The roof of your house endures all sorts of climatic changes throughout the year from strong winds to heavy rains, as well as scorching sun and massive snowfall. The cumulative effect of all these annual and relentless weather events is… damage to the shingles, flashing, and gutters… and leaks! These damages, if left unattended, can create significant roof damage and can therefore impact your home’s interior. If your city/town is hit with a storm then the roof has to withstand that too. It is very important to schedule regular roof maintenance so that your roof can handle harsh weather conditions as the years go by.
Here is everything that you should know about storm damage roof repair…
What You Should Do After Storm Damage?
After a strong storm passes through town, it’s important to go outside and assess the possible roof damage it might have caused. Only by assessing roof damages would you be able to determine the specific actions you need to take. While assessing the damages you must check everything, including the condition of your shingles, the flashing area(s), etc. Even a small leak caused by heavy winds or rains can cause big problems for you and your roof in the future.
Different Type Of Damage(s) That Storms Can Cause To The Roof:
Wind Damage– During storms the roof can get damaged due to high winds. Wind can crack shingles, weaken flashing, pry gutters from the roof, and even topple chimneys. Call Arko Storm Restoration Company to inspect your roof after a windstorm to make sure there is no damage that could cause problems later.
Falling Debris– If you have trees surrounding your house then expect that tree limbs, power poles and wind-driven debris can penetrate your roof deck and allow water to rush in, causing serious structural damage.
Hail– Sometimes, during storms, small hailstones can harm a roof by creating dents in the shingles, cracking tile, and causing hidden “hail bruises” on the underlayment.
Snow and Ice– Heavy snowpacks can put undue stress on rafters and the underlying roof structure, and freezing temperatures can loosen flashing and masonry.
Ice Dams– Melting snow and ice that refreezes along the roof’s edge can cause water to back up and seep under shingles or other roofing materials. Even small amounts of water trickling into your home or business can cause structural damage to walls, ceilings, flooring, framework and foundations.
How To Assess The Damage(s) Caused By A Storm?
- Staying Safe: Before moving ahead with any task, you must first take safety measures. If you don’t feel comfortable, you must avoid going on the roof to assess the damage. You can call professionals and have them inspect your roof.
- Inspect Your Roof Interior And Attic Area For Leaks Or Water Damage: When you observe the interior area of the roof and spot water stains appearing on your ceiling or walls, it is obvious that your roof needs repairs or replacement.
- Look For Signs Of Storm Damage On The Roof: Check the entire roof area for missing shingles or missing pieces of metal fascia, including any metal pieces displaced from around your chimney. Also, scrutinize the condition of exhaust pipes, valleys, outer edges or angles where the roof meets the walls.
- If The Storm Produced Hail, Check Shingles Closely: Hail damage commonly causes small dents on the shingles which are easily visible on their outer layer.
Getting In Touch With Your Insurance Company:
Once you have assessed all the damages that have been caused to your house, the next step is to make an insurance claim.
Before calling the insurance company you need to consider a few important points. Take detailed notes and multiple photos of all damage(s) to the area— both interior and exterior. These images will be the best source to assess damages. Along with images, have a copy of all your important housing documents ready. You might have to submit all of these to the insurance agent in order to complete the claim.
Report the damages to your insurance company as soon as possible. Insurance companies typically have a limit of filing claims within one year of damage. It is best to contact your insurance company by phone as well as email.
Document all your contacts in a folder to help keep conversations, details, and dates organized.
Hire A Trusted And Reliable Roofing Contractor:
Once you have submitted the claim, your insurance agent will assess the damages and analyze the cost of repairing and/or replacement. As soon as they assess the damage, you can hire a reliable roofing contractor and get the work started. Most contractors have experience with storm-damaged homes, so it’s wise to ask your contractor to be present to make sure you get a fair assessment. Depending on the intensity of the damage caused, your contractor will suggest either a roof repair or roof replacement. Always ensure that any changes in the original estimate are recorded in writing. The project is finished after it has passed city/local inspection and you’re satisfied with the completed work.
Summary:
Whenever a storm hits your home, it can be a really devastating experience. Arko Storm Restoration Company is licensed and insured, helping homeowners cope with the restoration process. Arko handles storm damage repairs in a quick and efficient manner. Our goal is to protect your place and bring it back to the way it was before the storm hit!