A lot of homeowners often fail to inspect their homes after a storm, especially if there aren’t any apparent signs of a problem. When left unattended, however, storm damage can pose significant risks to your home, affecting both the value and usability of your property.
Spot the Early Signs of Damage
Roofing issues that remain unnoticed for extended periods can compromise the integrity of your home. Such issues can lead to problems like rot–especially in wood materials–water stains, basement flooding and even foundation damage. This is one reason why it’s extremely important you take quick and adequate precautionary measures in the event of any storm activity.
Once the storm is over and it’s generally safe for you to go outside, make sure to perform a visual inspection of your roof from the ground. Here are some of the warning signs to look for:
- Tree limbs and other large debris on the roof
- Missing or cracked shingles
- Torn or split seams
- Holes in the roof
- Displaced metal components
- Sagging gutters
- Damage soffit and fascia
After doing your own inspection, be sure to call in an expert right away so they can assess your roof’s condition more thoroughly. Professional roofers have the tools, skills and expertise necessary to perform an in-depth inspection of your roof, climbing to the top of your home safely and spotting signs of wear and tear that untrained eyes may fail to notice.
Professional Roof Repairs
Any of the common signs of storm damage mentioned above indicate potential risk and water damage to your home. It’s a must to take immediate measures to fix the issues and prevent further troubles. Upon completing their inspection, your roofing contractor will prepare a detailed report about the issues, along with their professional recommendations.
If you’re lucky enough to catch the problems while they are still small, then simple repairs may be enough to resolve the issues. Your homeowner’s insurance will cover the majority of the repair costs, so be sure to discuss things with your contractor as well. Many roofers, like Goodrich Roofing, are also trained to assist in the filing of insurance claims. Extensive damage, however, may require a more comprehensive solution, such as roof replacement.