Winter storms can wreak havoc on your home, especially your roof, and knowing the signs of damage helps you act fast to prevent bigger problems, saving you time and money on repairs.
Look for missing shingles, ice dams, or water stains on your ceilings, and don't wait to repair roof damage as small problems can quickly become expensive headaches. This guide will show you what to look for and what steps to take to protect your home.
Identifying 5 Common Types of Roof Damage
Roof damage can come in various forms after a winter storm so it is important to know what to look for to help you spot problems early to fix them quickly. There are 5 common signs of roof damage to look for, relating to shingles, leaks and water damage, flashing, gutters, and downspouts.
Visible Signs of Shingle Damage
Check your roof for missing or damaged shingles and look for sign such as:
- Bare spots where shingles have blown off
- Cracked, curled, or broken shingles
- Shingles that have lost their granules or have become chipped
You may see granules in your gutters or on the ground. This grainy material protects shingles from UV rays and without it, shingles wear out much faster. These damaged areas let water seep in, eventually leading to leaks and rot.
Internal Evidence of Leaks and Water Damage
You should also check your attic and ceilings for signs of water damage, including:
- Dark stains on walls or ceilings
- Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper
- Damp insulation in the attic
- Musty smells
These point to leaks that need fixing fast as if they are eft alone, they can lead to mold and wood rot. Water stains often show up after snow and ice melt so make the time to check these spaces often during cold weather.
Issues with Flashing, Gutters, and Downspouts
The next step is to inspect metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights, checking for:
- Loose or missing flashing
- Rust or corrosion
- Gaps that could let water in
You need to check gutters and downspouts too, making sure they're not:
- Clogged with leaves or debris
- Pulling away from the house
- Cracked or leaking at the seams
Damaged flashing and gutters fail to keep water away from your roof and walls effectively, resulting in more leaks and damage over time.
How to Respond to Storm Damage
Quick action is key if a winter storm has damaged your roof so here are steps to take to protect your home and start the repair process.
Temporary Measures to Prevent Further Damage
Cover any holes or damaged areas with a tarp to protect against rain and snow. Secure the tarp tightly to prevent it from blowing off and place buckets under any roof leaks inside your home. Next, move valuables away from wet areas and use fans to dry out damp spots quickly as this helps prevent mold growth.
If shingles are missing, you can temporarily nail down roofing felt as a short-term fix but don't try to climb on a wet or icy roof yourself. Instead, call a professional for help if any temporary repairs seem particularly tricky.
When and How to Document the Damage
Document the damage by taking photos and videos of all issues as soon as it's safe to do so. Get shots of your whole roof, plus close-ups of problem areas, and take pictures of the inside too, if there are leaks.
Additionally, write down what happened and when, noting any bad weather that led to the damage, and keep receipts for any emergency repairs you make. Having good documentation helps your insurance claim go smoothly and assists the adjuster in their inspection.
Consulting with a Professional Roofing Contractor
Get an expert roof inspection from a licensed contractor that can spot hidden damage you might miss. It is recommended to choose a local, licensed company with multiple, good reviews and the proper insurance. However, don't sign any contracts until you talk to your insurance company as you need to make sure what repairs are covered.
Ask the roofer for a detailed written estimate that lists all the necessary repairs and their costs. As a best practice, you should get at least three estimates to compare prices. Also ask the roofer about warranties on materials and labor.
Understanding the Insurance Claim Process
Filing an insurance claim for roof damage after a winter storm can be tricky so knowing what to expect can help you get fair compensation for repairs.
Initiating a Claim for Roof Storm Damage
Call your insurance company as soon as you notice roof damage and take photos and videos to document the damage, making a list of all damaged items. Also, keep receipts for any work done so you can be reimbursed.
Your insurer will give you a claim number and explain the next steps. Remember to ask about emergency repairs if needed to prevent more damage. Once the claim has been initiated they may send you forms to fill out which you should return quickly to speed up the process.
Working with Insurance Adjusters
An insurance adjuster will inspect your roof, assessing the damage and estimating repair costs. You will need to be present during their visit to point out all damage which gives you the chance to ask questions if you don't understand something.
Once the assessment has been completed, get a copy of their report and if you disagree with their findings, you can hire an independent adjuster for a second opinion. Stay in touch with your adjuster throughout the process to avoid anything being overlooked and to minimize any delays.
Compare repair quotes from trusted local roofers to what is stated in the insurance estimate. This helps you negotiate with your insurer if the amount seems too low.
Long-Term Solutions and Roofing Repair
After a winter storm, you need to fix your roof permanently by finding the right contractor who can do a professional, long-term repair.
Evaluating Roof Repair vs. Replacement Options
You might need to choose between fixing parts of your roof or replacing the entire roof. Small issues like a few missing shingles or minor leaks can often be repaired without much issue but if your roof is old or has major problems, a full replacement might be a better option.
To determine if you need a replacement, look for signs of a sagging roof, lots of missing shingles, or water damage in your attic. A roof replacement is a considerable expense to you need to think about your budget and how long you plan to stay in your home when deciding.
Hiring the Right Roofing Contractor for Your Project
When hiring a roofing contractor, a good first step is to ask friends for suggestions or look online for reviews. Once you have shortlisted a few possibilities, ask about their experience with storm damage and the tools and materials they’ll use.
A good contractor will explain the process and answer your questions clearly, as well as providing a detailed contract and timeline for the work.
Conducting Proper Roof Inspections Post-Repair
After the repair work is done, ask your contractor to walk you through the fixes, assessing your roof for even shingle placement and proper sealing around vents and chimneys. Check your attic for any signs of leaks and make sure your gutters are clean and free from blockages.
To maintain your roof, schedule regular roof inspections at least once a year as this helps catch small problems before they escalate.
Contact us today to arrange a roof inspection, emergency repairs, or to discuss a full roof replacement.
