What to Do When Your Roof Has Been Damaged by a Storm

When a storm hits Texas, it often leaves behind a trail of damage, with roofs taking the brunt of the impact. If your roof has been damaged by a storm, it’s crucial to take immediate and effective action to protect your home and ensure your family’s safety. At Casa Roofing, we understand the stress and urgency that comes with storm damage. This guide will help you navigate the essential steps to take after your roof has been damaged by a storm.

We understand that a storm-damaged roof can be quite overwhelming, but there are ways to ensure the problem is addressed quickly and efficiently. This article will explain the most common types of roof damage and what you need to do after a storm.

Types of Roof Damage Caused By Storms

• Wind Damage: While manufacturers design roofing materials to withstand wind, strong storm gusts can still cause a lot of damage. High winds create uplift pressure on asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and other roofing materials, and if the material shears away, the underlayment becomes exposed. Unprotected underlayment cannot effectively protect the home from driving rain and interior water damage. Gale-force winds can also cause a sagging roof over time by putting pressure on the roof’s structure.
• Damage From Falling Debris: The wind doesn’t only wreak havoc on the roof itself. A strong gust can snap a tree branch, causing it to fall onto your roof. Falling debris can break brittle roofing materials, such as clay or slate roof tiles, and it can also damage the roof decking or the structure itself.
• Hail Damage: While standard hailstones probably won’t poke holes right through your roof, hail can cause significant damage. Asphalt shingles may become dented by falling hail, causing them to shed their protective granules. Brittle materials like clay may crack beneath the impact, requiring a quick roof repair to prevent further damage.
• Rain Damage: A rainstorm will likely leave puddles of standing water if your roof struggles to drain water efficiently. Standing rainwater can lead to leaks, wood rot, and other issues, especially on flat roofs with uneven surfaces. Additionally, clogged or damaged gutters can cause rain damage by stopping water from draining, potentially pushing it under the bottom layer of shingles.

The Storm Damage Checklist:

1. Ensure Safety First: The first and most important step is to ensure the safety of everyone in your home. Roof damage can lead to dangerous situations, such as falling debris, exposed electrical wires, and structural instability.

• Stay Indoors: Avoid going outside during the storm and immediately after, as there may be hazards like downed power lines and loose debris.
• Check for Immediate Dangers: Look out for signs of structural damage inside your home, such as cracks in walls or ceilings and water leaks.
• Evacuate if Necessary: If the damage is severe, and your home is no longer safe, evacuate to a secure location and contact emergency services if needed.

2. Assess the Damage: Once it is safe to do so, conduct a preliminary assessment of the damage to your roof. This step is crucial for understanding the extent of the damage and preparing for the next steps.

• Visual Inspection: Walk around your property and look for visible signs of damage, such as missing shingles, broken tiles, and dents on metal roofing. Use binoculars for a closer look if necessary.
• Interior Check: Inspect your attic and ceilings for leaks, water stains, and mold growth. These can indicate underlying roof damage that needs immediate attention.
• Document Everything: Take photos and videos of all damage from multiple angles. This documentation will be valuable when filing insurance claims.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company: Filing an insurance claim is a critical step in recovering from roof damage. Early communication with your insurance company can expedite the process and help you get the necessary repairs done sooner.

• Report the Damage: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. Provide them with the documentation you collected during your assessment.
• Understand Your Policy: Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to understand what is covered and what is not. This knowledge will help you manage expectations and plan for any out-of-pocket expenses.
• Meet with an Adjuster: Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Be present during the inspection to point out all areas of concern and provide any additional information they may need.

4. Choose a Reliable Roofing Contractor: Selecting a reputable roofing contractor is essential to ensure high-quality repairs.

• Research Contractors: Look for contractors with strong reputations, positive customer reviews, and appropriate licenses and insurance. Casa Roofing, for instance, has years of experience and a track record of satisfied clients.
• Get Multiple Estimates: Obtain estimates from several contractors to compare prices and services. Ensure that each estimate includes a detailed breakdown of costs and the scope of work.
• Check for Warranties: A reliable contractor will offer warranties on their work. At Casa Roofing, we stand behind our services with comprehensive warranties to give you peace of mind.

5. Perform Temporary Roof Repairs: While waiting for professional help, you may need to perform temporary repairs to prevent further damage to your home. These measures can help mitigate immediate risks and protect your property from additional harm.

• Cover Leaks: Use tarps or heavy-duty plastic sheeting to cover any leaks or exposed areas of your roof. Secure the coverings with nails or duct tape to ensure they stay in place.
• Remove Debris: Safely remove any fallen branches or debris from your roof. Be cautious and use proper safety equipment to avoid injury.
• Secure Loose Shingles: If it is safe to do so, secure any loose shingles with roofing cement or nails to prevent them from blowing away in the wind.

6. Plan for Permanent Repairs: Once the immediate dangers are addressed, focus on planning for permanent roof repairs. A well-executed repair or replacement will restore your roof’s integrity and protect your home for years to come.

• Schedule Repairs: Work with your chosen contractor to schedule the necessary repairs. An expert roofer will ensure that the work is completed promptly and to the highest standards.
• Quality Materials: Opt for high-quality materials that can withstand future storms. Discuss material options with your contractor to find the best solution for your roof.
• Regular Maintenance: After repairs are completed, establish a routine maintenance schedule to keep your roof in excellent condition. Regular inspections and minor repairs can prevent major issues in the future.

7. Stay Prepared for Future Storms: Living in Texas means being prepared for future storms. Taking proactive steps can help minimize damage and ensure your home is ready for whatever nature throws its way.

• Reinforce Your Roof: Consider adding extra reinforcement to your roof, such as hurricane straps or impact-resistant shingles. These measures can provide additional protection during severe weather.
• Trim Trees: Regularly trim trees and remove dead branches near your home. This reduces the risk of branches falling on your roof during a storm.
• Emergency Kit: Keep an emergency kit with essential supplies, such as tarps, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit, readily available in case of future storms.

Contact Casa Roofing for Your Storm-Damaged Roof Repair 

You should always call a trusted roofing company to provide a professional damage assessment after a storm. An experienced team can spot even the smallest signs of storm damage to ensure they don’t become big problems down the road.

If you live in Schertz, TX, or the surrounding area, you can trust your storm-damaged roof repair needs to Casa Roofing.

Our team has the experience you need to handle the most complex roof repairs. Our roofing contractors can repair your roof, gutters, fascia, siding, and more. Call us at 210-290-8012 to schedule a free inspection and estimate.