slowly, making them stand out in the infrared images.

  • Interpreting the Images: The infrared images reveal areas with potential moisture. These images are then analyzed to determine the exact location of leaks or areas of concern. The patterns in the thermal images help distinguish between normal temperature variations and those caused by moisture.

3. Advantages of Infrared Imaging in Roof Leak Detection

  • Non-Invasive: IR imaging is a non-destructive testing method. It allows for roof inspection without the need for physical intrusion, such as cutting or drilling.

  • Efficiency: It covers large areas quickly, making it a cost-effective solution for detecting leaks over expansive roof surfaces.

  • Early Detection: IR imagery can identify leaks before they become visible to the naked eye, preventing further damage and reducing repair costs.

4. Limitations

  • Weather Dependency: The effectiveness of IR imaging can be influenced by weather conditions. For example, rain or high humidity can interfere with the accuracy of the readings.

  • Surface Materials: Some roof materials might not show temperature differences as clearly, requiring more detailed analysis or supplementary methods to confirm leaks.

5. Application in Maintenance

  • Preventive Maintenance: Regular infrared inspections can help building owners and facility managers proactively address potential leak issues before they cause significant damage.

  • Documentation: IR images provide a visual record of roof conditions, which can be useful for insurance claims or maintenance planning.

In summary, infrared imagery is an effective and non-invasive method for detecting roof leaks, helping to locate moisture intrusion early and preventing costly damage.

An out of sight, out of mind approach to your roof maintenance needs is not recommended! You should maintain your roof as you would your car or even better your body. Routine maintenance should be performed on your roof at least once a year to prevent premature aging and accelerated deterioration. The majority of Roofing Systems are replaced prematurely due to the lack of Proactive Maintenance.

We provide Roof inspections and Certifications for Real Estate agents, Asset Management Companies, and their clients.

We use only the best Roof Coating Products. Properly installed roof coating systems can extend your roofing system life for up to 20 + years. This provides a great option to many property owners vs roof replacement.

A person with gloves on working on the roof of their home.

Other Information

What is Florida’s Building Code 25% Roof Replacement Rule?
There are a lot of misconceptions related to the 25% Florida’s Roof Replacement Rule. Therefore, we here at Coastal Roofing and Waterproofing want to help the homeowners understand this rule. Many Homeowners think that patching the roof will get them by. Or some homeowners have been told the insurance company will not pay for a re-roof.

The Roof Replacement Rule
All across the State of Florida, there is a unique code related to the replacement or recovering of certain sections of roofs and repairs of the existing rooftops which have been damaged because of any one of the following reasons: Trees, Fire, Severe winds, Thunderstorms, and Hail.

Before we move on, it is essential to point out that this code is specific to Florida only. The rule pertaining to the repairs, replacement, and recovering of roofs is stated in Chapter 7 (Alterations Level 1), Section 708.1.1 of the 5th Edition of the Existing Florida Building Code (2014). The section clearly mentions the rule as follows:

“Not more than 25% of the total roof area or roof section of any existing building or structure shall be repaired, replaced or recovered in any 12 month period unless the entire roofing system or roof section conforms to requirements of this code.”

Understanding the Code
So basically the rule means that if your roof coverings whether it is tile (ceramic, clay, etc.), asphalt shingles (organic or fiberglass), metallic, or any other coverings and their associated underlayment (felt, synthetic or any other waterproofing material) is damaged more than 25% of the total roof section due to any environmental conditions or any other reason, then as per the code, the homeowner is supposed to replace and remove the “damaged” covering as per the building code requirements.

However, if the damaged zone is less than 25% of the total roofing section, then you are not really required to replace the section. You can patch that area.

An important question arises at this point: what happens if you keep on patching the area within a single year and it exceeds 25% of the roof area?

The answer is simple. If such a condition occurs, you will have to re-roof the whole roof.

Hurricane Irma Denied Claims and Lowballed Claims. What Is a Homeowner To Do?

Hurricanes are terrifying and destructive storms that leave a costly wake of property damage. Unfair denials, mysterious delays, and underpayments are common issues for policyholders, and many are unaware that they have rights and can fight back against insurance companies acting in bad faith.

