How to Spot Storm Damage to Your Roof

After a major storm such as Hurricane Ian, it’s important to inspect for storm damage to your roof. If not properly cared for, storm damage can lead to a host of problems, including leaks, mold, and increased energy bills. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to spot storm damage to your roof so you can get the repairs you need to keep your home in top condition.

1. Look for Shingle Damage

One of the most common types of storm damage is damage to shingles. Shingles can be cracked, torn, or missing altogether. If you see any damaged shingles, it’s important to have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Here are a few ways to look for shingle damage

Look for Missing, Cracked, or Curling Shingles

One of the first things you should look for when checking your roof for shingle damage is missing, cracked, or curling shingles. If any of your shingles are missing, it’s important to replace them as soon as possible as this leaves your roof vulnerable to water damage. Cracked or curling shingles can also be a sign of damage and should be replaced.

Look for Granules in the Gutters

Another way to check for shingle damage is to look for granules in the gutters. Granules are small pieces of stone or gravel that are used to provide weight and durability to shingles. If you notice an excessive amount of granules in your gutters, it’s a good indication that your shingles are beginning to break down and will need to be replaced soon.

Look for Daylight Coming Through the Roof

If you have an attic, another way to check for shingle damage is to go into the attic and look for daylight coming through the roof. This is a sure sign that your roof is leaking and needs to be repaired or replaced immediately.

Look for Water Stains on the Ceilings

Finally, one of the most obvious signs of a roof leak is water stains on the ceilings. If you notice any water stains in your home, it’s important to have your roof inspected as soon as possible to determine the cause and make the necessary repairs

2. Check for Missing Flashing

Flashing is the material that seals the gaps around vents and chimneys. If the flashing on your roof is missing or damaged, it’s an indication that your roof has been damaged by the storm and needs to be repaired.

Why is Flashing Important?

Flashing is important because it helps to keep water from entering the home through the roof. Water infiltration can lead to a number of problems, including mold and mildew growth, wood rot, and structural damage.

How to Check for Missing Flashing

If you suspect that your roof may be missing flashing, there are a few things you can do to check. First, take a look at the shingles around the perimeter of the roof. If you see any gaps or cracks, it’s possible that the flashing has come loose. Another way to check is to look for any water stains on the ceiling or walls inside the home. These could be signs that water is entering the home through the roof.

What to Do if You Find Missing Flashing

If you find that your roof is missing flashing, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible. You can either hire a professional contractor to do the work, or you can attempt to do it yourself if you feel comfortable doing so.

Inspect Your Gutters and Downspouts

Your gutters and downspouts play an important role in protecting your home from water damage. If they are clogged with debris, they won’t be able to do their job properly. Inspect your gutters and downspouts after a storm to make sure they are clear of debris so they can continue to protect your home from water damage.

3. Check for Debris

The first step in inspecting your gutters and downspouts is to check for debris. Debris can build up in your gutters over time and cause them to become clogged. This can lead to water damage to your home as well as insect infestations. To remove debris from your gutters, you will need a ladder, a pair of gloves, and a garbage can.

Inspect the Gutters and Downspouts

Once you have removed all of the debris from your gutters, you will need to inspect them for any damage. Look for cracks, holes, or rust spots. If you find any damage, you will need to repair it before moving on.

Clean the Gutters and Downspouts

After you have inspected and repaired your gutters, you will need to clean them. You can do this by using a garden hose or a pressure washer. If you are using a garden hose, be sure to use a gentle setting so as not to damage your gutters.

Check the Drainage

Once you have cleaned your gutters and downspouts, you will need to check the drainage around your home. Make sure that the ground around your foundation is sloped away from your house so that water does not pool near your foundation and cause flooding or water damage.

4. Schedule An Inspection for Storm Damage to Your Roof

Many homeowners don’t realize the importance of scheduling a roof inspection after a major storm. Your roof is one of the most important parts of your home, and it’s essential to keep it in good condition. Strong winds and hail can cause damage to your roof, including missing or damaged shingles. If left unchecked, this damage can lead to leaks and other problems. Here are a few other reasons why to schedule a roof inspection after a major storm.

To Prevent Future Problems

Even if your roof appears to be in good condition after a storm, there may be hidden damage that could cause problems down the road. By having your roof inspected, you can catch any potential problems early and avoid costly repairs in the future.

To Get an Insurance Claim

If your roof is damaged in a storm, you may be able to get an insurance claim. Most homeowners insurance policies cover damage from wind and hail, but you will need to have an inspection report from a licensed roofing contractor in order to file a claim.

To Keep Your Warranty Valid

If your roof is under warranty, you will need to have it inspected after a storm in order to keep the warranty valid. Most manufacturers require that roofs be inspected within a certain time frame after a storm in order to maintain the warranty.

After a major storm, it’s important to inspect your roof for damage. Storm damage can lead to a host of problems if not properly cared for, so it’s important to know how to spot it. In this blog post, we’ve outlined four signs of storm damage so you can get the repairs you need to keep your home in top condition. By following these tips, you can rest assured that your home will weather any future storms that come its way.  Contact Heart of Florida Roofing for any roofing needs.