How to Spot Roof Damage After a Storm
Storms, regardless of their intensity, have the potential to inflict significant damage on your roof. Recognizing the signs of roof damage early can save you from costly repairs and ensure your home remains protected. Here’s how you can spot roof damage after a storm has passed.
Immediate Signs of Roof Damage
Visual Inspection: Once it's safe, conduct a visual inspection of your roof from the ground. Use binoculars to look for missing shingles, damaged flashing, or other visible signs of damage.
Check Gutters and Downspouts: Inspect your gutters and downspouts for excessive granule accumulation, which can indicate shingle damage. Also, look for any blockages or physical damage to the gutters themselves.
Inspect Outdoor Areas: Look around your yard for pieces of roofing material or metal flashing. This can be a clear sign that your roof has sustained damage.
Subtle Signs of Roof Damage
Water Stains: After a storm, check your attic and ceilings for any water stains. These can indicate a leak in your roof that might not be visible from the outside.
Mold or Mildew: In the weeks following a storm, keep an eye out for the growth of mold or mildew in your attic or on your ceilings, as this can be a sign of water infiltration.
Increased Energy Bills: An unexpected increase in your energy bills could indicate that your roof was damaged, affecting your home’s insulation.
What to Do If You Spot Damage
Document Everything: Take clear photos of any damage you find. This documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and repair discussions.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the damage as soon as possible. Provide them with the documentation you've gathered to facilitate the claims process.
Seek Professional Inspection: Even if you're handy, it’s best to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof for damage. They can identify issues that may not be obvious to the untrained eye.
Preventing Future Storm Damage
Regular Maintenance: Routine maintenance and inspections can help identify and address potential vulnerabilities in your roof before a storm hits.
Trim Trees: Keep trees near your home trimmed to prevent branches from falling on your roof during a storm.
Install Impact-Resistant Shingles: If you live in a storm-prone area, consider upgrading to impact-resistant shingles, which are designed to withstand severe weather.
About Top Side Roofing
Top Side Roofing stands as a beacon of excellence in the roofing industry within Oklahoma City and beyond. With over four decades of experience, our team is dedicated to providing unparalleled service, from routine maintenance to post-storm inspections and repairs. We understand the stress that storm damage can cause, and we strive to make the repair process as smooth as possible for our clients.
If a recent storm has left you concerned about your roof, don’t wait for minor damage to become a major problem. Contact Top Side Roofing today to schedule a comprehensive inspection. Our experienced team will assess your roof's condition, provide you with a detailed report, and guide you through the repair process if necessary. Peace of mind is just a phone call away.
