It’s been a while since that last big storm came through, and your roof is still intact, so you must be in the clear, right? Not necessarily. When most people think of damage to a roof, they think of things like broken shingles or tiles, water infiltration, or even missing parts. However, there is another form of damage caused by bad weather, and it’s often invisible to the untrained eye.
It’s important to inspect any potential storm damage, both on the surface and hidden from view.
Roof Vents:
Many homeowners perceive fascias and soffits as decorative elements of the roof. It couldn’t be further from reality.
Damaged fascia and soffit mean compromised air quality. If these roof parts are dented, warped, or missing, they need to be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
Shingle Bruises:
A missing or broken shingle is an obvious sign of damage, but bruised shingles also exist. These bruises are usually dark in color and appear on the shingle’s surface.
Granule loss is common in severe asphalt shingle bruising. The loose granules may fall into and obstruct your gutters and expose the asphalt beneath to the sun’s rays and future storms, causing further deterioration.
Nicks and Dents in Soft Metal:
Inspect your roof for soft metal components like vents, flashing, or drip edges. These parts of your roof are especially susceptible to dents and nicks. If left unrepaired, these nicks and dents can eventually lead to holes and leaks, allowing water to enter your home.
Roof leaks are a prevalent storm damage type. If you think your roof is leaking, get it examined by a professional as soon as possible. A little leak might develop into a significant issue if left untreated.
Attics and Ceilings:
Most of us only think to check our roofs after a storm has passed, but it’s a good idea to inspect your attic or ceiling for signs of leaks before the storm hits. If you notice any light coming through, that’s a good indication of damage needing repair.
Damaged insulation, water stains, or mold are all signs that your roof has been leaking. If you see any of these things, call a professional to come and take a look.
What Can You Do Next?
Once you know your roof has severe storm damage, it’s essential to take action immediately.
Make Temporary Fixes:
Waterproof severely damaged parts. It might mean putting a tarp over a hole in your roof or covering a damaged section with plastic. You can also place buckets under the leaks so your furniture and flooring remain safe.
Call Your Insurance Company:
Your home insurance covers storm damages in most cases, so contact your agent as soon as possible. They will be able to help you file a claim and get the repairs started. Taking immediate action is in your best interest here. If you take too long before calling the insurer, they may not cover the damage.
Hire A Roofing Contractor:
If you suspect storm damage to your roof, don’t delay contacting a roofing contractor. The sooner you act, the minor damage you’ll have to deal with.
At HT Roofing & Construction, serving Olathe, Kansas, we can help you with our first-rate storm restoration services.
We will handle your home insurance claims and roof repairs so you can focus on what’s important – your family.
We’re here to help you get through this tough time. Get a free estimate today!
