How To Spot Roof Damage After A Storm Without Going Up on a Ladder

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Storm Damaged Roof

by Chad Janisch, owner of the Roofing Annex With hurricane and tropical storm season here, the roofs on our homes will be working double-duty shielding against powerful winds, heavy rain and even large hail. According to the National Weather Service, tropical storm winds can cause severe damage to a roof. Costly roof and home repairs can be avoided by doing a roof check after every severe storm. Our roofs give us telltale signs that something is amiss and you don’t have to go up on a ladder to spot them. Here are three ground level signs to look for that could mean your roof suffered storm damage and needs some professional care:

Photo by Randen Pederson with usage permission under Creative Commons license: chefranden

  • Granules on the ground. Asphalt shingles are coated with fine, gravel-like particles. Check around your downspouts and driveway for shingle granules loosened by heavy rains. A loss of shingle granulation indicates roof deterioration.
  • Damaged Shingles. Use binoculars and survey your roof from the ground for areas that sag or dip; missing, loose, lifted, curled, or warped shingles or shakes; pitted, broken, cracked, or dented tiles; detached flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, dormers, etc.; and damaged overhangs or eaves.

Photo by Brian Robinson with usage permission under Creative Commons license: DolphinDans

  •  Interior Leaks.Carefully inspect the attic and your home’s ceilings and walls for any signs of water penetration. Peeling or blistering paint or wallpaper and water stains are indications of water leaking down from the roof.

Photo by Clair P. with usage permission under Creative Commons license: rockinfree

If you find any of these signs, it’s important to act fast and call a roofing company to have a certified roof inspection performed. Most roofing companies offer a free storm damage evaluation. Storm damage to roofing is covered by most home insurance policies if reported within the claim filing time frame indicated in your policy. Get more expert advice for your home.    

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