Safely Inspecting Your Roof After a Storm

Recent storms have made history with their severity and impact, affecting not only homes in the storm's path but also causing damage nationwide. From relentless winds to debris, roofs across the country are feeling the strain. It's crucial for homeowners to schedule post-storm inspections promptly, allowing roofing contractors like yourself to carry out any required repairs promptly. Here are some tips to offer your customers as they evaluate storm-related damage.

Start inside, ideally in the attic, during daylight hours.

The first clear indication of an issue would be sunlight seeping through the plywood decking, suggesting significant holes that require fixing.

In the absence of visible holes, use a flashlight to examine the decking for dark stains, streaks, and sagging, which may result from moisture.

External Inspection: From ground level, you should have a clear view of most, if not all, of your roof. Take a walk around your house and inspect the roof for any signs of damage.

It is essential to replace missing shingles promptly.

Cracked or curled shingles are often a result of strong winds or flying debris.

Watch out for dark patches where shingle granules have worn off. These patches not only affect the roof's appearance but also expose the shingles to the sun, potentially drying out the asphalt and causing leaks over time.

Check for bent or loose flashing. Properly sealed flashing around chimneys, vents, and other roof openings is crucial to prevent water leakage.

Keep an eye out for debris on the roof. Even seemingly minor items like branches can dislodge granules from shingles over time or conceal cracks they caused upon impact.

Climbing Higher: If you feel at ease climbing a ladder and the weather conditions permit, you can closely inspect your roof for:

Loose nails or nails protruding above the shingle surface are at risk of coming loose in the next storm.

Accumulated gutter debris can lead to ice dams in the future. You can opt for gutter cleaning services from your roofing contractor if you prefer not to tackle it yourself.

Flashing on the upslope (or back) of the chimney and other penetrations is more visible from the roof's vantage point.

If you discover any damage: Contact a reliable local roofing contractor immediately. By addressing storm damage promptly, you can ensure your roof is better prepared for the next inevitable storm.