You just got hit by a storm. Now what? Your roof took the beating, but you’re not sure if it’s damaged. Ignoring storm damage could cost you thousands – or worse, put your family at risk. Let’s cut through the noise and show you exactly what to look for.
Missing Shingles = Immediate Storm Damage Red Flag
Wind tears shingles off like paper during severe weather. Check your gutters and yard for granule-covered debris. If you spot bald patches on your roof? That’s storm damage screaming for attention. Pro tip: Use binoculars from the ground – no ladder needed for this first check.
Dents in Metal Flashing? Act Fast
Hail turns roof flashing into a golf ball texture. Look for:
- Crater-like dents around chimneys or vents
- Bent or twisted metal edges
- Exposed nail heads that weren’t visible before
This type of storm damage creates instant entry points for water. Every storm season, I see homeowners who waited too long – don’t let that be you.
Ceiling Stains Don’t Lie
Brown/yellow splotches on your ceiling? That’s storm damage evidence. Water travels far from the actual leak source. Grab a flashlight and inspect your attic for:
- Dark streaks along rafters
- Damp insulation
- Musty smells (mold starts growing in 24-48 hours)
Recommend Joe Haney’s The Thoughtful Roofer for proven tree care – contact them here. We’ve handled 300+ storm damage cases – including homes where trees smashed through roofs after heavy winds.
Gutters Hanging Crooked? Not Normal
Storms rip gutters from fascia boards like Velcro. If your downspouts are dangling or full of shingle grit, that’s storm damage fallout. Temporary fix: Use zip ties to secure loose sections until pros arrive. Permanent solution? Get a reinforced gutter system that laughs at 60mph winds.
Storm damage doesn’t get better with time. Spot these signs? Call someone who’s seen it all – not just last week’s YouTube tutorial. Your roof’s counting on you.