Step by Step Guide to Spotting Roof Damage After a Storm

After a big storm, it's smart to check your roof. We've all seen the news reports and maybe even had a tree branch land in the yard. While you might not be able to get on the roof right away, there are still things we can look for from the ground. This guide will walk us through how to do a basic roof damage inspection, and then what to look for if we can get a closer look. Doing this can help us spot problems early before they turn into bigger, more expensive issues.

Key Takeaways

• Start your roof damage inspection from the ground. Look for obvious signs like missing shingles or debris that might have fallen on your roof.

• If it's safe, get a closer look at your roof. Check for loose shingles, granule loss, and the condition of flashing around chimneys and vents.

• Properly documenting any damage found during your roof damage inspection is important for insurance claims and repair planning.

Conducting Your Roof Damage Inspection From The Ground

After a storm rolls through, the first thing we usually want to do is get a look at our roof. And hey, you don't always need to climb up there to spot potential problems. A good look from the ground can tell us a lot. We're talking about using our eyes and maybe a pair of binoculars if you've got them. It's all about being observant and knowing what to look for.

Identifying Missing Or Damaged Shingles

This is probably the most obvious sign of trouble. When the wind picks up, it can lift shingles right off your roof, or even break them. We need to scan the entire roof surface from our vantage point. Look for any spots where shingles seem to be gone entirely. Also, keep an eye out for shingles that look like they're curling up at the edges, or if they appear to be cracked or torn. Sometimes, a strong gust can just flip a shingle over, leaving the underside exposed. Any shingle that doesn't lie flat and smooth is a red flag.

Checking For Debris And Water Pooling

Storms often leave behind a mess, and your roof is no exception. We should check for any large branches, leaves, or other debris that might have landed on the roof. This stuff can trap moisture, which isn't good for your shingles over time. More importantly, we need to look for areas where water might be collecting. If you see any spots where water seems to be sitting, that could mean there's a drainage issue or a low spot that needs attention. This is especially true if you have a flatter roof style.

Sometimes, what looks like a small issue from the ground can be a bigger problem up close. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your roof's condition after bad weather.

Performing A Closer Roof Damage Inspection

After you've done a quick look from the ground, it's time to get a bit more hands-on, if it's safe to do so, of course. We need to get a better look at the actual roof surface. This means climbing up there, or if you're not comfortable with heights, perhaps asking a neighbor or a professional to take a closer look for you. We're looking for the finer details that might have been missed from a distance.

Examining Shingle Granule Loss

Shingles are covered in tiny granules, kind of like sand, that protect them from the sun and weather. When a storm hits, especially one with hail or strong winds, these granules can get knocked off. You might see them collected in your gutters or downspouts, which is a sign. But we also need to look at the shingles themselves.

• Look for bald spots: These are areas on the shingle where the granules are completely gone. You might see the darker backing material underneath.

• Check for cracked or torn shingles: Sometimes, the shingle material itself can crack or tear, especially if it's older or brittle.

• Observe granule patterns: Are there large patches of missing granules, or just a few scattered ones? A lot of missing granules in one area is more concerning.

We can even check how much granule loss is typical for your roof's age. A few granules in the gutter are normal over time, but a big pile after a storm? That's different.

Assessing Flashing And Sealant Integrity

Flashing is the metal or rubber material used around roof penetrations like chimneys, vents, and skylights. Sealant is what keeps those areas watertight. Storms can easily damage these parts.

• Inspect flashing: Make sure the metal is still in place and hasn't been bent, lifted, or torn. We want to see it lying flat and secure against the roof.

• Check sealant: Look for cracks, gaps, or areas where the sealant has pulled away from the roof or the flashing. If it looks brittle or dried out, it might need replacing.

• Look for water stains: Around vents or chimneys, any signs of water stains on the roof deck or the flashing itself could indicate a leak.

Damaged flashing or sealant might not seem like a big deal, but it's often where water finds its way into your home. It's a small detail that can lead to major problems if ignored.

We should also be mindful of any new dents or dings on metal flashing, which could be from hail. If you see any of these issues, it's a good idea to get them fixed sooner rather than later. It might just be a small repair now, but it could save you a lot of trouble down the road.

Wrapping Up Your Roof Check

So, we've gone through the steps to check your roof after a storm. It might seem like a lot, but taking a little time to look for damage can save you bigger headaches later. If you spot anything concerning, like missing shingles or dents, don't just ignore it. It's usually best to call in a professional roofer to take a look. They have the right tools and know-how to tell if something needs fixing and how to do it right. Keeping your roof in good shape means keeping your home safe and sound, so a bit of vigilance goes a long way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon after a storm should we check our roof?

It's best to inspect your roof as soon as it's safe to do so after a storm passes. Waiting too long could allow minor issues to become bigger problems, and we want to catch any damage early.

What if we can't get on the roof ourselves?

No problem at all! If you're not comfortable or able to safely climb onto your roof, we strongly recommend calling a professional. They have the right tools and experience to do a thorough and safe inspection for us.

Besides shingles, what else should we look for?

We should also pay close attention to things like the flashing around chimneys and vents, as well as any sealant. These areas are often weak spots and can be easily damaged, leading to leaks if not checked.