How Do You Determine Storm Damage?

April 14, 2022

Checking for roof damage is one of the first things each homeowner should do after a storm. Roof damage is possible even if there is no clear water inside your home. While it may be tempting to climb to the top, Capstone Bros Contracting advises homeowners to avoid doing so whenever feasible. If possible, check roof damage from ground level. Before using a ladder, try utilizing a pair of binoculars to improve your vision.

Roof Wind Damage

Roof wind damage may be difficult to detect, particularly if the adhesive seal that serves as a water-shedding surface is destroyed. When inspecting the roof for damage, always be cautious. For assistance, contact a skilled roofing contractor. When choosing shingles for a new roof, it is crucial to examine the wind coverage offered by each manufacturer. You would need to make an insurance claim if the winds that caused the shingle damage were more significant than the manufacturer’s wind coverage. If they were not, submit a claim with the shingle manufacturer.

Signs of wind damage include:

Missing Shingles

When wind speeds surpass 60 miles per hour, shingles that are already damaged or peeling are at risk of blowing away. Although roofing manufacturers’ warranties include extreme winds, the projected wind speed that a roof can withstand is predicated on a brand-new, well-maintained roof.

Visible Granule Loss

Granule loss is average, particularly with a new roof. Granule loss occurs in horizontal lines when storm damage occurs. This shows where the shingle seal was shattered.

Visible Water Infiltration

The majority of apparent leaks that pierce the building’s ceiling are caused by wind damage. However, in some cases, both the shingles and the roof underlayment deteriorate, allowing water to enter the attic or upper floors of the house.

Loose Debris

Any loose material surrounding your property, such as yard garbage, outdoor furniture, and so on, might indicate that something hit your roof during heavy winds. Clear debris as quickly as possible and analyze the effect by looking for typical broken shingle patterns to reduce danger.

Signs of Hail and Snow Damage

Hail originates in heavy thunderstorm clouds at 32°F and below, the same temperature range where snow can form. Hailstones are ice balls that are most harmful when they are between 1 inch and 1.75 inches in diameter. They can pierce through solid things due to their tiny size.

Signs of hail damage include:

Missing or Hail-Damaged Shingles

Hail damage can even cause the loss of shingles in good condition before the storm. Even if shingles are still in place, they may need to be replaced. Look for cracks and dents with a distinctive circular form indicating where the impact occurred.

Clogged or Broken Gutters and Downspouts

After a storm, clogged gutters should be cleared out as quickly as possible. Water pours right into the building’s foot from a damaged gutter. This can degrade the foundation over time, making the structure hazardous. Also, check for bending and dislocation in all gutters and downspouts.

Ice Dams

Ice dams can form on shingle roofs that have not been adequately maintained. Snowmelt freezes on the roof’s eaves, causing ice dams to form. This ice ridge keeps more water from melting snow from exiting the roof, leading to leaks. The majority of ice dams are visible.

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