During a violent storm, heavy winds and torrential rains, and hail can wreak havoc on a roof, especially if it has already suffered damage in the past. After a storm, one of the first things a homeowner needs to check is their roof. Knowing how to check for damages after a major storm is important for all homeowners, no matter where they live.
Types of Roof Damage
The roof is the most vulnerable area of a home. Multiple types of damages can occur to a roof, depending on the kind of weather event. The following offers an explanation of the different types of damage and what causes them. Homeowners who experience these types of damages need to find a roofing company right away.
Wind Damage
When hurricane-force winds strike, great roof damages will often result. Hurricane-force winds are winds that are higher than 74 mph. Gale force winds can also cause major damages. These winds lead to speeds of 39-54 mph.
High winds can remove shingles, leaving behind an exposed underlayment, waterproofing materials, or decking. If the winds are not as high, they can still cause damages, such as lifting, curling, and splitting shingles.
Hail Damage
Hailstorms are typically shorter storms and usually do not last more than fifteen minutes. During that short time span, roof damage can occur quickly. Hailstones will leave dents and holes in the shingles. They will also knock shingle granules loose, leaving a roof unprotected. Hail damage can also make a roof look unattractive.
Debris Damage
Debris is also a common cause of roof damage during a storm. Types of debris that may damage a roof include limbs, building materials, and much more. High winds can lift many objects off the ground, which can lead to major roof damages. Large branches and other debris can cause dents in the roofing materials. In some cases, a section of the roof can even cave in due to the weight. Dents in the roof can make it vulnerable to water damage.
Water Damage
When a roof does not have proper drainage, it is more likely to suffer standing water damage after heavy rain. If the gutter system is no longer working as it should, standing water could seep through the protective roofing materials and into the decking, where it can cause damage.
If a roof becomes damaged, it needs to be repaired right away, before the damages become worse. Homeowners need to know the important steps to take after a major storm causes roof damage so their homes will be protected properly.
Checklist for Storm Roof Damage
It is important to check every area of a roof after a storm hits. Some damage will be visible from the ground, but homeowners may need to use a ladder to inspect their roofs thoroughly. Homeowners need to make sure they practice safety first. If a homeowner lacks the necessary equipment or does not feel comfortable inspecting their roof, they should call a professional for help.
- First, homeowners should walk around the perimeter of their home and look up to see if any roof damage has occurred. It is wise for homeowners to make a list of any damages they see.
- It is important to check for any signs of damage to the roof’s gutter system. Homeowners should also check any roof accessories, including gable vents and overhangs. All of these can become damaged in major storms.
- Check the attic for any signs of damage or leaks. It is also important to check the home’s ceilings for any water spots or leaks. Even if a roof’s exterior does not seem damaged, water can begin to leak inside and cause problems.
Homeowners should document any roof damages they discover. Videos, photos, and notes are all helpful. A homeowner will need to put in a claim with their homeowner’s insurance to ensure the damages are repaired promptly.
Hire a Roofing Contractor
Storms can happen any time of the year and result in serious roof damage. When roof damages occur, it is important homeowners rely on a trusted roofing contractor to take care of the repairs. Roofing contractors will offer homeowners the following services.
Assess the Damage
A roofing contractor can assess a home’s roof damage with a professional eye. They know the signs to look for to determine what damages have occurred. They can spot minor roofing problems before they become more complex and expensive to repair.
Provide an Estimate
It is important homeowners understand they are under no obligation when having their roof checked by a roofing contractor. Once the roof has been inspected, the contractor will provide a detailed report and an estimate for the cost of repairs.
Repair or Replace
Roofing contractors offer both repair and replacement services for homeowners. If the roof can be repaired, they will carry out the necessary repairs. If too much damage has occurred, the roof will likely need to be replaced.
Choose the Right Roofing Contractor
Choosing the right roofing contractor is a must for homeowners. It is important a homeowner checks to ensure the contractor is licensed and properly insured. If the contractor is not licensed, homeowners should look elsewhere for these services.
Homeowners should carefully research their options and learn as much as possible about each roofing contractor before they choose. Reading customer reviews is a good place to start. The more a homeowner learns about a roofing contractor the better equipped they will be to make a sound choice.
Conclusion
Storms can cause major roof damages. Even minor storms can produce shingle problems. If a homeowner notices any damages to their roof, they need to call a professional roofing contractor right away.
A roofing contractor will inspect the roof thoroughly. They will look for any signs of damage and then report the issues to the homeowner. Prompt repairs are essential when roofing damage occurs. Waiting too long to repair roof damage will lead to more pronounced problems.
With the above guide, homeowners should find it easier to take care of roof problems after a storm. Roof repair ensures a home is protected against water damage.