Whenever your area experiences a serious storm, it’s a good idea to do a thorough check of your roof to see if you need any repair work done. If your roof has been damaged, it’s imperative that you have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
Any damages that have occurred will only grow worse the longer you ignore them. This is because the roof will be more vulnerable to further damage should you get hit by another storm. The following are a few tips for checking your roof for storm damage without risking your safety by going up onto your roof:
Look for debris on the roof – If there’s a lot of debris on the roof, such as leaves and branches, you’ll want to have it cleaned off. Such debris can cause water to become trapped within the roof, causing potential water damage. It could even lead to the growth of mold or moss as a result. Not to mention that if you see branches up on the roof, there may be damage to the shingles those branches are resting on.
Look for dents – If you experienced a hail storm, then look for dents in your shingles, gutters, downspouts, and whatever flashing you can see from the ground. Because hail can be quite damaging, make sure that you check your windows and siding for signs of hail damage as well.
Look for missing shingles – Storms involving high-speed winds can tear the shingles right off your roof. Circle around your property to look for missing shingles. If shingles are missing, it means that the roof is vulnerable to water leaks and damage–and the surrounding shingles are more likely to be torn off as well. You’ll want to have missing shingles replaced as quickly as possible.
Look for damaged shingles – Shingles that are torn, cracked, or buckled should be replaced as well. Although not as severe as missing shingles, shingles that are damaged are more likely to be torn off by high-speed winds. They are also more vulnerable to potential water leaks during rainstorms.
Look for water leaks – Check your ceilings for any water stains, which indicate that there is a leak somewhere. Go up into your attic and look for sunlight coming through the roof. This is a sure sign that there’s a leak. If you smell a musty odor, then there’s a chance that there’s mold growth as a result of a leak.
Look for damaged gutters – Don’t forget about how important your gutters are. If they’ve experienced any damage during a storm, such as if they’ve separated from each other or from the roof, then it will make it more difficult for them to do their job, which is to collect rainwater and disperse it away from your home. Damage to your gutter system can cause water to leak through your roof, siding, and foundation the next time it rains.
These are a few tips for what to look for when inspecting your roof for damage following a bad storm. Having your roof regularly inspected and repaired when necessary will help to reduce the risk of damage during a storm.
Remember, only do a visual inspection from the ground. If you think you see roof damage but aren’t sure, schedule a professional inspection. If you’re in need of roof repair or would like to schedule a roof inspection, be sure to contact us at All-Nu Construction today.