Heavy storms can be unpredictable and pose a threat to the state of your home, so knowing how to handle the aftermath is crucial.
Several common signs of storm roof damage include missing, bruised, dented, cracked, or broken shingles, leaks in your roof or ceiling, or dents on vents and gutters. While it might seem like a big task confronting possible roof damage, taking a few simple steps can help with clean up after a heavy storm.
Identifying damage is a big step. Before calling a contractor or contacting your homeowner’s insurance agent, it is good to know what storm damage your home experienced. But how do you get started?
Identifying roof damage, understanding the different types of storm roof damage, and knowing how to hire the right contractor is easy with this six-step checklist.
Step 1: Assess Roof For Visible Damages
If your area had recent storms and you are wondering about the state of your roof, you probably shouldn’t get on top of your roof to check it out. If your rooftop does have severe damage, climbing on top can put you in danger of falling. So, how do you identify damage?
Different kinds of roofs require various forms of inspection. An easy and safe way to assess your roof is by observing from ground level. If you can spot large debris or any lifting or missing shingles from your yard, you should call a specialist.
Step 2: Assess Roof For Hard-To-See Damages
Damage such as standing water can be more challenging to identify from ground level. One way to better identify standing water damage is to assess your rain gutters. If your drainage system is safely and easily accessible, check for any blockages in the rain gutters.
Chances for damage from potential standing water increase if you discover blockages in your rain gutters following a storm.
Step 3: What To Do If You Cannot Identify Damage On Your Own
If you suspect rooftop damage but are unsure of your findings or cannot identify any visible damage from ground level, calling in a professional to inspect your roof is an excellent idea.
Step 4: Understanding Types Of Roof Storm Damage
Hail
The short time hailstorms last make them easily forgotten, but even the quickest storms can result in roof damage. Depending on the size, hail can cause depressions and dents in shingles. Hail also can knock shingles loose or out of place. Damage like this leaves your roof vulnerable to sun and water damage.
Standing Water
Heavy rainstorms are historically unkind to areas lacking proper drainage. If your roof drainage system is unclean or not properly equipped for big storms, you might face damage from pooling water. Standing water on a roof can result in severe damage if not quickly identified.
Wind
Winds of 74 mph or greater pose a serious threat to rooftops. Strong and sudden winds can loosen or altogether remove shingles, leaving your rooftop exposed to the elements.
Debris
Large branches from nearby trees can become free during intense storms. Larger debris has the potential to damage shingles, making your roof more susceptible to moisture damage.
Step 5: Hire A Roofing Contractor
Once you know what damage you might be dealing with, call a roofing contractor. Knowing how to find the best roofing contractor can be difficult. A good place to start is reading client testimonials and reviews of prospective contractors.
You should find a contractor you can trust and feel comfortable being around. Here are some good questions to ask before committing to a contractor:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- Do you offer a warranty?
- What is the actual damage you have found, and can you estimate the total cost and repairs?
- Do you have photos of previous work?
- How long will the repair last?
Step 6: Call Your Homeowner’s Insurance Agent
Contacting your homeowner’s insurance provider after confirming roof storm damage is essential. You should file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance provider, which will likely require photo proof of the damage in question.
Depending on the level of homeowner’s insurance you have, the agency might cover full or partial payment of any necessary roof repairs. The insurer also might send an inspector to confirm the damages you are reporting before clearing the claim, which is good to keep in mind before scheduling repairs.
