According to research, most roofs are designed to last at least 30 years before they need to be replaced. However, the weather has always been unpredictable since the beginning of time. In spite of the weather forecasting and other factors to help us get prepared, there can always be split-second changes about the weather.
This is probably one of the most common reasons why roof repairs and replacement have always been a common service offered by roofing companies in America. Regardless of which state you’re living in, you, as a homeowner, probably have already had a fair share of dealing with after-storm roof damages.
In this blog, we will share with you a comprehensive roof damage checklist after the storm. The idea is for you to have ample knowledge and readiness on what to do and how to deal with your affected roof after the storm.
Identifying The Type Of Roof Storm Damage
Wind
This is probably the most common damage you may encounter on your roof after a storm, especially from places where hurricanes frequently pass by. But sometimes, even just a regular storm with strong wind is able to damage a roof.
A strong wind can tear up, lift or curl roofs like shingles and metal roofing. This causes the other materials composing your roof exposed which can eventually damage the inside of your house.
Hail
Hail storms don’t last long, but their adverse effects can be big enough to damage roofs such as knocking it off, putting holes, and tearing up. Thus it can also cause discolorations on the roofing. If any of this happens, there’s no doubt that a roofing expert’s assistance is needed for the repairs.
Standing Water
What causes standing water is when there is no proper drainage like gutters and downspouts installed to redirect water down and keep the roof dry after rain. On the other hand, it can also be because the roof has already passed its prime and the materials need replacement which causes sagging that makes spaces for the water to become stagnant in the roof until it dries naturally.
Debris
Depending on the intensity of the storm, debris can end up on your roof. And without proper inspections, it cannot be removed which can make the roof’s structure prone to breaking down faster as it is more exposed to outdoor elements in a closer manner.
What To Do After The Storm?
You should do the following to your roof after a storm to ensure that there is no damage, and also ensure you and your family’s safety as the occupants of the house.
Safety
Ensure that you, the homeowner, and your family, are safe and sound after the storm. Once you ensure your safety, you can proceed with inspecting your house, especially the roof.
Make An Assessment
Make a visual assessment of the overall current condition of your house after the storm. Check if there are any damages like if the power line is cut off or if any tree branches have fallen on your roof. Of course, if you can, go up to your roof to properly assess and check any debris. Inspect any broken areas or parts, and any notable damage to mention when you call the professionals.
Also, inspect the gutters and downspouts for clogs and damages. And inside the house, inspect the ceiling of your attic to see if there is a leakage or any sign of water pots.
Tarp Your Roof
Chances are, the roofing contractor can’t go immediately to your house for roof repairs or replacement. In most cases, this will be scheduled and visitation and assessment would be made first before the actual work of fixing to be done. If this is the case with you, you can put a tarp first on your roof, especially on the parts or areas of the damage. This would be a temporary remedy to protect you inside your home and for the damage not to get bigger while you wait for the contractor.
Call The Experts
Scheduling a roof inspection and repairs or replacement to be done by professionals would be the best solution to ensure that your roofing problem would be resolved. They can also give you a comprehensive assessment, report, and advice on the work that needs to be done with your roof. A good roofing company doesn’t just do repairs and replacements of the roof, but they ensure that the job they do promotes safety and consistency with the work to make your house be in its pristine condition once again.
File For Insurance Claim
Roof repairs or replacement is not cheap which is why calling your insurance company to file a claim is necessary to aid your expenses. Thus, contractors can also help you with this if you need further assistance as they also partner with insurance companies for roofing services and works.
Do A Regular Inspection For your Roof
Whether there’s another storm or not, having your roof inspected and maintained is the most responsible thing to do as a homeowner. This is to prevent future damage and ensure that the severity of any future damage to your roof would be avoided if another storm hit again.
Make The Right Decision
After a storm or not, have your roof regularly inspected and maintained to avoid the future inconvenience that may require you at a big expense. The Grace Family Roofing Company is a family-owned and operated business in York, PA. We provide a free estimation and ensure high quality of work for your house roofing. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
