Summer Storms: Signs for Roofing Damage and How to Handle it.
The weather is heating up and the summer storms are starting to roll in. It’s important to be prepared for when these storms hit, especially if you live in an area that is prone to severe weather. One of the most common forms of storm damage is roofing damage.
In this blog post, we will explore the different types of roofing damage that can occur during a summer storm, as well as some tips on how to deal with it.
Hereis what we will explore in this piece:
- Summer Storms
- Signs of Roofing Damage
- You See Damage, What Should I Do Next?
- How to Deal with Insurance After a Storm
- How to Prevent Damage Next Time
- Next Steps
Let’s get started!
Summer Storms
Throughout the South, summer storms are a common occurrence. If you’re a homeowner they also can mean damage to your roof and throughout your home. Keep in mind that different elements of summer storms can affect your roof differently and leave clues of damage.
Winds:
Storms can bring high winds that lead to downed trees and limbs. These falling objects can cause damage to your roof, gutter system, and windows. More importantly, high winds can cause shingles to blow off or crease throughout the roof, which can lead to leaks and failure.
Hail:
Storms can also produce hail which is one of the most common causes of roofing damage. Hailstones can range in size from a small pebble to a softball and can cause serious damage to your roof.
Flooding:
Another type of damage that can be caused by summer storms is flooding. Floodwaters can seep into your home through cracks in the foundation or other openings. This water can cause serious damage to the structure of your home as well as your belongings. What might not be as obvious, is high volumes of water can overwhelm your roof and lead to heavy leaks.
Lightning:
While it’s not as common, summer storms can also bring lightning. This can be especially dangerous if your home is struck by lightning. Lightning strikes can cause fires that can destroy your home and put your family at risk.
Regardless of what weather you encounter during a summer storm, it’s important to keep a vigilant eye on your roof for signs of roofing damage.
Signs of Roofing Damage
Missing or Damage Shingles:
If you notice that your shingles are starting to curl, crack, or break, it’s important to have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible. These damaged shingles are more susceptible to wind and hail damage and can lead to further damage to your roof.
Gutter Damage:
Another sign of potential roofing damage is gutters that are starting to pull away from your home or have holes in them. This type of damage can allow water to seep into your home, causing further damage.
Water Stains:
If you notice water stains on your ceiling or walls, this is a sign that your roof has been damaged and needs to be repaired. Water stains can also be a sign of flooding, so it’s important to have them checked out by a professional as soon as possible.
Sagging Roof:
If you notice that your roof is starting to sag, This could be a sign of structural damage but often is caused by water damaged sheathing from a leak or inadequate ventilation. A sagging roof can be caused by several things, including water damage, so it’s important to have it checked out as soon as possible.
Debris on Roof:
After a storm, it’s not uncommon to find debris on your roof. This can be anything from tree limbs to pieces of asphalt shingles. It’s important to remove this debris as soon as possible as it can cause further damage to your roof.
You See Damage, What Should I Do Next?
If you see one or multiple signs of roof damage, the best thing to do is to contact a professional roofing contractor. They will be able to inspect your roof to determine the extent of the damage and recommend the best course of action to get your roof whole. Many roofing contractors in your region provide a FREE Roofing Inspection, so make certain you choose the finest-rated provider. They can also assist you in deciding if you should file an insurance claim.
How to Deal with Insurance After a Summer Storm
If you need to file an insurance claim, it’s important to act quickly. Most insurance companies have a time limit on when you can file a claim after the damage has occurred. The first thing you should do is take pictures of the damage, this will help support your claim. Once you have all of this information, you can contact your insurance company and start the claims process.
After you’ve filed your claim, an adjuster will come out to inspect the damage. They will then determine how much your insurance company will pay for the repairs, or or, may cover the complete cost of the entire roof!
If you choose Roof MD, we will help you through this whole process. We have the experience of working with home insurance companies to know what evidence is needed and what is a fair payout for repairs. We’re happy to fight for you to make sure you get the resources you need to repair your roof the right way.
How to Prevent Damage Next Time
Now that you know how to handle roofing damage caused by summer storms, you can take steps to prevent it from happening in the future.
Clean Your Gutters:
One of the best ways to prevent damage to your roof is by keeping your gutters clean. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and seep under your shingles, leading to damage.
Trim Your Tree:
If you have trees near your home, it’s important to trim them regularly. Overhanging tree limbs can fall and damage your roof during a storm.
Secure Outdoor Furniture:
During a storm, strong winds can pick up and throw around patio furniture and other outdoor items. To prevent this from happening, make sure to secure your outdoor furniture to the ground or bring it inside during a storm.
Book a Routine Roof Inspection:
Another great way to prevent storm damage is by booking a routine roof inspection. A professional roofing contractor can inspect your roof for any potential problems and make repairs before they become an issue.
Next Steps
Summer storms can cause extensive damage to your home, including your roof. It’s important to be aware of the signs of roof damage so you can act quickly and prevent further damage. If you suspect that your roof has been damaged, it’s important to call a professional roofing contractor like Roof MD.
We will come out to your home and inspect the damage, and then provide you with a FREE roofing estimate for repairs or replacement.
