The short answer
Start with a Ground-Level Exterior Check
Begin your inspection from the safety of the ground using binoculars. Scan the roof surface for obvious signs of disruption, like shingles that are missing, lifted, or cracked. Pay special attention to areas where different materials meet, such as around chimneys, vents, and skylights, as these are common failure points during high winds. Look for any debris, like tree limbs, that may have struck the roof.
Also, examine your gutters and the ground around your home. A significant accumulation of asphalt shingle granules, which look like coarse black sand, often indicates hail damage. Check for dents or creases in metal roof components, gutter downspouts, or window flashing. Bent or damaged vents or plumbing stacks are another clear sign of wind or impact damage from a storm.
Inspect Your Attic and Interior Ceilings
The inside of your home can reveal damage before it becomes visible outside. Enter your attic with a strong flashlight and look for any signs of water intrusion. These include dark stains on the wooden rafters or roof decking, damp or matted insulation, and any musty odors. Check for any spots where you can see daylight piercing through the roof structure.
In your living areas, inspect ceilings and the tops of walls for new water stains, discoloration, or peeling paint. Feel for damp spots or soft, sagging drywall. These interior leaks often trace back to compromised roof shingles or flashing. If you find active dripping, place a bucket to catch water and move valuables out of the way to prevent further damage.
Recognize Specific Types of Storm Damage
Different storms cause distinct patterns of damage. High winds can lift and curl shingle edges, tear off entire sections, or remove the protective granular layer. Hail leaves random, circular dents or bruises on shingles that may not puncture immediately but weaken the material. These bruises often appear as dark, soft spots where the asphalt backing is exposed.
Heavy, sustained rain can exploit any minor existing weakness, leading to widespread leaks. Ice dams in winter can force water back up under shingles. Understanding these patterns helps you know what to look for. For example, wind damage is often localized to roof edges and ridges, while hail damage is more randomly scattered across the entire roof plane.
What to Do After You Spot Damage
If you identify potential storm damage, your first step is to prevent further interior water damage. Move furniture and belongings away from wet areas and place tarps or buckets if safe to do so. Document everything thoroughly with clear photographs and notes, as this is crucial for an insurance claim. Avoid climbing onto the damaged roof yourself, as the structure may be unsafe.
Contact your homeowner's insurance provider to start the claims process. They will typically send an adjuster to assess the damage. It is also wise to get an evaluation from a qualified roofing contractor. Having a professional inspection can provide a detailed report to support your claim and outline the necessary repairs. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Common Signs of Roof Storm Damage
A systematic approach to checking these signs helps you create a complete picture. Start from the ground and work your way to the interior evidence. Taking photos from multiple angles is essential for documentation. Remember that some damage, like weakened shingles from hail, may not cause an immediate leak but will shorten your roof's lifespan significantly.
Regular inspections after major storms are a key part of home maintenance. Catching damage early allows for simpler, more affordable repairs and prevents secondary issues like mold growth and structural rot. Being proactive after severe weather is especially important. Addressing roof damage promptly protects your entire home from extensive water intrusion.
- Missing, cracked, or curled shingles
- Dented or bruised shingles from hail impact
- Excessive granules in gutters or on the ground
- Damaged or missing flashing around vents and chimneys
- Visible sagging or depressions in the roof deck
- Water stains on interior ceilings or attic structures
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Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Can I inspect the roof myself?
You can do a preliminary inspection from the ground and inside your attic. However, walking on a storm-damaged roof is dangerous due to hidden structural weaknesses and slippery surfaces. It is safer to hire a qualified roofer for a thorough, hands-on assessment of the damage.
How soon should I act after a storm?
Act as soon as it is safe to do a visual check. Temporary measures like placing tarps can prevent further interior water damage. Prompt documentation and contacting your insurance company are important steps, as delays can allow minor leaks to cause major problems like mold.
What if I only see minor damage?
Even minor damage should not be ignored. A small missing shingle or a dented vent cap can allow water to seep in over time, leading to rot and mold inside your walls. Have a professional evaluate it to determine if a repair is needed to maintain your roof's integrity.