Storm Damage? How to Spot Roof Problems Before They Get Worse

Warm weather brings spring flowers and budding trees but also storms. Heavy rain, high winds, and damaging hail are all part of the changing season.

Keeping your roof in optimum condition will help you weather the season’s storms, but if you are worried about damage, here’s how to spot a problem before it gets out of control.

Telltale signs of roof storm damage

If you see any of these signs, a roof inspection would be a wise choice to isolate and fix the issues:

Storm damage from wind

Missing shingles are one of the most obvious signs. Look for debris on the ground and bare spots on your roof.
Lifted shingles can flap in the wind or appear bent or torn. They may also appear buckled.
Granule loss. If you see granules from your asphalt shingles in your gutters or the ground, these shiny particles are from your shingles.
Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and other things that protrude from your roof.

Hail

Depressions or bruising on your shingles.
Scattered damage pattern.
Granule loss.
Broken or cracked shingles.
Dents on your roof, gutters, or flashing.

Water

Water stains on walls and ceilings. These indicate a leak in your roof.
Leaks: Dripping or visible water entry after heavy rains.
Mold and mildew growth are characterized by a musty smell or visible mold. These indicate trapped moisture.
Gutters and downspouts that are clogged, sagging, or have become detached.

Other factors that could indicate storm damage

Look for noticeable signs of damage, like fallen trees, tree limbs, or debris on your roof. Any of these would warrant further inspection.

Check out the neighborhood. If your neighbors have visible roof damage, there is a good chance that you may also have damage.

When to call a roofing professional

If you have recently experienced a significant storm, the best course of action is to schedule a thorough roof inspection with a company you can trust.

Southern National Roofing offers free inspections. If your roof has suffered damage, they can conduct emergency roof repair to ensure that the damage does not compromise your home’s structural integrity.

A professional is your best resource for filing insurance claims if a storm damages your roof. They can assist with documenting the damage through photographs and assessing the situation, along with providing all the relevant information your insurance agent will need to process the claim.