What You Need To Know About Storm Damage & Roof Repairs

If your home recently faced a violent storm with hailstones or strong winds, it’s a good idea to call your local roofing contractor to carry out a full inspection. Even if there are are no visible signs of damage, storms can cause hidden damages to your roof. When left unchecked, these damages can gradually develop into major and costly issues. Here are three steps to take to ensure you’re in the best position after a storm:

1. Know What Your Insurance Covers

Go through your insurance policy before any to know what is covered and what isn’t. A typical homeowner’s insurance should cover damages caused by natural disasters such as hurricanes, lighting, and high winds. However, floods and earthquakes may not be covered, so you’ll need a separate policy for such calamities. Be sure to keep records of all the damages and receipts for any repair works done on your roof to ensure optimal compensation.

2. Have A Working Relationship With A Local Roofer

It’s important to build a strong working relationship with a local, reputable roofing contractor you trust. This way, you won’t fall victim to storm chasers who could create even more trouble for your roof. Having a good working relationship with them will help you know your home is in good hands.

3. Complete Regular Maintenance And Repairs

It’s important to have your roof regularly inspected and maintained at least once a year to keep your roof in top-notch shape. A well-maintained roof will withstand harsh weather conditions and won’t damage easily during a storm. Additionally, periodic inspections will help identify minor problems and make the necessary repairs before storms arrive.

Signs Of Storm Damage

Other than heavy tree branches and debris, hailstones are a big enemy of roofing replacement materials. By looking at the size of hailstones which fell during a storm, you can evaluate the extent of damage it could have caused to your roof. Hailstones the size of a softball will often cause massive damages such as displaced shingles or tears on membranes.

Other signs of storm damage to your roof include:

• Ponding water

• Cracked or missing shingles

• Bruising on roofing materials and dents on AC units

• Leaks

• Wet ceiling

• Debris

• Dents on flashing and counter flashings

• Broken glass/power lines

What To Do After Storm Damage

The first thing to do after storm damage is to call your insurance provider. Then contact your roofer to come and inspect the damage and issue an estimate for repairs or a roofing replacement. When your roof has suffered extensive damage from a storm, it is imperative to call your roofer as soon as possible to make the necessary repairs and prevent further damage to your home. Consider working with Exteriors Plus for all your roofing needs in the Akron, Canton and Cleveland areas. Contact us today to learn more about dealing with storm damage.