How to Safely Check for Roof Damage After a Storm

Begin your roof inspection safely from the ground level. Utilize binoculars to identify missing or broken shingles, dents, and trash. Check for indications such as granules in gutters or watermarks indoors. Refrain from climbing onto the roof; it is dangerous. A licensed roofing expert can give an in-depth inspection, particularly for concealed damage. It is best to act fast before more problems arise.

For a long-lasting roof, call Turnkey Roofing Contractors for dependable service and products. Call now for a free quote to cover your house!

Why Inspect Your Roof After a Storm?

Storm damage can be hard to find. What appears to be fine on the ground could be covering up some Storm damage that is not always obvious. What seems good enough on the ground could be covering up some significant harm above. Even a tiny storm can be sufficient to loosen shingles, cause tiny leaks, or weaken flashing.

These issues tend to exacerbate over time if left unaddressed. Prompt, professional inspections will be your best ally in preserving your majestic, money-saving investment. By catching damage early, you’ll spare yourself from needing expensive repairs.

Don’t dismiss warning signs such as a drooping roof, since these usually indicate serious structural problems that require urgent repair.

Prevent future damage. Regular inspections will give you the maximum life from your roof, making your home or business safe and maintaining its value.

A professional contractor is the only one who can give you the detailed assessment you need. Not only does this shrewd strategic move give you peace of mind, but it also sets the stage for your next steps of action.

Essential Gear for Safe Roof Inspection

Following a storm, inspect your roof with care. Ensure you use the appropriate equipment and adhere to safety precautions to conduct a safe inspection. Be prepared to guard yourself and make an efficient check. Here’s how we simplify it step by step.

1. Wear Protective Safety Gear

Safety first. Begin by wearing gloves to safeguard your hands. Choose non-slip shoes to avoid slipping on a slippery surface, and opt for flexible but safe steel-toed boots. Wear a hard hat to prevent falling objects and safety goggles to shield your eyes from dirt and branches. Lastly, dress for the weather to be comfortable when working outdoors.

2. Use a Sturdy Ladder

A good ladder is necessary for roof inspections. Ensure that it will hold your weight and reach the roof when set on firm, level ground. Inspect it for damage before use. Three points of contact are necessary to be safe—two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. A stable ladder will provide a safe and effective inspection.

3. Have a Spotter

Do not climb on roofs alone. Always have a spotter to steady the ladder and assist in case of a fall. Communication is key—let your team know when you are in motion, and they should assist. Their presence under the ladder provides stability and security.

Initial Ground Assessment

Before going up or calling a professional, the best thing to do to check for storm damage is to examine your roof from the ground. A walk around your home gives you a good general idea of any problems without endangering your safety. Nearly 40% of all wind and hail damage insurance claims are roof-related, so it’s worth catching them early.

1. Look for Missing Shingles

After a storm, visually scan your roof from the ground for missing or damaged shingles. Note the type of shingles—such as asphalt, cedar shake, or slate—to be replaced. Look for loose shingles that the wind might blow away. Take note of your findings to help in securing correct repair estimates for your insurance claim.

2. Check for Debris Accumulation

Following a storm, there may be leaves and twigs accumulating near your foundation. This might translate to plugged drainage systems or gutters, holding back water, and allowing for water pooling, which can damage your roof. Avoid this by developing a plan to mitigate.

3. Inspect Gutters and Downspouts

Inspect your gutters for misalignment, looseness, or clogs. Functional gutters will guide water away from your foundation to avoid damage. Compile a list of all repairs and cleanings required.

4. Identify Sagging Roof Areas

Begin by inspecting your roofline from the ground. Examine for dips or sagging since these normally represent structural impairment because of wood rot or excessive moisture. Designate these points for professional verification.

Interior Inspection: Spotting Leaks

The sooner you notice prospective roof damage, the better. Your roof shelters you from leaks, and should it fail, you may suffer water damage, mold, and structural problems. Checking from within can assist in catching issues before they result in large leaks.

1. Examine Ceilings and Walls

Look at your ceilings and walls for water damage by checking for yellow or brown stains that indicate moisture. Peeling paint or bulges may indicate trapped water, which can lead to more significant problems.

Joint cracks or where ceilings intersect with walls may also admit water. Watch for these signs and move quickly before the damage gets done.

2. Check for Water Stains

Water stains may signal previous or ongoing leaks that must be corrected. Pay attention to the vicinity of chimneys, vents, and skylights since these tend to leak. The size and location of the stains may indicate wear or impending leak danger. Stains on structural components typically signify active leaks needing prompt repair.

3. Identify Musty Odors

Musty smells usually point to concealed water problems or mold growth. Watch your nose, especially in attics or where vents are located, because the odors are usually strongest there. Because mold grows best in moist, concealed areas, these odors can lead you to places that should be inspected.

4. Look for Mold Growth

Mold growth is a sign that there has been a great deal of moisture. Inspect for stains or discoloration on ceilings, walls, and attics, especially in humid or poorly ventilated spaces. Mold can weaken your home and lower indoor air quality. Inspecting insulation for moisture or mold, as well as wet insulation, can lower energy efficiency by up to 20%, states the NRCA.

Staying Safe While Assessing Roof Damage

Following a storm, check your roof for damage to keep your home safe. A ground assessment is beneficial, but a legitimate roof assessment is important. Discovering issues like cracked shingles or leaks early will pay off in the long run by saving you time and money. Take pictures for insurance purposes and seek a professional if you do find something amiss. Storms can take a toll on roofs, so these steps are important for safety.

If you are considering a new roof, Turnkey Roofing Contractors offers excellent service and quality. Call us for a free estimate to protect your investment!