How to Identify Storm Damage on Your Roof

When the clouds clear after a severe weather event, your first instinct might be to climb a ladder and inspect your roof for yourself. While we understand the urge to assess the situation immediately, we want to remind you that your safety is the most important priority.

Learning to identify storm damage is the first step in protecting your home, but knowing when to call in a professional is just as important. Here is a guide on what you can do from the ground to protect your property and your health.

How to Identify Storm Damage from the Ground

You do not need to be on the roof to spot the signs of a serious problem. In fact, most of the telltale indicators of roof damage are visible from the safety of your yard. If you suspect your home has been hit by hail or high winds, grab a pair of binoculars and scan your exterior for these red flags:

• Loose or Missing Shingles: Look for bare spots where shingles may have been torn away.

• Dented Shingles: Hail often leaves circular, darkened spots on shingles where the protective granules have been knocked loose.

• Damaged Gutters: Dents, dings, or loose sections on your gutters are a strong indicator that heavy hail or debris struck your roof.

• Dents in Siding: If the siding of your home shows signs of impact, it is highly likely your roof suffered similar damage.

• Cracked Windows: Check your window casings and screens for damage, as these areas are often struck by wind-blown debris during a storm.

• Patio and Exterior Damage: Look closely at your patio furniture or grill. If you see broken or dented metal, or if the fabric is shredded, it is a clear sign that high-velocity hail or debris passed through your property.

• Vehicle Damage: Inspect vehicles parked outside. Dents on the hood or roof of your car are often the first visible confirmation that the storm was severe enough to cause damage to your home as well.

  
  

If you spot any of these issues, it is time to take action. However, please stay off the ladder.

The Reality of Roof Safety

We see the temptation to climb up and take a closer look, but it is rarely worth the risk. According to the National Safety Council, thousands of people are treated in emergency rooms every year for falls from roofs and ladders. These injuries are often severe and life-altering.

You do not need to risk your safety to get the answers you need. We are experts at navigating steep pitches and spotting structural issues that are invisible to the untrained eye.

Why You Need a Professional Inspection

Once you have done your ground-level check, the next step is to contact a qualified, experienced contractor. At Midwest Storm Company, we specialize in comprehensive property evaluations and provide you a 100% free, 15-point Roof Health Report and photos of affected areas.

When you work with us, you are not just getting a cursory glance at your roof. We provide a Free Inspection to determine the full extent of the impact. If repairs or a full replacement are necessary, we handle the entire process. We are an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, which means we meet the highest standards of installation quality and product knowledge in the industry.

We also understand that dealing with insurance companies can be stressful. We specialize in the Insurance Inspection process. We document everything, provide the photo evidence needed to support your claim, and help explain the process so you aren't left in the dark.

Whether you need a simple repair or a complete replacement, we are here to help. You don't have to guess if your roof is safe.

Are you concerned about the condition of your roof? Contact Midwest Storm Company today for a Free Estimate and let us help you navigate the restoration process with confidence.

If you want to schedule your Free Inspection and get your Roof Health Report, call us at (888) 247-5572 or contact us on MidwestStormCompany.com