The aftermath of a storm can be stressful. You may be cleaning up your yard, waiting for the power to come back on, and figuring out whether there’s any serious damage to your home or car. Roof damage is especially common after a storm, but you’ll be better prepared for it if you know how to spot problems and what to do next. This can also help you identify what kind of roofing services you might need.
Do a Visual Check
You shouldn’t get on the roof yourself, but you can do a visual check both inside and outside to start assessing whether there is any damage and how bad it might be. Outside and from the ground, look for damaged or missing shingles, trees or other debris on your roof, or detached gutters.
From the inside, look for signs of leaks. This doesn’t always mean you’ll see or hear water dripping. There can be less obvious indications, such as water spots. If you have an attic, inspect it for damp insulation or other signs of moisture.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Look at your policy and see what it covers as well as how much time you have to file a claim. Note as well what exactly is covered and what your deductible is.
Documentation of damage is important. As long as it’s safe to do so, take photos. Professionals can do further documentation, but it’s a good idea to capture as much as you can on your own as well.
Get a Roof Inspection
Whether or not you see signs of damage, you can always schedule a professional roof inspection after a storm. This can provide peace of mind. Storm damage that goes unnoticed at first can get more serious and more expensive to repair as more moisture gets in, leading to mold, rot, and structural issues. Roofing companies can provide temporary tarping or other solutions while you wait for permanent repair.
Choose Between Repair or Replacement
A roofing professional can help you with this step, but if you’re standing outside the morning after a storm looking at a big tree branch that’s crashed onto your roof, it can be helpful to know what to expect. Storm damage does not always mean replacement, especially if most of the damage is concentrated in one area. Professionals will thoroughly assess the condition of your roof and consider such factors as its age, your budget, and the cost of repair versus replacement.
Wind, hail, and heavy rain can all take a toll on your roof during a storm. Even if you keep your roof and gutters in good condition and nearby trees trimmed, you can’t always prevent storm damage. However, when you know the steps to take, you can address the damage without delay and get the storm services that you need. When you need storm damage services in Mesa, AZ, contact Overson Roofing.