Storm damage can wreak havoc on a home’s roof, causing costly repairs if left untreated. This blog post discusses three common signs of storm-related roof damage: missing or damaged shingles, water leaks, and visible granule loss.
By promptly identifying and addressing these issues, you can protect your property and potentially save thousands in repair costs.
Key Takeaways
- Missing or damaged shingles, water leaks, and visible granule loss are all common signs of storm damage on a roof.
- Water leaks can lead to mold growth and even structural issues if left unaddressed, so it’s crucial to promptly detect the leak’s source.
- It’s important to call a professional roofing contractor for inspection and make an insurance claim if necessary when you spot any signs of storm damage on your roof.
- Taking preventive measures like regular roof maintenance and installing lightning rods can help prevent further damage from future storms.
3 Signs of Storm Damage on a Roof
Missing or damaged shingles, water leaks, and visible granule loss on shingles are three common signs of storm damage that homeowners can easily identify.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
Missing or damaged shingles are another obvious sign of storm damage on a roof. This type of damage is often caused by strong winds, hail, or heavy rain that can rip off shingles entirely or cause them to crack and curl.
For example, suppose you notice several missing shingles in a specific area after a powerful storm with intense wind gusts. In that case, it may indicate that your roof experienced significant wind damage during the storm.
If you see cracked or curled shingles accompanied by dark patches where granules have been stripped away (visible granule loss), this could indicate hailstorm impact.
It’s essential to address these issues promptly as they can quickly escalate into more severe problems like mold growth or structural instability within your home.
Water Leaks
Water leaks are a crucial sign of storm damage on a roof, often indicating that water has infiltrated the roofing system through damaged or missing shingles. If left unaddressed, they can lead to various problems, such as mold growth, attic repair needs, and even structural issues.
Detecting the source of water leaks is essential for timely repairs and preventing further damage. Homeowners can look for signs such as damp insulation in the attic, rust stains around roofing nails, or ice dams during winter months.
Visible Granule Loss on Shingles
Visible granule loss on shingles is a common yet often overlooked sign of storm damage on a roof. This visible damage occurs when strong winds, hail, or other elements strip away the protective mineral granules from asphalt shingles, exposing the underlying asphalt and making it vulnerable to further deterioration.
The absence of these essential mineral granules can significantly reduce the lifespan and effectiveness of your roofing system. It’s crucial to address this issue promptly, as other signs of storm damage, like missing or damaged shingles and water leaks, may accompany it.
If you notice visible granule loss on your roof after a severe weather event, immediately contact a professional for an inspection.
What To Do if You Spot These Signs
If you spot any signs of storm damage on your roof, it is important to call a professional for inspection, consider making an insurance claim, and take preventative measures to avoid further damage.
Call a Professional for Inspection
If you suspect that your roof has sustained storm damage, it’s important to call a professional roofing contractor for an inspection. Not all signs of roof damage are apparent, and a thorough inspection can identify hidden issues that could lead to costly repairs if left unchecked.
A roofing inspector will look for cracked or missing shingles, curled or peeling shingles, granule loss on the shingle surface, damaged soffit or fascia, and chimney issues.
Don’t risk climbing onto your roof to assess the damage yourself; leave it to the professionals who have the expertise and equipment necessary to safely evaluate any potential problems.
Consider Making an Insurance Claim
If you spot signs of storm damage on your roof, it is important to consider making an insurance claim. Homeowners insurance can cover the cost of repairs or replacements for damages caused by a severe storm like a hailstorm, hurricane, high winds, or heavy rainfall.
To file an insurance claim for roof damage, homeowners should submit proof of loss to their insurer.
When making an insurance claim for roof damage, it is essential to provide accurate information about your policy coverage, deductible amount, and contact information. An adjuster will need to inspect the damage themselves before determining if the repair costs are covered under your policy.
Keep in mind that you may be required to pay out-of-pocket expenses before receiving any reimbursement from your insurer.
Take Preventative Measures
If you spot any of the signs mentioned, it is best to take preventative measures to avoid further damage. This may include patching up leaks or replacing damaged shingles and broken gutters.
Regular roof maintenance can also help prevent storm damage altogether by ensuring that your roof is strong enough to withstand even the harshest weather conditions.
Additionally, it’s always a good idea to schedule a regular roof inspection by a professional roofing contractor. Having your roof inspected can identify any potential threats and make recommendations for preventative action.
You should also consider taking steps towards protecting your home from future storm damage, such as installing lightning rods or trimming trees near your property that could potentially fall on your roof during a storm.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s essential to keep an eye out for any signs of storm damage on your roof. Missing or damaged shingles, water leaks, and granule loss are all indications that your roof may have suffered damage during a storm.
If you spot any of these signs, it’s important to call in a professional for inspection and consider making an insurance claim if necessary. Taking preventive measures can also help prevent further damage and ultimately save you money in the long run.
Has your roof suffered damage from a recent storm? Don’t wait! Take action now and contact Vanguard for swift and reliable storm damage restoration.