A Guide to Roof Storm Damage: What You Need to Know

Storms are a powerful force of nature, and when they strike, they can damage your roof and other parts of your commercial building. Whether it’s high winds, heavy rain, hail, or snow, storm damage can compromise the integrity of your roof, leading to costly repairs or even the need for a full replacement.

In this blog, we help you understand the causes, signs, and steps to take following roof storm damage to help you protect your property and minimize the storm’s impact.

Types of Roof Storm Damage

Several different types of storm damage can affect your roof. Depending on the nature of the storm, these damages can range from minor cosmetic issues to severe structural problems.

The most common causes of roof damage during a storm include:

Wind Damage

High winds are among the most common causes of roof damage during storms, particularly hurricanes, tornadoes, and strong thunderstorms.

Winds can:

Tear off shingles: Strong gusts of wind can lift and dislodge shingles, causing them to fall off. Missing shingles can expose the roof deck to water and debris, leading to leaks and further damage.
Lift roof edges: Wind can get under the edges of a roof, lifting sections of roofing material or even pulling parts of the roof entirely off.
Carry debris: In severe storms, wind can carry debris such as tree branches, debris, or even trash, causing physical damage to shingles, flashing, and other roofing components.

Hail Damage

Hail can damage roofs, especially in areas prone to severe thunderstorms. The size, density, and velocity of hailstones determine the extent of damage.

Hail can:

Dimple shingles: Hailstones’ impact can cause dents or dimples in asphalt shingles. While small dents may not cause immediate leaks, they can weaken the material over time, leading to a greater risk of roof failure.
Crack shingles: Larger or more frequent hailstones can cause shingles to crack, exposing the underlayment to the elements and increasing the risk of leaks.
Damage gutters and cause flashing: Hail can also damage other parts of the roof system, such as gutters, flashing, or skylights, leaving them more susceptible to water intrusion.

Water Damage (Rain and Flooding)

Heavy rains that accompany storms can result in water damage to your roof. While modern roofs are designed to shed water efficiently, intense or prolonged rainfall can overwhelm your roof’s drainage system and lead to:

Leaks: Water can seep through cracks, gaps, or damaged areas in your roof, leading to leaks inside your building.
Clogged gutters: Storms often bring debris, such as leaves, branches, and dirt, which can clog gutters and downspouts. When gutters become clogged, water can back onto the roof, potentially causing leaks and water damage to the interior of your building.
Ice dams: In colder climates, storms that bring heavy snow or freezing rain can lead to ice dams forming at the roof’s edges. These ice dams trap water on the roof, which can eventually seep under shingles and into the building, causing leaks and structural damage.

Tree Damage

Falling trees or large branches can cause severe damage to a roof during storms. Strong winds, saturated soil, or even the sheer weight of the tree or branch can result in:

Puncturing the roof: A tree limb can puncture through the roofing material, creating a hole that exposes the roof deck and the interior of the building to the elements.
Breaking roof components: A tree falling on your roof can also break gutters, flashing, or even the structure of the roof, leading to extensive repairs.

Property owners have enough on their plates; the last thing they should worry about is their roof. Learn more about the importance of roof maintenance.

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Signs of Roof Storm Damage

After a storm, it’s essential to inspect your roof for damage. In some cases, the damage may not be immediately visible from the ground. However, knowing what signs to look for can help you identify potential issues early before they turn into costly repairs. Common signs of roof storm damage include:

Missing or Damaged Shingles

Missing, curled, or cracked shingles are often the first visible signs of roof damage after a storm. Check for any shingles that are out of place, broken, or missing. Even small areas of missing shingles can lead to significant leaks if left unaddressed.

Granule Loss

Look for water stains on the ceiling or walls inside your building, indicating a roof leak. Even a small leak can cause significant damage over time, so it’s important to address any signs of moisture as soon as possible.

Water Stains or Leaks

Inside your building, look for water stains on the ceiling or walls, which can indicate a roof leak. Even a small leak can cause significant damage over time, so it’s important to address any signs of moisture as soon as possible.

Damaged Flashing

Flashing is used around roof penetrations, such as chimneys, vents, and skylights, to prevent water from seeping into the roof. This could indicate water intrusion if you notice bent, cracked, or loose flashing after a storm.

Debris on the Roof

Check for debris on your roof, such as branches, leaves, or other items. These materials can damage shingles, block gutters, and create areas where water can accumulate.

Sagging Roof Deck

A sagging or drooping roof deck can indicate serious water damage or structural issues. If the roof appears to be sinking or buckling, it could indicate a compromised structure and should be inspected immediately by a professional.

What to Do After Roof Storm Damage

If your roof has been damaged in a storm, taking prompt action is crucial to minimize further issues and prevent expensive repairs. Follow these steps after a storm:

Inspect Your Roof

If it’s safe, inspect your roof from the ground for visible damage. Look for missing shingles, dented or cracked shingles, or debris on the roof. Do not attempt to climb onto the roof, as storm-damaged roofs can be unstable. If you suspect significant damage, hire a professional roofing contractor to thoroughly inspect it.

Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of the damage for insurance purposes. Documenting the damage will help support your insurance claim and ensure you are properly compensated for repairs. Be sure to capture close-up shots of damaged shingles, water stains, and other issues.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the storm damage. They will guide you through the claims process and may send an adjuster to assess the damage. Ensure you provide them with all the necessary documentation, including photos and any repair estimates you receive.

Make Temporary Repairs

If there’s an immediate risk of water intrusion, such as a hole or significant leak, make temporary repairs to protect your building. Cover the area with a tarp or plastic sheeting to prevent further water damage. Avoid making permanent repairs until your insurance adjuster has assessed the damage.

Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor

Once your insurance claim is filed, hire a licensed roofing contractor to assess the damage and provide an estimate for repairs. Choose a contractor with experience in storm damage repairs, and check references to ensure they are reputable and reliable.

Does Your Roof Have Storm Damage? Partner With Us

With over 100 years of roofing experience, Rainville-Carlson is the trusted choice for roofing maintenance across Minneapolis. Our thorough inspection process uncovers even the smallest damage and leaks. While these minor issues may seem insignificant, neglecting them can lead to costly repairs or even the need for a full roof replacement. Contact us today to schedule an inspection.