6 Do’s & Don’ts When Dealing With Roof Storm Damage (Homeowner’s Guide)

Storms can be incredibly destructive, causing significant damage to homes, particularly to roofs. For homeowners, understanding roof storm damage is crucial to protecting your investment and ensuring the safety and integrity of your home.

In this expert guide, we’ll explore:

• The types of storm damage
• How to identify it
• The steps to take after a storm
• Preventive measures to safeguard your roof

Types of Storm Damage

Storm damage to your roof can come in a variety of forms, including:

• Wind Damage: High winds can cause severe damage to roofs by lifting shingles, loosening nails, and even tearing off entire sections. Wind damage is often the most visible type of storm damage and can lead to leaks and further structural issues if not addressed promptly.
• Hail Damage: Hailstorms can be particularly destructive, especially if the hailstones are large. Hail can crack or dent shingles, damage the protective granules on asphalt shingles, and create openings for water infiltration. Even small hailstones can cause significant damage over time.
• Water Damage: Heavy rainstorms can cause water to seep under damaged shingles or through weak points in the roof. If not properly drained, water can accumulate, leading to leaks, mold growth, and structural deterioration.
• Debris Damage: Storms often bring debris such as branches, leaves, and other objects that can land on your roof. Large branches or heavy debris can cause punctures or fractures in the roofing material, leading to potential leaks and structural damage.

Identifying Roof Storm Damage

Knowing how to identify storm damage is essential for timely repairs and insurance claims. Here are some signs to look for:

Missing or Damaged Shingles

After a storm, inspect your roof for any missing, cracked, or curled shingles. These are often the first indicators of wind or hail damage.

Granule Loss

Check your gutters and downspouts for an excessive amount of shingle granules. Granule loss indicates that your shingles’ protective layer is compromised, which can lead to accelerated wear and tear.

Water Stains and Leaks

Inspect your attic and ceilings for water stains or leaks. Any signs of moisture or water damage inside your home could indicate a compromised roof.

Dents and Punctures

Look for dents, punctures, or fractures in the roofing material, especially after a hailstorm. These can weaken the roof’s structure and lead to further damage if not repaired.

Sagging Roof

A sagging roof indicates severe structural damage and requires immediate attention. This could be due to prolonged water damage or weakened roofing materials.

6 Steps to Take After a Storm

If your roof has sustained storm damage, it’s essential to act quickly to prevent further issues. Follow these steps to address the damage effectively:

1. Ensure Safety First

Before inspecting your roof, ensure that it’s safe to do so. Avoid walking on a damaged roof, as it may collapse or cause injury. If you’re unsure, contact a professional roofing contractor for an inspection.

2. Document the Damage

Take clear photos and videos of the damage from different angles. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and repairs.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the damage as soon as possible. Provide them with the documentation and follow their instructions for filing a claim. An adjuster will likely visit your home to assess the damage.

4. Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor

Choose a reputable roofing contractor to inspect and repair the damage. Look for contractors with experience in storm damage repairs and check their credentials, reviews, and references.

5. Make Temporary Repairs

While waiting for professional repairs, make temporary fixes to prevent further damage. Use tarps or roofing cement to cover exposed areas and seal leaks.

6. Keep Records

Maintain records of all communications with your insurance company, contractors, and any repair receipts. This will be helpful for tracking expenses and ensuring a smooth claims process.

Do’s and Don’ts for Roof Storm Damage

Knowing the correct actions to take and avoid after your roof sustains storm damage is crucial for protecting your home and ensuring timely repairs.

👍 Do’s

• Do Document the Damage: Take clear, comprehensive photos and videos of the damage from multiple angles to provide to your insurance company and contractors.
• Do Prioritize Safety: Ensure that your property is safe and that there are no immediate hazards. Avoid climbing onto the roof if it is unsafe.
• Do Temporarily Cover Exposed Areas: Use tarps or plastic sheeting to temporarily cover holes or leaks to prevent further damage until professional repairs can be made.
• Do Keep Records: Maintain a detailed log of all communications, receipts, and expenses related to the damage and repairs.
• Do Contact Your Insurance Company Early: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process without delay.
• Do Hire a Reputable Contractor: Choose a licensed and insured roofing contractor with experience in storm damage repairs.

