Problems with a Roof After a Strong Storm
Strong storms are notorious for wreaking havoc on roofing systems. The roof is one home area most likely to fall into disrepair due to a harsh storm. Hurricanes, hail, or snow storms can cause severe damage to residential roofs. Some forms of storm damage are easily visible, while for others, the signs are not that obvious and hard to spot by untrained eyes.
Roofing experts advise a thorough roof inspection after every storm. It helps identify issues that have popped up due to the storm and enable timely roof repairs to prevent further harm to the roofing system and the home.
Here are the most common problems that a roof can experience after a strong storm:
Missing or damaged shingles
Homeowners can spot missing shingles from the ground, or they may find shingles lying around the property. Hail or flying debris during a storm can cause various types of damage to the shingles, including dents, cracks, discoloration, tears, punctures, and curls. Missing or damaged shingles can prematurely deteriorate the underlying roofing materials and make the home vulnerable to water damage.
Leaks and wet spots
Moisture penetration is another potential issue a roof can suffer after a storm. Debris and fallen tree limbs can puncture the roof or leave holes, allowing the water to seep in. Dripping water, musty odor, and stains or wet spots on the ceiling are signs of a damaged roof. If ignored, leaks can lead to mold or structural home damage.
Granule loss
The exterior coating of granules on the asphalt shingles works as an additional protective layer, shielding the underlying layers from the elements and preserving the shingle integrity. Intense storms, especially hail, can result in heavy granule loss, showing horizontal lines on the shingles. Spotting a large number of granules in the gutter or downspout also indicates roof damage.
Ice dams
A strong winter storm can result in ice dam formation. It happens when the snowmelt freezes on the roof’s eaves, preventing the water from melting snow from draining off the roof. Ice dams are easily visible and can lead to leaks and gutter damage.
Clogged or broken gutters
Gutters are crucial parts of a roofing system and are equally prone to damage from severe storms. Gutters also need inspection after every rainstorm to ensure their proper functioning. Finding clogged, cracked, loose, dislocated, bent, dented, or broken gutters is not uncommon after a severe storm. A damaged gutter prevents water from flowing off the roof, which can cause various issues for the roofing system.
Damaged flashing, soffit, and fascia
Not only shingles, but a severe storm can also damage other roofing components like flashing, soffit, and fascia. Damage to the flashing is hard to spot and can lead to leaks. Storm-damaged soffit and fascia can result in mold and mildew and cause the gutter system to become loose.
Safeguard the roof
Storm damage, whether minor or significant, requires immediate professional assistance. If there has been a severe storm in your area recently and you suspect storm damage to the roof, immediately call a local roofing contractor for an inspection. Trained and experienced roofers can quickly identify storm roof damage and perform the necessary repairs to restore the roof’s integrity.
Nimble Restoration Services offers ten years of experience in restoration construction and roofing repair and replacement for residential and commercial structures in McKinney, Tx. Our client information service ensures our customers understand their needs and the best materials for their circumstances. We offer roof inspections and tune-ups. We believe our integrity and service are unmatched. RCAT licensed and insured. Woman-owned. Emergency services are available. Call us now at (214) 833-7517.