While you can ignore any minor problem around your home for as long as you like, roof damage is something you cannot forget. Although many small and large things can happen to your roof, weather conditions can cause the most severe damage.
What to do if a storm has damaged my roof?
Your roof might not be harmed by snow and rain, but severe storms can cause roof damage. So it is advised to plan for possible damage if you live in an area with frequent showers. But, first, let’s talk about how to repair your roof after storm damage.
Don’t panic
As a homeowner, the most important thing to do in an emergency roof situation is to remain calm and not panic. If you have grave damage, you will need to get help quickly. It will save you time and prevent future problems.
Assess the damage
Strong winds, falling tree branches, snow accumulation, or other weather-related events can damage your roof. To determine the extent of damage, inspect your roof. Early damage assessment can help you assess the severity of damage and save you money. In addition, many contractors can provide roof repair if you have an emergency.
Contact your insurance provider & contractor
Once you have discovered the cause of your roof damage, contact your contractor or insurance company to discuss it. Most insurance companies have a maximum amount they will pay for claims. Therefore, it is crucial to accurately document roof damage and file your claim as soon as possible. However, calling them during a storm may not be a good idea. When there is rain, wind, and lightning, no contractor or insurance provider will send help.
Protect your roof
Emergencies can be unpredictable. Before you design the plan of attack, it is vital to know the extent of the damage. What type of damage is this? Different types of damage require other methods. For example, a tree might fall on your roof, or the lightning may have caused severe damage. You will need to assess the situation and take appropriate action. However, it is crucial to install a protective covering to protect your interior immediately.
Roof emergency first aid
Before professional help arrives, there are some things you can do. First, once the storm has passed and you can safely go outside, get on top of your roof and move any damaged shingles around to stop leaks.
If the damage isn’t too severe, you could cover cracks with roofing cement or buy other shingles to replace the missing ones. As a temporary solution, you can cover missing shingles with metal sheeting.
Replacing a whole roof requires time and financial resources, which may not be available immediately. Therefore, these repairs are temporary until you have the funds to replace your roof.
Get insurance
It is essential to have current insurance. Proper insurance is an excellent investment if your home is damaged. In an emergency, it is a good idea to have the contact information of a roofing contractor handy.
What types of roof damage can storms cause?
Your roof is the most important investment in your home. Unfortunately, turbulent weather conditions can cause roof damage and compromise its structural integrity. Homeowners can learn about the different types of damage to prevent further damage. Here are some of the most common roof storm damage types and what homeowners should know about them.
Tree injury
What damage can a tree cause to a house’s structure?
Storms can cause trees to fall, which can result in damage to your roof and shingles. Fallen trees can cause significant damage, requiring an emergency roof repair or complete roof replacement.
How do I protect my roof against trees?
Trees around your home should be monitored and maintained regularly. To reduce their chances of falling over, you should consider removing any weak or diseased trees. In addition, experts in roofing recommend that you trim all branches less than six feet from your roof. Low-hanging limbs can damage and dislodge the roof shingles.
Does my insurance cover tree damage to my roof?
The Insurance Information Institute states that a standard homeowners policy covers tree damage to your home, regardless of whether it was caused by wind, lightning, or hail. In addition, your insurance will likely cover roof repairs due to storm damage.
Wind damage
What is the maximum wind speed that can cause roof damage?
Your roof will be more susceptible to damage if winds exceed 55 miles per hour. Wind can destroy your roof by ripping off shingles and bringing along debris. Roof damage can be caused by poor installation or damaged shingles.
How does a roof that has been damaged by wind look?
High winds might not impact your roofing system in the same way. However, it can damage your roof’s edges or cause damage in areas with loose shingles. The following are some of the most common causes of wind roof damage:
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- Missing Shingle Granules: Shingle granules offer weather protection. However, winds can cause granule loss. This aspect can reduce the lifespan of your shingles. You should check your gutter for granules, which can build up in the gutter.
- Curled Shingles or Lifted Shingles: Curled or raised shingles at stress points (corners, edges, and near the chimney) imply wind damage to your roof. For an inspection of your roof, contact a roofing expert if you suspect wind damage.
- Damaged Flashing: The flashing on your roof plays a vital role in reducing water damage to your roofing. Because the wind can lift it, the chimney flashing is especially vulnerable. Inspect your flashing after a storm for any signs of damage.
- Water Damage: Wind damage to your roof can lead to water intrusion into your home that could cause severe interior damage. Leakage can be identified by discoloration, flaking paint, and moist spots. Call a roofing contractor if you notice signs of wind damage to stop further damage.
Lightning damage
What happens to my roof if lightning strikes it?
Lightning can cause serious damage to your roof. It can penetrate shingles, tear gutters, cause damage to your attic and even collapse your roof. Lightning can even cause damage to chimney bricks or other roof components. In addition, fires can be started when lightning strikes close to electrical wires.
You must respond quickly if a lightning bolt strikes your roof. First, contact a trusted roofing contractor, such as Roofing Repair Framingham MA, for an immediate repair or a thorough damage inspection.
How can you tell if lightning strikes your roof?
You might hear an explosion and see a flash if you are in your home during a lightning strike. In addition, you might notice apparent damage to your roof from lightning strikes, such as holes, loose bricks, or cracked shingles. On the other hand, you may see smoke, melting plastic, or other signs of a power outage.
What can you do for lightning damage to your roof?
You might consider investing in a roofing lightning protection system that uses a rod to divert the lightning bolt from your home and down into the ground. You can also replace wood shingles with fire-resistant asphalt or fiberglass.