Getting a storm damage assessment as soon as possible keeps the problems from getting worse. Learn what to do after storm damage to your roof.
Follow These Steps After a Storm Damages Your Roof
One of the worst sounds is lightning and thunder, followed by a loud thud on the roof. Unfortunately, it could be a large tree branch crashing onto your property. Prepare to invest in storm damage roof repair when inclement weather gets the best of your building.
Storm damage is classified in many ways, including:
- Wind: High winds are destructive to your roofing materials and can loosen or rip them from the surface entirely. Those who live in tropical or hurricane regions are most vulnerable to the effects of wind damage to roofs. In these areas, wind speeds exceed 74 miles per hour.
- Hail: Although hail storms usually last 15 minutes or less, they can leave dents and cracks on your roof’s surface. In turn, this makes your property susceptible to leaks, mold, and pests.
- Water: Rainwater on a roof that lacks proper drainage spells trouble for property owners. When water is left unaddressed, it seeps through the underlayment and causes wood rot.
- Debris or Fallen Branches: If heavy rain and strong winds cause debris or tree branches to fall onto your property, the damage can be significant. Depending on how large fallen objects are, repairs may not suffice, and you may need a replacement.
Regardless of how minor or severe you think the damage is, it’s best to take action right away. Here’s what to do after storm damage to your roof:
Schedule a Roof Inspection
If you’re asking, “How do I know if my roof has storm damage?” the signs may not be noticeable right off the bat. That’s why it’s vital to get professional roofing contractors involved after a storm. It’s better that they check and find no damage, than to assume your roof is fine. Whether you notice storm damage or you don’t, to be sure, call a legitimate roofer to inspect the roof.
Hire a Roofing Contractor for Repairs
If your inspector confirms that wind and rain damaged your roof, don’t wait to invest in the appropriate repairs. Untreated damage creates a slew of other issues that will only cost you more time and money in the long run. A licensed and insured roofing company can pinpoint what needs to be done and perform repairs or a replacement in a streamlined manner.
File an Insurance Claim
Don’t wait to file an insurance claim, either. After you notify your insurance company of the damages, they’ll send an insurance adjuster over to perform another inspection. You must follow your homeowner’s insurance policy claim requirements correctly. By being proactive and filing a claim as soon as possible, you’re more likely to get adequate compensation.
Why It’s Important To Address Damage Immediately
Your roof is exposed to daily wear and tear. In addition to storm damage, it also endures UV rays, thermal shock, and other elements. Roofing problems are inevitable, but if you fix issues early on, they won’t come back to bite you later. Plus, it keeps you in good standing with your insurance provider.
Neglecting roof repairs and necessary maintenance negatively affects your roof’s value. When your roof becomes too weak and vulnerable, your insurance provider can deny you coverage. Save yourself the hassle, and address roofing worries with a sense of urgency.
New Image Roofing Eliminates Your Roofing Worries
New Image Roofing knows Atlanta weather. We also know that your roof’s integrity and durability are essential to its long service life. Even if you have no idea what’s next, you don’t have to—New Image knows what to do after storm damage to your roof.
Call our team over to assess the damage at no cost to you. We’ll create a plan to safely and efficiently transform your roof. Schedule your free inspection today.