Roof Storm Damage Checklist: A Comprehensive Guide

After a storm, your roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of your home. It’s important to inspect and address any potential damage promptly to prevent issues like leaks, structural damage, or mold growth. This checklist will guide you through the steps to identify and address roof damage effectively.

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Why You Should Inspect Your Roof After a Storm
Storms, including thunderstorms, hurricanes, and tornadoes, can unleash a barrage of destructive forces on your roof. These forces may manifest as heavy rainfall, intense winds, hail, and airborne debris, all of which have the potential to cause significant damage to your roofing system. To avoid the escalation of minor issues into costly repairs, it is essential to conduct regular and thorough inspections of your roof following any severe weather event. By diligently following this checklist, you will be equipped to comprehensively assess the extent of damage, promptly address immediate concerns, and make well-informed decisions about the necessary repairs to restore the integrity of your roof.

1. Safety First
Before inspecting your roof, ensure your safety:

• Wait until the storm has completely passed and any potential hazards have settled.
• Never climb on your roof if it is wet or unstable.
• Use binoculars to inspect from the ground when possible.
• Consider hiring a professional for a thorough inspection, especially if you suspect serious damage. Request our free roof inspection here.

2. Inspect the Exterior
Start your inspection from the ground and gradually move closer:

• Check for missing shingles: Look for shingles that have blown off, especially around the roof’s edges and ridges.
• Identify damaged shingles: Cracked, curled, or dented shingles may indicate wind or hail damage.
• Inspect the flashing: Check around chimneys, vents, and skylights for bent, loose, or damaged flashing.
• Look for granule loss: Excess granules in gutters or downspouts suggest damage to asphalt shingles.
• Examine gutters and downspouts: Check for dents, clogs, or signs that the gutters have pulled away from the roof.
• Check for debris: Look for fallen branches, leaves, or any debris that may have landed on your roof.

3. Check for Leaks Inside Your Home

• • Inspect the attic: Look for signs of water stains, mold, damp insulation, or light coming through the roof.
  • Check ceilings and walls: Inspect rooms directly below the roof for water spots, discoloration, or peeling paint.
  • Check the floors: Be on the lookout for any signs of moisture along the floor and baseboards.
  • Smell for mold or mildew: Musty odors can indicate a hidden leak or trapped moisture.
    4. Examine the Roof’s Structure
    • • Look for sagging: Any noticeable sagging could indicate structural damage.
      • Check the ridge line: The ridge should be straight. Any bends or dips might signal underlying damage.
      • Inspect chimneys and vents: Ensure these structures are not leaning or showing signs of separation from the roof.

5. Inspect the Skylights and Roof Accessories

• • • • Skylights: Check for cracks, broken seals, or signs of water intrusion around the edges.
      • Solar panels: If you have solar panels, inspect them for cracks or damage.
      • Satellite dishes and antennas: Make sure they’re still securely attached and haven’t shifted or bent.

6. Identify Hail Damage
Hail damage can be difficult to detect but is often severe. Look for:

• • • • Dents or bruises: Check shingles for small round dents or soft spots that indicate hail impact.
      • Cracked shingles: Hail can crack or puncture shingles, leading to water infiltration.
      • Damage to metal surfaces: Inspect vents, flashing, gutters, and downspouts for dents or bends.

7. Evaluate the Ventilation System

• • • • Inspect attic vents: Check for damage or blockages that could impact ventilation.
      • Examine roof vents and turbines: Ensure they are still intact, properly secured, and not obstructed by debris.

8. Review the Roof Warranty and Insurance Policy

• • • • Understand your coverage: Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand what storm damage is covered.
      • Check warranty terms: Some roofing warranties may cover certain types of storm damage.

9. Document All Damage

• • • • Take photos and videos: Capture detailed images of all visible damage to help with insurance claims and repair estimates.
      • Keep a written record: Note the date, type of storm, and the extent of the damage observed.

10. Contact Professionals

• • • • Call a roofing contractor: Consider hiring a professional to conduct a comprehensive roof inspection, especially if you’re uncertain about the extent of the damage. Request a free inspection here.
      • Consult your insurance company: Report the damage and file a claim if necessary.

Tips for Preventing Future Storm Damage

• • • • Trim trees and branches: Keep trees trimmed to reduce the risk of branches falling on your roof.
      • Secure loose items: Remove or secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and equipment that could become airborne during a storm.
      • Invest in storm-resistant roofing: Consider upgrading to impact-resistant shingles or materials designed to withstand severe weather.

When to Seek Professional Help

• • • • If the damage is extensive or you’re unsure about the condition of your roof, contact a roofing contractor.
      • Professional inspections can identify hidden damage that may not be visible from the ground.
      • Many roofing companies offer free storm damage inspections and can help you navigate the insurance claims process.

Call Your Homeowners Insurance Provider
In case you discover substantial storm damage on your roof, it’s crucial to promptly contact your insurance company to initiate the insurance claim process. Keep in mind that certain insurance providers may impose a time limit for filing insurance claims after a storm. How to get insurance to pay for a roof replacement?