The aftermath of a severe storm with heavy rain and winds can be stressful. One of the biggest concerns for homeowners after strong winds, hail, or heavy rain is the potential for roof storm damage. Unfortunately, not all roof problems are easily spotted from the ground. Knowing the signs of roof storm damage can help you take timely action, prevent further damage to your home’s interior and exterior, and ensure your family’s safety. This includes everything from subtle hints like missing shingle granules to more obvious signs like leaks.
Visible Signs of Roof Storm Damage
Some signs of roof storm damage are readily visible from the ground. After a storm, inspecting your roof from a safe distance is crucial. However, remember that climbing onto a wet and potentially damaged roof yourself can be dangerous. It’s generally best to rely on a professional roofing contractor for a thorough inspection.
- Missing, Damaged, or Curling Shingles
Your shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against severe weather. Wind uplift is a common cause of roof damage during storms. High winds can also cause shingles to loosen, tear, or blow off entirely, especially if they were already cracked, loose, or nearing the end of their lifespan.
According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, strong winds significantly contribute to roof damage during storms. Missing shingles expose the underlayment and roof deck to the elements, making them vulnerable to leaks and further damage. Strong winds and hail can also cause cracks, dents, or holes in the shingles themselves, compromising their ability to protect your home. After a storm, inspect your roof for signs of missing, broken, cracked, dented, or curling shingles.
1. Missing, Damaged, or Curling Shingles
Your shingles are your roof’s first line of defense against severe weather. Wind uplift is a common cause of roof damage during storms. High winds can cause shingles to loosen, tear, or blow off entirely, especially if they were already cracked, loose, or nearing the end of their lifespan.
According to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety, strong winds are a significant contributor to roof damage during storms. Missing shingles expose the underlayment and roof deck to the elements, making them vulnerable to leaks and further damage. Strong winds and hail can also cause cracks, dents, or holes in the shingles themselves, compromising their ability to protect your home. After a storm, inspect your roof for signs of missing, broken, cracked, dented, or curling shingles.
2. Granule Loss
Asphalt shingles have granules that shield them from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Hailstorms or heavy rain can dislodge these granules, leading to granule loss. If this is the case, you’ll notice a significant amount of shingle granules collecting in your gutters or around the downspouts.
While some granule loss is expected as shingles age, excessive granule loss after a storm could indicate your roof needs attention. A roof with significant granule loss will be less effective at protecting your home from the elements, and you’ll want to have it inspected.
3. Damaged Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are essential for channeling water away from your home’s foundation, preventing soil erosion and basement flooding. However, they’re susceptible to storm damage from strong winds, falling debris, and hail. Inspect your gutters and downspouts for dents, cracks, and blockages. Damaged gutters can lead to water pooling on top of your roof, therefore increasing the likelihood of leaks and water damage.
4. Damaged Flashing
Flashing, the thin metal strips installed at roof transitions (such as around chimneys, skylights, vents, and dormers), is vital for preventing water intrusion. High winds can loosen or damage flashing. Look for areas where flashing appears lifted, torn, or otherwise compromised, allowing water to seep into your home.
5. Damaged Chimney
A storm can also cause severe damage on your chimney. High winds can shift or dislodge the chimney cap. Heavy rain or impact from hail can loosen or crack the mortar joints in the chimney, allowing water to enter. Also, inspect the flashing around the chimney. This flashing prevents water from getting into the structure, and you’ll want to ensure that it is all still intact and doing its job.
Less Obvious Signs of Roof Storm Damage
While some storm damage is evident from the exterior of your house, others require a closer look within your home. Don’t solely rely on the visible signs mentioned earlier. Investigate these often-overlooked but significant indicators.
- Leaks in Your Attic
Leaks are among the most apparent signs of internal roof damage. After a storm, head to your attic with a flashlight. Look for water stains or streaks on the underside of the roof deck, rafters, insulation, and the attic floor. Be aware of any musty odors in the attic, as they can indicate the presence of moisture and mold. Promptly addressing any signs of attic leaks is crucisl to prevent more extensive and expensive repairs.
1. Leaks in Your Attic
Leaks are among the most apparent internal roof damage signs. After a storm, head to your attic with a flashlight. Look for water stains or streaks on the underside of the roof deck, rafters, insulation, and the attic floor. Be aware of any musty odors in the attic, as they can indicate the presence of moisture and mold. Promptly addressing any signs of attic leaks is essential to prevent more extensive and costly repairs.
2. Sagging Ceilings
A sagging ceiling inside your home often signals a problem with the roof structure. If you notice your ceilings are sagging, this could be from water damage or other storm damage. A sagging ceiling can be a warning sign of severe structural damage caused by water infiltration, strong winds, or the weight of debris on the roof.
