Storms can wreak havoc on our homes, and one of the most vulnerable parts of any home is the roof. Heavy rain, high winds, and hail can all cause damage to a roof, which, if left unchecked, can lead to further problems down the line. Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to identify and repair storm damage to their roof. That’s why we’ve put together this blog post on the signs of roof storm damage, and why hiring a professional to repair it is a good idea.
At Hepler Contracting LLC, we like to educate homeowners on everything roofing, in order for them to make the best decision possible in regard to their home and safety. By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge you need to keep your roof from more extensive damage by being able to notice the signs of storm damage on your roof and acting quickly before it’s too late.
What Is Storm Damage Roof Repair, And What Impact Does It Leave?
Storm damage roof repair refers to the process of repairing a roof that has been damaged by a storm. Storms can cause a range of damage to roofs, including missing or broken shingles, cracks or punctures in the roof’s surface, and damage to gutters and downspouts. If left unrepaired, this damage can lead to water leaks, which will cause further damage to the roof and potentially lead to mold growth and structural issues.
The impact of storms can be significant, both financially and emotionally. It can be stressful to deal with the aftermath of a storm, particularly if the damage is extensive. That’s why it’s essential to identify and address any storm damage to your roof as soon as possible to minimize the impact and ensure the long-term health and safety of your home.
Why Should You Repair Roof Storm Damage Immediately?
Repairing storm damage to your roof immediately is crucial for several reasons. First, the longer the damage remains unrepaired, the higher the chances it will worsen and lead to further issues. What seems like a small issue, like missing shingles, can lead to larger problems like water leaks, which will damage the underlying structure of your roof and cause mold growth. Delaying repairs can also be costly, as the damage worsens and therefore requires more extensive repairs.
If left unaddressed, storm damage will impact the safety and structural integrity of your home depending on its severity. It will also impact your roof storm damage insurance claim process. Therefore, addressing such issues immediately will provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your home is safe and secure from the elements, while also avoiding costly repairs and potential safety hazards down the road.
Types Of Storm Damage To Roofs
Depending on your local weather, different storms will leave different signs of damage on your roof. Below, we’ve included specific signs of roof storm damage to look out for, depending on the type of damage that’s occurred.
Wind Damage
Wind damage to a roof can take several forms, but one of the most common signs is the lifting or tearing of shingles. High winds cause shingles to lift or tear off completely, leaving the underlying roofing material exposed to the elements. This may lead to water leaks, which can cause further damage to the roof and potentially lead to mold growth and structural issues.
Another common form of wind damage is damage to the fascia or soffits. The fascia is the board that runs horizontally under the edge of the roof and protects the area where the roof meets the outer wall of a home. Soffits are located on the underside of the fascia board. High winds can cause these materials to loosen or tear away from the roof, leaving the underlying structure exposed to the elements. This type of damage also leads to water leaks and may potentially cause damage to the interior of the home if left unrepaired.
Hail Damage
Hail storm roof damage can be difficult to identify, as it depends on the size of the hailstones, but there are a few tell-tale signs to look out for. One of the most common signs of hail damage is dents or cracks in the shingles or roof surface. Hail can create small craters on the surface of the shingles, and metal panels, which weaken the integrity of the roof.
All shingles are designed to have a protective layer of granules, but these can dislodge when hit by hail. This loss of granules can make the shingles more vulnerable to damage from future storms and can shorten their lifespan. Look for excessive shingle granules in your gutter system, if you see this, they may have taken on damage from hailstorms.
Water Damage
Water damage to a roof during a storm can be extensive and have significant consequences if left unaddressed. One of the most common signs of water damage to a roof is leaks through damaged areas. If your roof has been compromised during a storm, water will enter through any openings and infiltrate your home, causing damage to the walls, ceilings, and insulation.
Another sign of water damage is the development of rot or mold growth on wood decking or insulation. This is usually an indication that water has been present in the area for an extended period of time, causing damage and potentially creating a health hazard.
Signs Of Roof Storm Damage
Being able to identify signs of storm damage is essential for the maintenance and safety of your roof and home. Storm damage can range from mild to severe, but the earlier it’s detected, the easier and less expensive it will be to repair. In this section, we’ll discuss some of the most common signs of storm damage to roofs.
Exterior Signs
There are several exterior signs of roof damage that homeowners should look out for after a storm. Missing or damaged shingles are often one of the most visible signs of storm damage, and they can expose the underlying roofing materials to the elements, leading to water leaks and potential damage to the roof deck. Cracks or punctures in the roof surface can also be a sign of storm damage, as they can create openings for water to infiltrate the roof.
Dented or damaged gutters and downspouts indicate that the storm caused debris or hail to hit the roof with enough force to damage the gutters. If the wind is strong enough it will also pull gutters loose from the fascia board. This same force may even bend or detach flashing, and since flashing protects gaps in the roof from water damage, you’ll be vulnerable to roof leaks if it’s damaged.
Interior Signs
In addition to exterior signs, there are several interior signs that homeowners should look out for. One of the most common interior signs of storm damage is water leaks. If your roof has been compromised during a storm, water can infiltrate your home and cause water stains or discoloration on your ceilings and walls. These stains may be accompanied by a damp or musty odor, which is often an indication of water damage.
Hiring a professional to help with storm damage roof repair is essential for ensuring that your home is properly repaired and restored after a storm.
Why Do You Need Professional Help For Storm Damage Roof Repair?
A professional roofing contractor can accurately assess the extent of the damage and provide the necessary repairs to prevent further damage. They can also help with roof storm damage insurance claims, which can typically be a complex and time-consuming process. Their team will document the damage and provide an accurate estimate of the repair costs, which can all be submitted to your insurance company to ensure that you receive compensation for the damage. Working with a professional also helps streamline the repair process, as they have the knowledge, experience, and equipment necessary to perform high-quality repairs quickly and efficiently.
It’s crucial to take any signs of roof storm damage seriously and to seek the help of a professional for repair. From missing shingles to water leaks, storm damage can cause a range of issues that compromises the safety and structural integrity of your home. By contacting Hepler Contracting LLC, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your home is in good hands. We provide the most reliable emergency services to help with storm damage on roofs.
Our team of experienced professionals can provide a thorough roof inspection to assess the extent of storm damage and provide the necessary information for you to submit to your insurance company. Already have an approved claim? We’ll help with the repair and replacement process! Contact us today at (412) 694-8785 to schedule your storm damage roof inspection before it’s too late.