Storms can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare when the damage is significant, especially when it comes to the roof of your house. Strong winds and hailstones can cause severe damage to your roof, and it’s essential to check your roof after the storm to see if any damage has been done.
Checking your roof can help you detect any potential problems and act on them promptly to avoid more significant damage. In this post, we’ll discuss the steps you need to take to check your roof for damage after a storm.
Assess the Outside of Your Home
The first place to check is the outside of your house. You need to look for visible signs of damage such as cracked, missing, or broken shingles. Make sure you check all sides of your roof. Also, look for dents or dings on your gutters, downspouts, and fascia boards, as these indicate hail damage.
Documenting the damage is an important step in assessing and repairing any damage to your roof. Take photos of all the damage, both from inside and outside your home. Make sure you record all details such as the date, time, location, and severity of the storm so that you can provide this information to your insurance company or a roofer if needed.
Additionally, make a list of the damaged materials and items so that you have an accurate account of what needs to be replaced or repaired. By taking these steps, you can ensure that any repairs made are covered by your insurance and that you receive all the help you need to get your roof back in top condition.
Check the Attic
The attic is the next place you should check for any signs of damage. Make sure you turn off the lights and close the doors to the attic. This enables you to see any daylight coming in through the roof. If you see any light coming in, it means that your roof has suffered damage. You should also look for water damage, wet insulation, mold, or mildew as they are indicators of a leaking roof.
To determine the severity of the damage, you should inspect your roof both from inside and outside your home. If there are several small issues such as cracked shingles or dents in the gutters, then it is likely that the damage is minimal and can be fixed relatively quickly.
However, if there are major problems like missing or broken shingles, holes in the roof, or large dents in the gutters, then it is likely that more significant repairs will be needed. Regardless of the extent of damage, it’s important to call a professional roofing company as soon as possible to assess and repair the damage.
Look for Cracks or Holes
After the storm, it’s crucial to look for cracks, splits, or holes on your roof. These may occur due to an impact from flying debris or hailstones. Check metal components such as vents, flashing, and chimney caps for dents or holes.
Cracks and holes need to be patched quickly in order to prevent them from getting worse. If you are able to identify the problem areas on your roof, you can use a number of methods to patch the cracks or holes. These include using caulk, roofing cement, or sealant tape to fill in the gap; replacing broken shingles; and using a sealant to cover large cracks or holes.
If the damage is severe, it may be necessary to consult with a professional roofer in order to ensure that the repair is done properly. Taking proactive steps after a storm can help prevent further issues and save you money in the long run.
Inspect the Gutters and Downspouts
While checking your roof, ensure you inspect the gutters and downspouts. Look for any signs of damage such as dings or cracks, as these can affect the flow of water from your roof. If you see any granules from the shingles in the gutters, it means your roof has lost some of its protective coating.
It’s important not to neglect your gutters and downspouts when inspecting your roof after a storm. Not only can damage to the guttering cause water to leak from the roof, but clogged or damaged gutters may also lead to other issues such as foundation damage or water pooling around your home. Regularly cleaning out the gutters and ensuring there are no signs of damage can help prevent serious issues in the future.
If you notice any dents or cracks, it’s best to contact a professional roofer who can assess and repair any damage.
When in Doubt, Hire a Professional
While you can inspect your roof yourself, it’s always advisable to involve a professional. A professional roofing contractor has the experience and tools needed to inspect your roof for more than visible damage. They can also identify issues that might affect your roof’s longevity in the long term.
Regular inspections after a storm can prevent minor damages from becoming more significant issues later on. If you notice any damage, make sure to get it fixed as soon as possible to prevent escalating issues.
Remember, safety should always come first. If the roof is too tall or steep and you don’t feel comfortable checking for the damage yourself, hire a professional roofing contractor to do the inspection for you. By following these steps, you can ensure your roof remains in good condition and protects you and your family from the elements all year round.