3. Interior Wall Damage
A sagging ceiling, cracked, peeling, or discolored paint or wallpaper on interior walls can indicate water damage from a leaking roof. While these signs could be attributed to other causes, like plumbing issues, it’s crucial to eliminate a roof leak as a potential culprit, especially after a storm. If left untreated for a period of time, you may even notice mold growth in some cases.
4. Increased Energy Bills
A damaged roof can negatively impact your home’s energy efficiency, increasing heating and cooling costs. If your energy bills unexpectedly spike following a storm, your roof’s compromised insulation, caused by storm damage, might be to blame. Check your energy bills after a big storm to see if you’re paying more than usual, as that can be an indicator.
Protecting Your Roof Before Storm Season
While you can’t prevent storms, safeguarding roofs from storm damage can significantly minimize their impact. Here’s how:
- Trim Trees Overhanging Your Roof.
- Clean Your Gutters.
- Schedule a Pre-Season Roof Inspection.
- Know Your Insurance Policy.
- Document the Condition of Your Roof.
What To Do If Your Roof Sustains Storm Damage?
Experiencing storm damage to your roof can feel overwhelming, but it’s crucial to approach the situation systematically.
1. Ensure Safety First
Stay away from a visibly damaged roof. Avoid walking on a wet, slippery roof, as it poses significant risks. If you identify potential structural damage, like sagging or cracking, evacuate your home and contact a structural engineer to come and take a look.
2. Document the Damage
Thoroughly photograph or video record all visible damage, including exterior and interior signs of damage. Detailed documentation is crucial for filing insurance claims and will help during the assessment process. Take note of the date and time you noticed the damage.
3. Mitigate Further Damage
If possible and safe to do so, take temporary measures to mitigate further damage. Lay down tarps or cover exposed areas to protect your home from additional water intrusion until a professional roofer can come to your home for further assessment.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company
File a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. Your insurance policy can cover certain types of damage. Contact them for guidance. The insurance adjuster might require a professional inspection, but sometimes, having clear images readily available during a call helps them assess your claim quickly. Sometimes, your insurance company may need multiple estimates for the repair work.
Refrain from assuming your insurance company will approve a full replacement. Be prepared to advocate for what you need to get your roof adequately fixed based on their inspection and evaluation of the damage. You’ll want to be sure that your policy covers roof repairs and what exactly it covers.
5. Seek Multiple Repair Estimates
While not always necessary, consider contacting multiple roofing contractors to get an idea of the cost of repairs. This step will give you options when choosing a contractor to handle repairs or replacements.
6. Check for Unexpected Costs
Engage in detailed discussions with potential roofing contractors. They can better explain the cost of new roof installation or repair. This can also help uncover potentially unexpected expenses beyond the initial estimate and help you make more informed financial decisions regarding your roof repair. Ensure the chosen contractor addresses all necessary repairs.
FAQs About Signs of Roof Storm Damage
How do I know if my roof needs to be replaced after a storm?
Determining the extent of roof damage after a storm generally requires a professional inspection. However, some obvious signs often point to a necessary replacement. These signs include large sections of missing or damaged shingles, extensive water damage inside the home, or visible structural damage to the roof. It’s always best to rely on a professional’s assessment.
How long after a storm can I file a roof insurance claim?
It’s advisable to report damage from a storm to your insurer as soon as possible. At the same time, specific timelines can vary based on your policy or location. Generally, it’s wise to report damage within a few days of the event. Check your policy details and contact your insurance company directly to confirm the appropriate timeline for your specific circumstances.
My roof looks ok from the ground. Do I still need to get a professional roof inspection after a storm?
It’s wise to schedule an inspection after any significant weather event, especially if your area experiences high winds or hail. Often, missing shingles or tiles might not be readily visible from the ground due to their placement behind flashing or beneath overlapping layers. Professional roofers possess the tools, equipment, and experience to thoroughly assess for those less visible but potentially harmful types of damage. These professionals offer valuable expertise and ensure a thorough evaluation of your roof’s condition.
Conclusion
Knowing the signs of roof storm damage empowers you to take swift action to protect your property. Addressing roofing concerns as early as possible after a storm is key to averting expensive repairs down the line. When inspecting a damaged roof, it’s best to enlist help. Be attentive and prioritize the longevity of your home by learning to spot those signs and understanding their significance in preventing further issues. Understanding the different types of storm damage, the subtle signs to look for, and how to deal with a damaged roof will provide peace of mind and protect your home. By arming yourself with this knowledge, you can confidently handle whatever Mother Nature throws your way and safeguard one of your most significant investments – your home.
