Powerful storms do not always result in
obvious storm damage to your roof. Most of the time, you have to look at your
roof closely to spot storm damage. Once it's safe after a storm, you need to
check for storm damage. Keep an eye out for these seven signs of storm damage on
roofs.
- Damage To
Shingles
Hail can typically cause cracks, dents, or
even holes in your shingles, and wind can cause peeling, tears, and lifting
shingles. These damages to your shingles can lead to water leaks inside your
home. This damage can be difficult to view from the ground, allowing the water
damage to worsen the longer it goes unnoticed. That's why it's extremely
important to have a professional roofing company perform an inspection.
- Missing
Shingles
Missing shingles from your roof can signify
wind damage and hail damage. Any shingles that are peeling or cracked are at a
higher risk of being swept away from high-speed winds. While most shingle
manufacturers have a wind rating on their shingles, if your roof is older and
not well maintained, the shingles may not be able to withstand the strong storm
winds.
Shingles can also go missing due to hail
damage. The impact of the hail can cause even well-maintained shingles to be
knocked off your roof.
- Damage To
Other Roofing Material
Soffits, fascias, gutters, and flashing can be
damaged in a storm in addition to your shingles. Fittings could be damaged by
wind, gutters can be clogged with debris, flashing can be shifted out of place,
or all of these materials could be dented and damaged by hail. These roofing
materials are designed to keep water out of your home but any damage could
cause them to lose their integrity.
- Trees and
Other Debris On Your Roof
Obviously, you won't miss seeing a massive
tree that's landed on your roof. However, large limbs and other debris on your
roof could be difficult to see from the ground. While debris cannot only cause
a safety issue but can also cause damage to your shingles or structural
damage. If debris lands during the storm and then is moved around as the storm
continues, the debris could cause broken shingles, holes, and dents.
- Leaks In
Ceilings Or Attics
A massive leak is quickly noticeable, however, leaks that are just starting could be an issue too if you are not proactive in trying to fix them. Even the smallest things could be the beginning signs of
water damage. After a storm, go up to your attic to check for any discoloration
or dampness. Unattended water damage can end up causing major structural issues
throughout your home so it's best to check immediately after a storm and
schedule an inspection with a roofing contractor.
- Damaged
Chimney
Your flashing around your chimney can be
damaged in a storm, causing water to seep in. With damaged flashing, your
chimney may appear to be crooked. However, it's not a drastic angle, making it
difficult to spot if you aren't keeping an eye out for it.
- Granule
Debris
If you have asphalt shingles, you may notice a
thin horizontal line on your shingles or a pile of rubber-like granules after
several storms. This is a sign that your shingles have experienced granule
damage. The layer of granules on asphalt shingles is meant to protect your roof
and home from UV rays. If you have a granule problem with your shingles, it could
be caused by hail damage. Having a lack of granules on your asphalt shingles
can lead to improper weatherproofing.
It can be extremely unsafe to make your way on
top of your roof to check for storm damage. Instead of risking your safety,
have a qualified roofing contractor take a look to evaluate for storm damage.
ARAC Roof It Forward offers a free video roof inspection so we can show you
videos and photos of the damage on your roof from the safety of the ground. As
we show you the videos and pictures we will recommend repairs and go over the
associated costs. Our goal at Roof It Forward is to provide our community with
high-quality roofing solutions to keep you and your family safe in your home.
Schedule your free video inspection today!