Every Homeowner that has damaged from a major hurricane is bound to face some challenges. Some homeowners have never submitted a major insurance claim, and they are often unprepared for some of problems that crop up.

One of the primary issues that we see deals with offers that are inadequate and don’t cover the true cost of the damages to a property. Receiving these kinds of “lowball” offers can be especially frustrating when someone has waited weeks or months for payment after a disaster, and some policyholders are tempted to take it and just move on. However, you should know that you may be able to negotiate with the insurance company for the full worth of your claim.

What to Do If You’ve Received a “Lowball” Offer for a Hurricane Insurance Claim?

If you have received a laughably low offer for your hurricane damages, you already know it’s no laughing matter. The difference between a “lowball” offer and the true worth of your claim can be significant. The best thing you can do to fight an unfair settlement offer and work toward a better resolution is hire a Licensed Contractor like Coastal Roofing & Waterproofing that has the experience with storm damage.

Understand what your insurance claim is worth;

If you don’t know how much your insurance coverage should cover, or if you haven’t included everything that the policy will cover, then you don’t know if what the insurance company offers you is off base. Make sure that you have gotten thorough assessments of all your hurricane damage, including potentially “hidden” damages that can cause issues later on. Remember, too, that your coverage may not be limited to just the costs of structural damage. You also may be able to seek reimbursement of some of the costs of relocation, temporary repairs, business interruption, and more.

Don’t accept the first offer from your insurance company;

You don’t have to accept the first settlement offer you receive from the insurance company. You should know that the first settlement from the insurance company is often lower than it should be. Sometimes, the offer is too low because there has been error or something was overlooked. However, some insurance companies also routinely offer less with the initial settlement in hopes of saving their own bottom lines. Before jumping to accept the first offer from the insurance company, you should carefully review the offer with your own advocate, a public adjuster.

Don’t accept an offer you don’t agree with.

If you receive any kind of settlement offer or check from the insurance company that you don’t agree with, don’t accept it. As in the above situation, you should instead carefully review the offer with your public adjuster and try to nail down why the amount is less than you expected.

Insurance Company Tactics

Here are some tactics insurance companies may use to make getting money for damages difficult:

  • Denial that insurance coverage even exists;
  • Denial of your claim because your claim is excluded or partially excluded under your policy;
  • Denies any part of your claim;
  • Unreasonably delays the processing, adjustment, or payment of your claim;
  • Makes misleading or false statements to you;
  • Refuses to pay you under one coverage or attempts to force you to settle under other policy coverage;
  • Tries to lowball you with undervalued estimates, offer, or payments;
  • Tells you that you do not need a public adjuster to resolve the claim;
  • Requires a written release of any supplemental claim as a condition of settlement or payment on your claim; or
  • The check for payment from your insurer or the letter that accompanies it uses terms like “full” or “final” when you reasonably believe that you have a supplemental or additional claim for that loss.

If you encounter any of those problems — or any other dispute with your insurance provider — handling things on your own may be time consuming and difficult.

Irma’s path of destruction

Hurricane Irma is the strongest Atlantic basin hurricane ever recorded outside the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. It lasted as a hurricane from August 31 until September 11. The storm, which stretched 650 miles from east to west, affected at least nine US states, turning streets into rivers, ripping down power lines, uprooting trees, and cutting off coastal communities.

On September 6, Hurricane Irma left a string of small Caribbean islands devastated. The eye of the hurricane passed over Barbuda, damaging about 95% of the buildings on the island.

The hurricane hit southwest Florida on September 10, battering the state’s lower half and leaving a trail of tornadoes and storm-surge flooding as its core slowly moved inland.

The massive storm triggered evacuation orders for 5.6 million people before it made two landfalls.

On Monday, Irma was downgraded to a tropical storm as it lumbered through Georgia to parts north.

By Tuesday, Irma had left a trail of deadly devastation throughout the Southeast, flooding major cities including Jacksonville, Florida, and Charleston, South Carolina, and leaving millions without power.
http://www.cnn.com/specials/hurricane-irma