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Originally Posted On: https://metrohomeimprovementva.com/storm-aftermath-how-to-spot-signs-of-roof-damage/

When the storm clouds clear and you can go back outside without risk, checking your roof for damage as soon as possible is a good idea.

Spotting roof damage isn’t always straightforward. Sometimes, the signs are obvious, like missing shingles or leaks, but other times, they’re subtle, lurking out of sight and threatening the safety and longevity of your home.

In this guide, %COMPANY%’s roofing experts will walk you through the essential steps you should take to identify evident and hidden storm-induced damages for a variety of popular roof types and share insight on what to do when you encounter a problem with your roof following an intense weather event.

Regular checks and timely repairs are the key to extending the life of your roof and ensuring the long-term safety of your home. No matter which roof type your home has, the following post-storm roof inspection checklist is a good place to start to gain a better picture of the health of your roofing system after a storm.

Here’s what we recommend:

Safety first: Be sure the bad weather has passed before beginning your inspection. Wet roofs can be slippery-avoid climbing onto your rooftop immediately after a storm. Before starting your assessment, you should also check for downed power lines or electrical hazards.

Ground level exterior check: Check your yard for roofing materials like shingles and pieces of flashing. You should also look around for fallen tree branches or debris that may have struck your roof. Look at the fascia and soffits to check for any visible signs of damage, and make note of any blockages or damage that’s affected your guttering system, including downspouts.

From a safe vantage point (like a window or balcony): Try to gain a clear view of your rooftop and look for missing, cracked, or torn roofing materials. Take a look at metal flashings around chimneys, vents, skylights, or valleys to spot signs of damage or displacement.

Interior check: Inspect your attic for signs of leaks or water damage. Look for wet insulation, and check the ceiling and walls for stains or discoloration. Pay attention to any unusual odors-these typically indicate mold or mildew is present due to a leak.

Chimney and vents: Examine your chimney for cracked bricks or missing mortar. Check to see that the chimney cap is still in place and intact. Then, take a look at roof vents to ensure they’re not blocked and are working correctly.

Remember, while checking your home for damage is important, your safety is essential. When you’re unsure about any aspect or feel it’s unsafe, always prioritize calling a professional roofer.

Even the most sturdy and well-installed roofing systems can get rattled during a bad storm, no matter which material they’re made from. With that said, the kind of roof you have can play a role in the specific types of storm damage you might encounter and the best methods for their repair.

Let’s examine below:

After storms, asphalt shingles may get lifted, cracked, or entirely blown off. When this happens, replacing or resealing them is crucial to prevent leaks and further damage.

EPDM, or rubber roofing, is known for its durability. However, storms can cause punctures or tears and sometimes even detach the material from the substrate. Repair often involves patching or re-sealing affected areas.

Storms can cause slate tiles to crack or become dislodged. Promptly replacing broken or missing tiles is crucial to prevent water damage underneath.

For flat roofs with tar and gravel, storms might wash away the gravel, exposing the tar. When this happens, it’s essential to redistribute gravel and check for blistering or cracks in the tar.

Sometimes, the damage to a rooftop is so severe that immediate attention is required to prevent further complications. Emergency roofers offer swift solutions, like tarping, to mitigate immediate threats.

When fast action is required to protect your home from further damage, opting for emergency roof repairs is a wise investment.

After identifying damage, you’ll need an accurate estimate for repairs. Several roofing companies provide free or low-cost evaluations to help you understand costs and the interventions your roof requires to regain optimal performance.

A roofing estimate should be upfront and include:

• A detailed description of the roof damage.
• A clear definition of the scope of the repairs.
• A materials list, including the type, brand, and cost per unit of each roofing product.
• Labor costs, including an estimated number of labor hours required and a breakdown of hourly rates or total labor charges.
• Any additional services, including the cost of removing and disposing of old roofing materials and other potential services like gutter clearing or tree debris removal.
• Warranty information.
• Payment terms.
• Repair work timeline.

It helps to obtain multiple estimates from more than one roofing business to compare costs and ensure you’re receiving the best value. Don’t hesitate to contact several local roofing experts to request pricing and service information.

When storm damage strikes, it’s essential to have reliable roofers to turn to. Always consider roofers with excellent reviews, proven experience, and the necessary licenses and insurance. Remember, the faster you identify and address roofing issues, the better the chances of preventing further, more costly damages.

Always prioritize your safety, and don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance when in doubt.

Dealing with storm damage can be daunting, but understanding the types of damages and potential solutions makes the process more manageable. %COMPANY% is here to guide and support you every step of the way.

When you want to work with the best roofers, we’re only a phone call away. Reach us at %PHONE1% for the answers to all your questions about how to preserve and fortify your roofing system in the aftermath of a storm.