Powerful winds, heavy rains, scorching heat, and massive snowfall; your home’s roof takes a beating 365 days a year. The cumulative effect of these relentless weather events can cause significant roof damage and left unchecked, impact your home’s interior. Not sure what you’re looking for? Check out these quick tips to make sure your roof remains in healthy condition!
Rain Damage
Rain damage is both the most common and most noticeable type of storm damage that happens to your roof. Think of water as your roof’s lifelong enemy. When leaks caused storms or the old age of your roof start to expose the internal layers of your roof to moisture, problems begin. Mold, rot, leaks and structural damage are all signs of rain damage and indicators that your roof may need to be replaced.
Hail Damage
Hail is another major threat to the integrity of your roof. If the hail is severe enough, the damage will cause problems right away. But, there are other times when the damage can easily go undetected for the next few storms until the true extent of the damage is realized…
Performing a thorough inspection after a hail storm can help you avoid the common pitfalls that come along with hail roof damage.
Wind Damage
Some of the biggest dangers of strong wind storms are the deterioration of your shingles and the possibility of debris falling onto your roof and damaging it. Shingles can start to lift, come off completely or be punctured and leave spots open for leaks come the next rainstorm. As roof damage from wind storms isn’t always obvious – especially in the case of missing flashing in the crevices in your roof – it’s important to do a thorough inspection after strong winds rattle your home.
Assessing the Damage
Sometimes, the signs of roof damage will be obvious. These scenarios include water spots on a ceiling and curled or missing roof shingles. You may also see broken or damaged roof flashing, wet walls, water issues around your home’s exterior, or winter ice damming. In these cases, you’ll want to look at:
- Shingle condition.
Missing shingles are one obvious sign, but pay attention to the granule buildup on your shingles as well as early signs of damage. Hail storms can cause dings and dents in asphalt shingles and should be noted as well. - Missing flashing
Look for missing flashing along the edges of the roof and along skylights, vents, and chimneys. Loose or peeling sealant along those same penetration points can also be an indication of damage.- Water damage
Do a quick check for obvious water damage in the attic or along the ceiling.
- Water damage
Unfortunately, there are other times when the signs of damage aren’t so obvious. If you’re ever unsure, getting in touch with a professional roofing expert is best practice!
