Severe storms roll through the Triangle every year, and roof damage isn’t always obvious right after the wind and rain clear out. Here’s a practical checklist for what to do in the hours and days after a storm, before small damage turns into a bigger, more expensive problem.
Check for Safety Hazards First
Before you think about your roof, look for downed power lines, damaged trees near your home, or standing water near electrical equipment. If anything looks unsafe, stay clear and contact the appropriate utility or emergency services before doing anything else.
Do a Visual Check From the Ground
You don’t need to climb onto your roof to spot warning signs. Walk around your home and look for missing or displaced shingles, dented gutters or downspouts, debris on the roof, or shingle granules collecting near downspouts and in gutters.
Check the Attic and Ceilings Inside
Water doesn’t always show up outside first. Check your attic for damp insulation, water stains, or daylight coming through anywhere it shouldn’t. Inside the house, look at ceilings for discoloration, bubbling paint, or soft spots, which can indicate a leak even if you can’t see obvious roof damage from the ground.
Document Everything
Take photos and videos of any visible damage, both to your roof and to the surrounding property, as soon as it’s safe to do so. This documentation is helpful whether you’re filing an insurance claim or just keeping a record of the storm’s impact on your home.
Avoid Temporary Fixes That Cause More Damage
It’s tempting to throw a tarp up yourself or climb onto a wet roof to check things out, but doing so without the right equipment can create new problems or safety risks. If you need emergency covering, it’s worth having a professional handle it correctly the first time.
Get a Professional Inspection Before Small Damage Grows
Storm damage isn’t always visible to an untrained eye, and small issues like lifted shingles or compromised flashing can lead to water intrusion weeks or months later if left unaddressed. A free inspection after a storm gives you a clear, documented picture of any damage and what, if anything, needs to be done, before it turns into a bigger repair.
Just been through a storm? Don’t wait to find out what it did to your roof. Gonzalez Roofing, part of the Gonzalez Painters & Contractors family, offers free post-storm inspections across the Triangle. Request your free inspection before small damage becomes a big problem.
