Our homes keep us safe, even during rough and unsafe weather conditions.

But unfortunately over time, it can take a toll on your roof and cause heavy damage if not assessed and treated early.

So the next time a severe storm passes through, here’s what you need to know about assessing the damage.

 

Rain

Leaks are quite common after a heavy rainstorm. The heavy rainfall, in combination with the severe wind, can also cause:

• • cracked shingles

• • mold

• • damage from freefalling debris

To access the damage, you need to look for a few key features. Once the rainstorm has passed, and it’s safe to be outside of your home, walk the perimeter of your house and look for dented and damaged shingles on the ground. Then, check the roof for any curled and missing shingles.

If your roof has a chimney attached, make sure it’s not leaning to one side. If it is, this is a clear sign your roof did not hold up during the storm and is at risk.

Also, check the gutters for debris.

Lastly, look for visible signs of ‘crumbling’ if your roof is made of cement. Call an expert if you fear the storm has caused a large amount of wreckage.

 

Hail

Hail can get up to baseball sized proportions, so it’s no wonder that after a hailstorm, sometimes the damage can be irreversible.

After a heavy bought of hail, be on the look for mailbox damage and splatter marks on or near the driveway. If you see these signs, there’s a good chance your roof took quite a beating too. It’s time to take a closer look at your roof if you suspect the hail has dented your roof.

 

Snow

If you live in an area that’s subject to heavy snowfall often, you may already understand what to look for. If not, here are a few signs that the storm left behind than just a white blanket of snow.

The buildup of snow on your roof can be heavy and just as detrimental as hail or intense rain, so don’t underestimate it.

Make sure to look for icicle formations and large amounts of snow buildup on the roof outside of the home. Inside, look around for leaks and check the attic for condensation. These could be signs that the damage has already started to seep its way in the interior of your home.

 

Conclusion

Looking for these indicators is a good way to keep you out of harm’s way the next time you see storm clouds headed your way.

If you see these signs of damage on your roof or within your home after the storm has passed, call a roofing contractor immediately. The damage can only get worse. A qualified roofing contractor can help with your home improvement and home renovation needs, but they can also take a closer look at the damage done after a reckless storm and help you find the best solution.