How Do You Identify Storm Damage on a Roof?

Begin your inspection from a safe distance on the ground. Use binoculars to get a closer look at your roof's surface. Look for shingles that are missing, cracked, or curling at the edges. Check for dark spots or dents on metal components, which can indicate hail impact.

Also, examine your gutters and the ground around your home. A pile of asphalt granules, which look like coarse black sand, often washes off damaged shingles. Look for broken tree limbs or other debris that may have struck the roof during high winds. These ground-level clues can reveal significant issues without you climbing a ladder.

Different storms cause distinct damage patterns. High winds can lift and tear shingles completely off the roof deck. They may also break the seals between shingles, leaving them vulnerable. Hail creates random, crater-like dents on asphalt shingles and can crack wooden or slate tiles.

Heavy rain exploits any existing weakness in a roof. It can overwhelm clogged gutters, leading to water backing up under the roofing material. Debris impact from wind-blown objects can puncture the roof surface. Knowing what to look for helps you describe the problem accurately to a roofer.

Your first priority is to prevent further water intrusion. If it is safe to do so, place buckets under active leaks and move furniture out of the way. You can use a tarp to cover visible holes from the inside, but exterior temporary repairs are best left to a roofer.

Document all the damage you see with clear photographs from multiple angles. This includes both the exterior signs and interior water stains. Take pictures from the ground and inside your home. Contact your insurance company to start the claims process and ask about their specific requirements. Then, schedule an inspection with a local roofer to get a repair plan.

• Mitigate interior water damage with buckets and tarps.
• Take extensive photos of all damage for documentation.
• Contact your homeowner's insurance provider promptly.
• Secure a professional roof inspection and written report.
• Avoid making permanent repairs before the insurer's inspection.
• Keep records of all communications and receipts.