Storms cause millions of dollars in roof damage across the country each year. High winds, heavy rain or snow, and large pieces of hail cause major problems to residential and commercial roofs. If a major storm hits your area, have a roofing professional inspect your roof for problems like the following.
Shingles, Chimneys, and Vents
High winds can damage your shingles as well as roof flashings and chimneys. Even vents can be affected by strong winds or airborne debris. After every windstorm, it is a good idea to do a quick visual check of your roof from the ground. Walk around the house to see if shingles have been lost, torn off, or damaged. This is one of the most obvious problems that can be fairly easy to diagnose. Left untreated, missing shingles can lead to more shingle loss in the future or a possible leak when it rains.
Leaks
A leaky roof is sometimes hard to find until you notice wet areas in your attic or the walls of your home. If the moisture stays inside the walls, you might not even find the damage until it creates a major issue that requires significant repairs for the home’s structure. If you cannot visibly detect a roof leak, symptoms include damp spots on interior ceilings and walls, a mildew odor, or pooling moisture on the floor of rooms where a roof leak has occurred.
Wind Damage
High winds from thunderstorms, straight line winds, tornados, or blizzards can literally tear your roof apart. The damaged area might be small or contained, but left unrepaired, it can grow bigger in time. A professional assessment and prompt repair will address the problem before it gets worse and costs more to address.
Additionally, high winds can throw tree branches, electrical poles, and other debris at your home. The damage from these is often significant, leaving gaping holes in your roof or collapsing it completely. If your roof is severely damaged, your home is left vulnerable to the elements. Because of this, it’s important to have the problem addressed as quickly as possible.
Downspouts and Gutters
Often related to roof damage are problems that develop with downspouts and gutters. They can break due to high winds, or they may be impacted by loosened roof shingles or crumbling chimney bricks. They may also simply get clogged by debris tossed around in the storm and break if they’re too full or left for too long. While downspouts and gutters may seem a fairly minor part of your home, they direct water away from your home’s foundation. If that water is no longer draining away from your home, it may damage your home’s foundation.
If you notice roof damage after a storm, it’s important that you contact a roof repair contractor as soon as possible for a comprehensive evaluation. They’ll be able to diagnose how your roof and adjoining structures may have been harmed by adverse weather conditions. Get any repair work done soon before another storm comes along to make things worse.
The roof on your home is essential to keep everyone and everything inside dry, comfortable, and safe. However, Mother Nature can sweep through and cause a lot of damage to your home and the surrounding area. Don’t let your roof issues get out of control. If you suspect a problem, have it assessed and repaired as soon as possible to keep yourself and your family safe.
