
If you notice storm damage to your roof, you can use our storm damage roof checklist to assess the extent of damage and determine whether it is time for a new roof.
Detecting early signs of storm damage
There are several ways to tell if you should get your roof repaired ASAP. For example, you might notice that some trees in your neighborhood have fallen leaves or limbs. Or you may notice that green leaves have been stuck to the siding or in the center of the road. Yet, despite these signs, you may not think you need to get your roof repaired immediately.
If you notice any of these signs, it's time to schedule a roof repair. The damage may not be visible at first, so you need to call a roof repair company like Summit Roofing & Construction to inspect it. However, if you notice any dents or bruises, it could signify storm damage. Cracked shingles or tile roofing are signs that your roof has sustained storm damage. Depending on the severity of the storm damage, you may need to repair it right away.
Detecting damage caused by hailstones
When you do storm damage roof repair, one of the first steps you should take is determining the extent of damage caused by hailstones. Hailstones vary in size, and some are denser than others. So if you have a flat roof, hailstones can damage it.
Hailstones are tiny, and the size and shape of each stone determine the degree of damage they cause. Detecting hail damage is essential because the damage caused by hailstones can vary from a pea-sized dent to a massive area damaged by water. While most hailstones are small, they are still damaging to your roof. To detect hail damage, a roof inspector should examine soft metal parts of the roof, skylights, metal valleys, and the actual shingles and ridges.
Overlaying damaged shingles
An overlay roof is a common way to replace a roof after a storm. This option is less expensive and more convenient than replacing a roof entirely. In addition, it eliminates the need to assess the sheathing for water damage from the second layer of shingles. However, it doesn't fix the root of the problem. An overlay can leave unsightly holes and dents under the new shingles, and it also increases the chances of moisture accumulating in the space between the shingle layers.
Overlaying damaged shingles is also a practical option, but it may not be the best choice for all kinds of storm damage. While adding an extra layer of shingles to your existing roof solves the immediate issue, the new shingles will only add weight to the structure and won't be as durable as those from a tear-off. So before you consider this option, make sure to consult a roofer to determine the condition of your roof first.
Filing an insurance claim
If a storm has damaged your roof, you must document the damage by taking pictures and videos. Writing the cracks is essential to file an insurance claim for storm damage roof repair. Take photographs and keep receipts of emergency services and food. If you have to pay for roof repair, keep receipts to prove the repair cost.
Contact your insurance company to determine if the storm is covered and how long you have to file a claim. Make sure you file a police report and fill out the paperwork required to file a storm damage claim. Once you've filled out the paperwork, you can submit it to the insurance company and begin the claim process. The insurance agency will provide you with a roof inspector to document the extent of the damage.