The Reality of Storm Damage
Storms can leave behind more than just fallen branches and scattered debris. They often cause roof damage that, if ignored, can lead to expensive repairs down the road. Unfortunately, roof damage isn’t always immediately visible, especially to the untrained eye. Whether you own a home or a commercial building, knowing what to do after a storm is essential for protecting your roof and your property.
Storm damage is hard to spot and can cause lasting issues for residential and commercial properties if left unaddressed.
Farha Roofing’s Storm Damage Guide
Step 1: Prioritize Safety
Before inspecting anything, make sure the storm has fully passed and that conditions are safe. Look out for:
- Downed power lines
- Loose debris
- Standing water or slippery surfaces
Avoid climbing onto the roof immediately after a storm. Wet or damaged roofing materials can be unstable and dangerous. If you believe there is major roof damage, especially if it’s causing interior leaks, call a professional who has the tools and experience to inspect your roof safely and patch the damage until full repairs can be made.
Step 2: Start with a Ground-Level Inspection
You can identify many signs of damage without ever leaving the ground. Walk around your property and look for:
- Missing, curled, or lifted shingles
- Pieces of roofing material on the ground
- Damaged flashing or vents
- Fallen branches or impact points
- Sagging areas along the roofline
For commercial properties, also check for:
- Membrane punctures (on flat roofs)
- Pooling water or drainage issues
Take clear photos of anything unusual. This will be useful for insurance claims and professional inspections.
Step 3: Check Inside the Property
Roof damage isn’t always visible from the outside. Head indoors and inspect ceilings and upper levels for:
- Water stains or discoloration
- Dripping or active leaks
- Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
- Musty odors (a sign of trapped moisture)
In commercial buildings, pay special attention to:
- Ceiling tiles
- HVAC areas
- Storage spaces where leaks might go unnoticed
Step 4: Inspect Gutters and Drainage Systems
Your gutters often reveal what’s happening on your roof. Make sure to look for:
- Granules from shingles accumulating in gutters
- Dents or separation from the structure
- Blockages caused by debris
Proper drainage is critical, especially for larger or flat roofing systems, so any disruption should be addressed quickly, preferably by a professional.
Step 5: Document Everything
Thorough documentation can make a significant difference for property owners when filing an insurance claim. Be sure to:
- Take photos and videos from multiple angles
- Note the date and time of the storm
- Record specific areas of concern
Keep all documentation organized and backed up digitally if possible.
Step 6: Avoid Temporary DIY Fixes That Could Worsen Damage
It’s tempting to patch a problem quickly, but improper fixes can lead to larger issues and even voided warranties. Avoid:
- Walking on visibly damaged sections
- Using sealants or tar without proper knowledge
- Covering damage without identifying the source
If immediate action is necessary (like stopping active leaks), use temporary measures such as tarping, but only if it’s safe to do so.
Step 7: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Even if the damage seems minor, a professional inspection is crucial. Roofing experts can identify hidden issues such as:
- Structural weaknesses
- Underlayment damage
- Compromised flashing
- Long-term water intrusion risks
A professional assessment ensures nothing is overlooked and provides a clear plan for repairs or replacement.
Step 8: File an Insurance Claim
If the storm caused significant damage, contact your insurance provider promptly. You will need to provide:
- Your documentation
- Inspection reports
- Repair estimates
Acting quickly helps streamline the claims process and prevents further complications.
Once it’s safe, you can complete a ground-level inspection to find major damage, but it’s a good idea to get a professional inspection within the next couple of days to spot hidden damage.
Storm Damage? Farha Roofing Can Help.
Storm damage isn’t always obvious, but ignoring it can lead to serious structural problems and higher repair costs over time. Following our step-by-step approach ensures your property remains safe, secure, and protected after every storm.
When in doubt, always rely on experienced professionals, like our team at Farha, to guide you through the inspection and repair process. Contact us today!
Ignoring damage is costly and dangerous in the long run. Trust Farha Roofing to be your roofing partner during storm season.
FAQs
1. How soon should I inspect my roof after a storm?
You should perform a ground-level inspection as soon as it’s safe. A professional inspection is recommended within a few days to catch hidden damage early.
2. Can I inspect my roof myself?
You can safely check for visible damage from the ground, but climbing onto your roof is not recommended due to safety risks and potential structural instability.
3. What types of storm damage are most common?
Common issues include missing shingles, hail damage, leaks, damaged flashing, and debris impact, especially from fallen branches.
4. Will my insurance cover roof damage?
Most homeowners and commercial property insurance policies cover storm-related damage, but coverage depends on your policy. Proper documentation and a professional inspection will help support your claim.
5. What happens if I delay roof repairs?
Delaying repairs can lead to water damage, mold growth, insulation issues, and more costly structural problems over time.