Key Takeaways
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- Storms can cause both visible and hidden roof damage.
- Quick action prevents leaks, mold, and costly repairs.
- Insurance often covers storm damage if documented correctly.
- Professional inspections are safer and more reliable than DIY checks.
- Team Armour Roofing offers emergency tarping, repair, and complete roof replacement.
Storms can roll through quickly but leave behind severe damage. Strong winds, hail, heavy rain, and falling debris can all harm your roof. When that happens, your home is suddenly at risk for leaks, mold, and even structural problems.
The roof is your first line of defense against the elements. Spotting storm damage early and repairing it fast keeps your family safe and prevents small issues from turning into major expenses. Many homeowners are unsure what to look for or how fast they should act. That’s where Team Armour Roofing steps in.
This guide will help you understand storm damage, recognize warning signs, and learn the right steps to take. You will also see why working with a trusted roofing company makes the process smoother, safer, and more affordable in the long run.
Understanding Storm Damage
Different types of storms can harm your roof in different ways.
- Hailstorms: Hailstones strike shingles and leave dents, cracks, or missing granules. This weakens the roof and shortens its lifespan.
- High winds: Winds can lift shingles, tear them off completely, or bend flashing around chimneys and vents.
- Heavy rain: Rain finds its way into tiny gaps, causing leaks in ceilings or walls.
- Falling debris: Branches or debris from nearby trees can puncture shingles and underlayment, creating direct openings for water.
Even if the damage looks small from the ground, the roof may still be compromised. Small cracks and bruises from hail or lifted shingles from wind often worsen with each new storm.
Signs of Roof Storm Damage
Outside signs
- Missing or torn shingles.
- Shingles lying in the yard after a storm.
- Dents or dark spots on shingles from hail.
- Bent or damaged flashing around chimneys, skylights, or vents.
- Damaged gutters or downspouts clogged with shingle granules.
- Fallen branches or debris sitting on the roof.
Inside signs
- Water stains on ceilings or walls.
- Dripping water in the attic after heavy rain.
- Musty smells or mold growth.
- Warped drywall or peeling paint.
Some damage is easy to see, but other problems may be hidden. This is why calling a roofing professional for an inspection is so important.
Immediate Steps After a Storm
When a storm passes, safety comes first.
- Stay off the roof: It can be slippery or unstable. Inspect from the ground using binoculars.
- Check your yard: Look for shingles, nails, or debris.
- Take photos: Document visible damage for insurance claims.
- Prevent leaks: If water is entering the home, use buckets to collect it and tarps inside to protect furniture.
- Call a professional roofer: A licensed roofer can provide emergency tarping and assess the damage fully.
Quick action can stop further damage and give you the evidence you need for insurance.
Storm Damage Roof Repair Options
Storm repairs can range from small fixes to complete replacements.
- Minor repairs: Replacing a few shingles, sealing cracked flashing, or fixing a small gutter issue.
- Moderate repairs: Repairing sections of the roof where shingles and underlayment are damaged.
- Major repairs or replacement: Needed when hail damage is widespread, large branches puncture the roof, or water has seeped into the structure.
Why speed matters: A small leak today can become mold growth, insulation damage, and rotten wood tomorrow. The longer repairs are delayed, the more costly they become.
Team Armour Roofing provides emergency tarping to protect your home immediately and then follows with complete inspections and permanent repairs.
Insurance and Storm Damage
One of the biggest questions after a storm is whether repairs are covered by insurance. In most cases, homeowner’s insurance policies cover damage from hail, wind, and falling debris.
Steps for handling insurance claims:
- Document everything with photos and notes right after the storm.
- Contact your insurance company to start the claim process.
- Schedule an inspection with a trusted roofer who can confirm the damage.
- Share the roofer’s report with your insurance adjuster.
Should you call the roofer or the insurance company first? In many cases, calling the roofer first helps because they can provide detailed evidence and even meet with the adjuster. Team Armour Roofing often assists homeowners in navigating the claims process to make it less stressful.
Professional vs DIY Repairs
It may be tempting to grab a ladder and fix a few shingles yourself, but storm damage repair is not a safe or simple DIY job.
Risks of DIY repairs:
- Falling or injuring yourself on a slick roof.
- Missing hidden damage that leads to bigger problems later.
- Using the wrong materials or techniques can void warranties.
Benefits of hiring a professional roofer:
- Safety training and equipment.
- Ability to identify all damage, both visible and hidden.
- Correct materials, installation methods, and warranty protection.
- Faster completion and long-term peace of mind.
With Team Armour Roofing, homeowners know repairs are done right the first time.
Preventing Future Storm Damage
While you can’t control the weather, you can prepare your roof to handle storms better.
- Regular maintenance: Clean gutters, check flashing, and schedule annual inspections.
- Trim nearby trees: Remove overhanging branches that could fall during storms.
- Upgrade shingles: Consider impact-resistant shingles for added protection.
- Emergency preparedness: Keep a tarp and repair kit handy in case you need quick coverage before the roofer arrives.
A proactive approach reduces damage and makes repairs easier when storms do hit.
Conclusion
Storms can cause severe damage to your roof in just a few minutes. The key to protecting your home is recognizing damage early and repairing it fast. From missing shingles to hidden leaks, even small problems can grow into costly repairs if ignored.
Finishing storm damage repairs quickly keeps your home safe, your family comfortable, and your insurance claim strong.
Team Armour Roofing provides fast inspections, emergency tarping, and professional repairs that last. With years of experience and a reputation for quality, we are the partner homeowners trust when storms strike.
Don’t wait until a leak becomes a major problem. Contact Armour Roofing today for a free inspection and expert storm damage roof repair.
FAQs
How do I know if my roof has storm damage?
Look for missing shingles, dents from hail, damaged gutters, or water stains inside the home. A professional inspection confirms hidden damage.
Does insurance usually cover roof storm damage?
Yes, most policies typically cover damage from hail, wind, and falling debris. Always check your policy details and file a claim promptly.
What does hail damage on a roof look like?
Hail damage often appears as dark spots, dents, or missing granules on shingles.
Can wind damage shingles without visible signs?
Yes, strong winds can lift shingles slightly, weakening them without tearing them off. This hidden damage can lead to leaks in the future.
How quickly should storm damage be repaired?
As soon as possible. Waiting allows leaks, mold, and structural damage to spread.
Should I call my roofer or insurance company first?
Call your roofer first for a detailed inspection and documentation. This evidence helps with your insurance claim.
How long does a storm-damaged roof repair take?
Minor repairs may take a few hours, while full replacements can take several days depending on roof size and weather.
What happens if I ignore roof storm damage?
Ignored damage can cause leaks, mold growth, insulation problems, and expensive structural repairs.