While we always recommend you leave a full inspection to the professionals, it can be useful for a homeowner to know how to check for roof damage after a storm.
Summer thunderstorms, hail, high winds, and rain — these things happen all the time, especially here in North Texas. And they can wreak havoc on roofs.
A damaged roof will lead to the following issues:
- Water leaks
- Structural issues
- Increased energy costs
- Mold and mildew
Let’s move on to the steps you can take to detect roof damage while staying safe.
Search for damage after a storm.
A damaged roof and its side effects can quickly worsen over time. We recommend that once a storm is over, you do two things as soon as possible:
- Perform a ground-level search, documenting any areas of concern.
- Call a professional for a full inspection.
Damaged roofs are hazardous, especially if there are loose or missing shingles, so never do any climbing. I’ll say that again — never do any climbing. But you can walk around the perimeter of your house and take note of any visible storm damage.
Legitimate contractors will inspect your roof for free.
Remember, reputable contractors offer a free inspection. Your initial check is to get an overview of the extent of the harm before the pro arrives.
There are a few obvious signs of roof damage.
As you examine your roof, look for damage to the following areas:
- Gutters and windows
- Shingles
- Chimneys
- Flashing (the metal material where shingles butt up against walls and chimneys)
Much of the damage will be easy to spot, like cracks in a chimney or missing shingles. Others, however, can’t be seen by a DIY ground-level inspection.
Much of the damage is hidden.
These hidden flaws will gradually worsen over time, leading to significant issues. Early detection is the best way to prevent them.
A professional can spot granule loss.
Granules are those small particles embedded on the surface of asphalt shingles. They weatherproof the underlying shingle, so when granules are worn away, you get problems.
You might notice them accumulating in gutters or downspouts, but you’ll most likely need a professional to identify granule loss.
There are major costs for not fixing your roof.
Let’s get into the details. Why is it important to know how to check for roof damage after a storm?
Roof damage leads to water intrusion.
Those loose shingles don’t just look unsightly. They allow rainwater to penetrate your home. Water that seeps into your walls, ceilings, and insulation leads to the deterioration of building materials.
Roof damage also harms structural integrity.
Your roof is crucial for the structural integrity of your home. It helps distribute weight, contributing to overall stability and strength.
A damaged roof compromises your home’s entire structure. And if it’s left alone too long without repair, your roof can collapse.
It also increases energy costs.
Damaged roofs let outside air in, making it tougher to control your home’s temperature. Your heating and cooling systems need to work harder, using more energy and costing you money.
And it can create mold.
Water intrusion creates a damp environment where mold thrives. Mold spreads quickly and further harms your roof and walls. Worse, it can cause health issues for you and your family.
Once you check for roof damage after a storm, call a professional.
An inspection from a licensed contractor is the only way to tell the full extent of your damage. Don’t hesitate to call.
Juno Roofing offers insurance claims assistance
We will apply expert craftsmanship to your roof and guide you through the insurance process. We want to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for any storm-related damage.
Schedule a free inspection today.
– Carlos Rivero, Owner & Operator, Juno Construction Group