👎 Don’ts

• Don’t Ignore Minor Damage: Small issues can escalate quickly. Address even minor damage promptly to avoid more extensive problems.
• Don’t Make Permanent Repairs Before an Inspection: Doing so might affect your insurance claim. Wait until your insurance adjuster has inspected the damage before making any permanent repairs.
• Don’t Climb Onto a Damaged Roof: The roof may be unstable and dangerous to walk on. Leave the inspection to the professionals.
• Don’t Delay Contacting Professionals: Waiting too long to address storm damage can lead to further deterioration and more costly repairs.
• Don’t Handle Complex Repairs Yourself: Leave the complicated repairs to professional contractors who have the necessary skills and equipment.
• Don’t Accept the First Estimate: Get multiple repair estimates to ensure you are getting a fair price and the best possible service.

By following these do’s and don’ts, you can mitigate further damage, ensure a smoother insurance claims process, and facilitate timely and effective repairs to your roof. Protecting your home and maintaining its structural integrity starts with informed and decisive actions after a storm.

Preventive Measures for Roof Storm Damage

Taking preventive measures can help minimize the risk of storm damage and extend the lifespan of your roof. Here are some tips to protect your roof:

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

Schedule regular roof inspections, especially before and after storm seasons. Address any minor issues promptly to prevent them from escalating into major problems.

Keep Gutters Clean

Ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clean and free of debris. Proper drainage prevents water from pooling on your roof and causing leaks.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Trim any branches that hang over your roof to prevent them from breaking and causing damage during a storm. This also reduces the risk of debris accumulation on your roof.

Install Impact-Resistant Shingles

Consider upgrading to impact-resistant shingles designed to withstand hail and high winds. These shingles are more durable and provide better protection against storm damage.

Reinforce Roof Structure

Strengthen your roof’s structure by adding additional support or bracing. This can improve its resilience against high winds and heavy debris.

Secure Loose Items

Before a storm, secure any loose items in your yard, such as patio furniture, grills, or garden tools. These items can become projectiles and cause damage to your roof during high winds.

The Importance of Professional Inspections

While homeowners can perform visual inspections, professional roof inspections are essential for detecting hidden damage and ensuring comprehensive repairs. Professional inspectors have the expertise and tools to identify issues that may not be visible to the untrained eye. Regular professional inspections can help maintain your roof’s integrity and prevent costly repairs in the long run.

The Role of Insurance in Roof Storm Damage

Homeowners insurance typically covers roof storm damage, but it’s crucial to understand your policy’s terms and conditions. Here are some key points to consider:

• Review Your Policy: Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy’s coverage for storm damage. Understand what is included, any exclusions, and the deductible amount.
• Document Everything: Keep thorough documentation of all communication with your insurance company, including emails, phone calls, and claim forms. This will help streamline the claims process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
• Work with Your Adjuster: When the insurance adjuster visits your home, provide them with all the necessary documentation and be present during the inspection. This ensures that all damage is accurately assessed.
• Get Multiple Repair Estimates: Obtain multiple repair estimates from reputable roofing contractors. This will help you make an informed decision and provide your insurance company with accurate information.
• Understand the Claims Process: Familiarize yourself with the claims process, including timelines and required documentation. Follow up with your insurance company regularly to ensure your claim is progressing smoothly.

A Roofing Company You Can Count On

Roof storm damage can be a significant concern for homeowners, but understanding the types of damage, how to identify it, and the steps to take after a storm can make a world of difference.

Don’t wait until the next storm hits—take action now to safeguard your roof and home. If you need assistance with inspections, repairs, or understanding your insurance coverage, contact Built Right Roofing today.