Storms can be brutal on roofs. Whether it’s strong winds, heavy rain, or hail, even a single storm can cause damage that isn’t always obvious at first glance. If left unchecked, minor damage can turn into major repairs or even require a full roof replacement. Knowing what to look for after a storm can help you catch problems early and prevent costly repairs down the line.
We’ve seen firsthand how storm damage can escalate if it’s ignored. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help homeowners recognize the warning signs and take the right steps to protect their roofs.
How to Inspect Your Roof for Storm Damage?
Checking your roof after a storm is important, but safety should always come first. If you see visible damage, fallen debris, or sagging sections, avoid climbing onto the roof yourself. Instead, conduct a ground-level inspection and check for warning signs before calling in a professional roofer.
- Inspect Your Roof from the Ground
- Check Your Gutters and Downspouts
- Look for Water Stains on Ceilings and Walls
- Inspect Your Attic for Leaks or Moisture
1. Inspect Your Roof from the Ground
Assessing storm damage is to walk around your home and look up at your roof from different angles. Missing shingles, dark patches, or flashing that appears bent or loose are signs of potential damage. If there are tree branches or other debris on the roof, the impact may have weakened the structure. Using binoculars can help you get a better look without putting yourself at risk.
2. Check Your Gutters and Downspouts
Your gutters and downspouts often reveal the first signs of roof damage after a storm. If you notice granules from shingles collecting in the gutters, it means your shingles are deteriorating. Cracked or detached gutters can also prevent water from draining properly, leading to leaks or water pooling around your home’s foundation.
3. Look for Water Stains on Ceilings and Walls
Interior damage can be a sign that your roof has been compromised. After a storm, check your ceilings and walls for yellow or brown stains, bubbling paint, or peeling wallpaper. These are clear indicators that water is seeping through the roof, possibly from missing shingles or damaged flashing. A musty odor in the house could also be a sign of hidden moisture and mold growth.
4. Inspect Your Attic for Leaks or Moisture
If your attic is accessible, this is one of the best places to check for roof damage after a storm. Look for wet insulation, mold growth, or daylight peeking through gaps in the roof. These signs indicate that the roof structure has been affected and may need immediate repairs. Even a small leak can worsen over time, leading to costly water damage and mold issues.
Signs of Storm Damage on Your Roof
Storm damage can appear in different ways. Some signs are easy to spot, like missing shingles, while others—such as hidden leaks or structural issues—might take time to reveal themselves. Below are the key signs that your roof has suffered storm damage and needs immediate attention.
- Missing or Damaged Shingles
- Granule Loss
- Broken Gutters, Downspouts, and Flashing
- Attic Damage
- Water Damage on Walls or Ceilings
1. Missing or Damaged Shingles
High winds, especially in severe storms, can tear shingles off your roof or cause them to lift and curl. Missing or loose shingles leave your roof exposed to the elements, allowing water to seep in and cause interior damage. If you notice patches where shingles are missing or find them scattered in your yard, that’s a clear sign your roof needs repairs.
2. Granule Loss
If your roof has asphalt shingles, you might notice small, sand-like granules collecting in your gutters or around your home after a storm. These granules help protect shingles from the sun and water damage, so when they start wearing off, your roof becomes more vulnerable. Hail, heavy rain, and strong winds can accelerate granule loss, leaving shingles brittle and more likely to leak.
3. Broken Gutters, Downspouts, and Flashing
Your gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing water away from your roof and foundation. After a storm, check for:
- Dented or cracked gutters that can’t drain water properly
- Loose or detached downspouts
- Flashing (thin metal sheets around chimneys, vents, and skylights) that’s bent, missing, or pulled away
Damaged gutters or flashing can lead to water pooling on your roof, increasing the risk of leaks and structural damage.
4. Attic Damage
Your attic can reveal early signs of roof damage that aren’t visible from the outside. After a storm, check for damp insulation, mold growth, or water pooling. If daylight is shining through small gaps in the roof, it means the roof’s structural integrity has been compromised. Attic damage should be addressed quickly to prevent further deterioration.
5. Water Damage on Walls or Ceilings
One of the most serious signs of storm damage is water stains on your ceilings or walls. If you see discoloration, peeling paint, or bubbling drywall inside your home, your roof is likely leaking. Over time, leaks can weaken the structure of your home, cause mold growth, and lead to costly interior repairs.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Wind Damage
If you notice any signs of roof damage after a storm, it’s important to act fast. Delaying repairs can lead to more extensive damage, higher costs, and potential insurance complications. Here’s what to do next:
- Contact a Professional Roofer
- Document the Damage You Found
- File an Insurance Claim
- Schedule Your Roof Repairs
1. Contact a Professional Roofer
The safest and most effective way to assess storm damage is by calling a professional roofing contractor. An experienced roofer will inspect your roof thoroughly, identify all damage (even the hidden issues), and recommend the best course of action.
At Oscar & Rosa, we provide expert roof inspections and storm damage repairs in San Bernardino County. If you suspect your roof has been damaged, schedule a professional inspection with us today to ensure your home stays protected.
2. Document the Damage You Found
Before making any repairs, take clear photos and videos of the damage. Capture missing shingles, bent gutters, water stains, and any other visible issues. If you can safely check the attic, take pictures of wet insulation or mold growth. These documents will be valuable if you need to file an insurance claim to cover the repair costs.
3. File an Insurance Claim
If the storm damage is significant, contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claims process. They may send an adjuster to inspect your roof, but having a professional roofer’s inspection report can provide additional proof of damage and strengthen your claim.
4. Schedule Your Roof Repairs
Once your claim is approved (if applicable), it’s time to schedule the necessary repairs. Even if the damage seems minor, it’s important to address it immediately to prevent further issues down the road. Small leaks can turn into major water damage, and loose shingles can cause bigger sections of the roof to weaken over time.
Did a Recent Storm Damage Your Roof? Get a Professional’s Help Today!
Storm damage can be overwhelming, but acting fast can save you from bigger headaches later. If you suspect your roof has suffered from strong winds, hail, or heavy rain, don’t wait until a small problem turns into a costly repair.
At Oscar & Rosa, we specialize in storm damage inspections, insurance claim assistance, and expert roof repairs in San Bernardino County. Let us restore your roof and keep your home safe—contact us today for a professional inspection!
