The worst roof storm damage isn’t always apparent. You may have to go looking for it. Inspect your roof periodically before, during, and after storm season. The sooner you identify roof damage, the sooner you can contact a qualified roofing contractor to provide necessary repairs before the next storm rolls in and the damage worsens.
Unsure where to begin? Use the I.O.U. method when checking for roof storm damage: Inside, outside, and up the ladder.
Inside
Start in the attic, if it’s accessible.
If you see sunlight showing through plywood, you have holes in your roof. Holes are signs of serious roof damage and can lead to leaks and water damage.
If you find stains or streaks on walls or flooring, this could be a sign of poor ventilation or moisture from rain. Speak with a qualified roofer to determine the cause.
If there is any sagging, it’s likely there is a weakening of the deck, from moisture. This can be a sign of a structural problem and should be looked at by a qualified roofer.
Outside
Walk around your house, examining the roof from the ground for signs of damage.
If you spot missing shingles, they must be replaced as soon as possible. Missing shingles are often caused by wind damage.
If you notice cracked or curled shingles, speak with a qualified roofer to determine if a repair or reroof is best for your home and budget. This is often caused by high winds and flying debris.
If you see dark patches on your roof, it means granules have come off of the shingle. Granules protect the underlying asphalt from weather, including UV rays. The shingle may dry out and crack without them.
If you see debris such as a branch sent soaring by high winds to your roof may not be a big deal at all. But it could be covering a crack it caused as it landed. Either way, over time, it can rub the granules loose from your shingles. It’s important to keep your roof clear of debris.
Bent or detached flashing could have been caused by high winds or debris. Flashing helps keep water from chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations and should be thoroughly sealed to prevent water intrusion.
Up the Ladder
You can get a better look at your roof up close if you are comfortable climbing a ladder and the weather conditions allow you to do so safely.
Look for loose nails shaken out of place by wind. Loose nails or nail heads raised above the shingle surface should be repaired as soon as possible.
Check for debris in your gutters. Clogged gutters can contribute to ice dams later in the year. Your roofing contractor may provide gutter cleaning services if you’re uncomfortable doing the job yourself.
Use the I.O.U. method frequently throughout the year to keep your home as safe as possible to avoid roof storm damage.
John Hogan Roofing provides free estimates and easy financing, using our in-house team of craftsmen. Call us at (727) 353-6232 or schedule a free estimate.
