What To Do When a Storm Damages Your Roof

5/13/2020 (Permalink)

Roof collapsed in a Fairview, NC

Has a storm damaged your roof? If so, it’s best to act quickly. If left too long, a minor roof repair can turn into a major one.

Assess the Damage

After a storm with high winds, hail or heavy rain, be sure to inspect your roof for damage immediately. Here are some things to look for:

• Curled, lifted, missing or broken shingles
• Dented gutters or downspouts
• Gutters clogged with shingle material
• Missing or torn flashing around the chimney
• Water stains on the ceiling or walls of your top floor
  

Request an Inspection
If you suspect you have roof damage, contact a licensed roofing contractor in Fairview, NC, and schedule an inspection right away. Make sure they take photos and provide a written inspection report for any potential insurance claim. It’s wise to schedule any roof repair as quickly as possible. For extensive repairs, a storm damage restoration company can manage the cleanup.

Take Action
Heavy winds can lift shingles and break the waterproof seal, potentially causing leaks that could damage your attic insulation and dramatically increase your energy costs. If water has leaked into the attic, make sure that the areas get dried out, and replace any damaged materials. A timely repair can spare you from repeating this process.

Be Proactive
Protect your roof from wind damage caused by flying debris or tree branches. Prune trees so that limbs can’t reach the house. If you’re in an area that is prone to high winds, make sure there aren’t objects in your yard or patio area that could damage your roof or break windows.
If you don’t address the need for a roof repair when you discover it, you risk causing further harm to both your roof and the structural integrity of your home. A trained roof inspector can find problems that might otherwise go unnoticed, which will save you money in the long run.