How To Check Your Roof For Storm & Wind Damage

Severe weather, such as thunderstorms, hurricanes, blizzards, or strong winds, can wreak havoc on your roof, even if the damage isn’t immediately visible. Identifying and addressing roof damage quickly can save you from costly repairs down the line. Here’s a guide to help you assess your roof for potential damage after a storm, along with tips on when to call a professional roofing contractor.

6 Steps For Identifying Post-Storm Damage

1. Perform a Visual Inspection from the Ground

Many roofing companies offer a completely free roof inspection to take care of this for you, as well as experts with the training to assess the damage up close. If you choose to do a basic, visual inspection first, here are some common signs to watch for from the ground:

Missing or Dislodged Shingles: Strong winds can lift or completely remove shingles.

Curled or Cracked Shingles: Shingles that are bent or cracked can no longer protect your roof effectively. 

Granule Loss: Look for excessive granules in your gutters or around your home. This indicates worn shingles.

Damaged Flashing: Check for bent, loose, or missing flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights.

Standing Water: Roofs with inadequate drainage often struggle with pooling water after heavy rain, particularly in areas where the surface is uneven. Blocked gutters can also lead to rainwater overflowing and seeping beneath the shingles.

2. Check for Debris on the Roof

Storms often leave debris like branches, leaves, or other objects on roofs. Even if your shingles appear intact, heavy debris can cause hidden damage or weaken the structure. Large branches can puncture your roof, creating leaks or structural instability.

3. Inspect Your Attic

Your attic can offer clues about roof damage that isn’t visible from the outside. Check for:

Water Stains or Leaks: Dark spots or dripping water indicate that your roof’s protective barrier has been compromised.

Daylight Through the Roof: If you can see light streaming through the roof boards, you likely have holes or gaps caused by the storm.

4. Look for Signs of Gutter Damage

Gutters are an integral part of your roofing system, and their condition can also indicate roof damage: 

Detached or Sagging Gutters: Strong winds can pull gutters away from the roofline.

Clogged Downspouts: An unusual amount of shingle granules in the gutters or downspouts suggests your shingles are deteriorating.

5. Inspect the Roof Perimeter

Examine the edges of your roof, including fascia and soffits, for signs of damage:

Loose or Missing Fascia Boards: Storm winds often target the edges of the roof, causing fascia boards to loosen or break.

Damaged Soffits: Cracks, dents, or missing panels in the soffits should be addressed immediately.

6. Check Nearby Structures and Property

Damage to nearby structures, such as fences, sheds, or trees, can indicate the intensity of the storm. If these structures sustained damage, there’s a higher likelihood that your roof may have as well.

When to Call a Professional Roofing Contractor

While some homeowners choose to handle a visual inspection before seeking an outside opinion, certain signs of damage require the expertise of a professional:

Hidden Structural Damage: A professional can assess the structural integrity of your roof, ensuring no damage is overlooked.

High or Dangerous Areas: Avoid climbing onto your roof unless you are trained and have proper safety equipment.

Comprehensive Repair Needs: If you notice multiple areas of damage, a professional can provide a thorough, free roof inspection and recommend cost-effective solutions. 

ProRoofing Can Help Restore Your Roof After a Storm

If you’ve experienced a storm or strong winds, ProRoofing is here to help. Our team specializes in:

Free Storm Damage Inspections: We provide detailed evaluations to identify all types of roof damage! We want your home and the loved ones inside it to be safe, so we will check out your roof for free.

Roof Repairs and Replacements: Whether you need minor fixes or a full roof replacement, we use top-quality materials to restore your roof.

Insurance Assistance: We’ll help you navigate the insurance claims process, ensuring you get the coverage you need for storm damage repairs.

Contact ProRoofing today to schedule your free roof inspection. Don’t wait until small issues become costly problems — let us help you protect your home and have peace overhead!