Heavy rains can wash away shingle granules and lead to leaks that infiltrate ceilings. This type of storm damage increases the risk of water infiltration that promotes mold growth, degrades building materials and compromises insulation.
Documenting storm damage is crucial for establishing insurance coverage and estimating roof replacement costs. Veteran roofers can help homeowners navigate the insurance process and advocate for fair coverage based on legitimate damage. Contact Storm Damage Roof Repair Murfreesboro TN for professional help.
When storm damage to the shingles occurs, it’s essential that you know how to identify it and promptly schedule roof repairs. This can prevent the damage from escalating, and it may also prevent expensive water damage that could result in mold or extensive damage to your home’s interior structure.
Early indicators of storm damage to shingle roofing are cracked, blistered, or curling shingles. These shingles can be easily replaced by professional roofers, and doing so will prevent moisture from seeping through to the inside of your house and damaging walls or insulation.
Cracked shingles are usually the result of high winds, although they can be the result of faulty installation or poor maintenance as well. Broken shingles can allow water to leak through and cause ceiling or wall damage, so they should be replaced immediately.
Another early sign of damage to shingles is a sudden loss of granules from the shingle. These granules are used to help keep the shingles in place and protect the underlying material from sun or weather damage. A loss of granules from the roof can be caused by a number of factors, including wind and hail damage.
If you notice these signs of shingle storm damage, it’s important to schedule an inspection right away. The roof repair specialist will assess the damage and determine if it is minor enough to wait, or if a full roof replacement will be required.
The first thing to do after a severe storm is to inspect the exterior of your home and take pictures or videos of the damage. This will be useful later when you file an insurance claim. Make sure to include a detailed description of the damage with your documentation, as this will help the insurance company process the claim quickly and efficiently.
Next, you’ll need to gather replacement shingles that match the existing shingles in style and color. Using a pry bar, carefully lift the shingle above the damaged one to expose the roofing nails. Carefully remove the roofing nails, then loosen the shingle and slide the new shingle in place. Ensure that it is properly aligned with the adjacent shingles, then secure it with roof cement and hammer in the nails. Finally, caulk around the edges of the shingle to provide a tight seal and further protect the roof from water damage.
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is the waterproof barrier that safeguards the most vulnerable areas of your roof, such as chimneys and skylights. It is also designed to seal joints and cracks. Damage to your roof’s flashing is a serious problem that leads to leaks, structural damage, and mold growth. Flashing damage should be addressed immediately.
Storms bring high winds and rain, which can cause flashing to loosen or crack. A quick inspection by a professional can help prevent future damage to your home’s interior and exterior.
Water Leaks
The most obvious sign of flashing damage is the presence of leaking water inside your home. Seeing spots of water on the ceiling or walls, as well as finding damp insulation or mold, are all signs that you need to inspect your roof and its flashing.
If left unrepaired, damaged flashing can allow water to seep into chimneys and other structures on your roof, leading to leaks and water damage. The leaks will become worse over time, resulting in more costly repairs and potential health hazards like mold and mildew.
Another common sign of storm damage to flashing is the appearance of rust or corrosion on the metal parts of your roof. If you notice rust or corrosion on the flashing, it is likely time to replace it.
A common cause of rust or corrosion on flashing is the installation of improperly sized roofing materials in the first place. After a severe storm, it is a good idea to replace the flashing with new, properly sized roofing material to ensure that it will not corrode or leak.
Energy Bills
If you notice an increase in your home’s energy bills after a storm, this may be due to storm damage that is allowing heat or air to escape from the house. Inspecting the roof, gutters, and downspouts for dents or cracks can help pinpoint the source of this problem.
After a storm, it is important to hire a qualified roofing contractor to assess and repair the damage. Choosing a reputable company that has experience in handling storm damage can help you avoid fraudulent contractors, out-of-town contractors, and scams.
Damaged Gutters
Your home is a big investment, and protecting it from storm damage is a crucial step to maintaining its value. A well-maintained roof and gutter system can enhance the curb appeal of your property, while preventing costly repair and replacement projects down the road. A good inspection routine is the key to spotting and repairing potential issues before they become serious problems that require professional attention.
When it comes to storm damage, there are a number of warning signs that you should be looking out for. One of the most obvious is water damage. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including leaks and floods. Water damage can be very destructive, and it can also cause mold growth and structural damage to your house. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to take immediate action to prevent further damage and protect your home.
Another sign of potential storm damage is a damaged gutter system. If your gutters are damaged or clogged, it can cause rainwater to back up and enter the house. This can lead to flooding in the basement, foundation damage, and even water damage to other parts of your home. If you notice any signs of gutter damage, it is important to have them repaired immediately.
Lastly, if you see any dents on your roof, it may be a sign of hail damage. Hail can range in size from 0.2 inches to 1.75 inches, and it can be very damaging to your roof. If you see any dents on your roof, be sure to call your insurance provider and file a claim as soon as possible.
It is important to regularly inspect your roof and gutters for damage, especially after a severe storm. If you notice any signs of damage, it is important to have them repaired as quickly as possible to avoid costly repairs in the future. Regular inspections can help you spot any potential issues before they become serious problems, and it can also help to save money on future maintenance costs. A well-maintained roof and gutters can enhance the curb appeal of your property, protect it from moisture damage, and increase its resale value.
Damaged Skylights
Skylights bring natural light into a home or commercial building, but they are also prone to weather damage. If your skylights are damaged by a storm, it’s important to get them repaired immediately to prevent water leaks and other problems. A roofing contractor can assess the damage and repair it accordingly.
Leaks from a damaged skylight can cause extensive roof damage over time. These leaks can damage shingles, lead to mold growth, and even compromise the structural integrity of your property. If you see any signs of leaking from your skylight, such as discolored patches on your ceiling or walls, it’s essential to take immediate action. This will help avoid more expensive repairs and eliminate health hazards.
In addition to leaking, your skylights may be cracked or broken from wind-driven debris. You can use clear plastic sheeting to temporarily cover the damaged area until a professional can come and repair it. Additionally, animals and birds can often fly into skylights, causing glass to crack. Regular inspections of your skylights and roof are essential to identify any potential issues and address them promptly.
Your skylights are also vulnerable to hail damage. If your skylights are made of tempered glass, they can easily be shattered by hail. It’s important to have your skylights inspected by a specialist after a severe hailstorm to determine the extent of the damage and ensure that it is adequately repaired.
The installation of skylights in your roof can improve the energy efficiency of your property. However, the proper maintenance of these features is essential to their long-term performance. Regularly cleaning your skylights and surrounding areas helps remove any dirt or debris that could lead to clogs, which can contribute to leaks. In addition, you should have the flashing and seals of your skylights regularly inspected and repaired to ensure they are working properly. By following these simple tips, you can keep your skylights in good condition and protect your roof from serious damage. If you are interested in adding skylights to your home or commercial building, contact us today to learn about our Vtech products.
