The roof is one of the most essential parts of your home. Not only does it protect all the things inside, but it also reduces energy costs by providing natural insulation and blocking heat from escaping through the attic. Because of this, roof damage can lead to much larger problems if not addressed promptly. To keep your roof in good condition for as long as possible, you should be on the lookout for any signs of roof damage and make sure to take action if you suspect your roof could be compromised!
What is Considered Roof Damage?
Roof damage is something that occurs from external forces immediately causing damage vs. regular wear and tear that occurs over time as your roof ages. Wear and tear can still lead to necessary repairs or replacement but is less immediate than sustaining damage from a storm or high winds. Regular wear on your roof might look like faded color, dark spots or uneven shingles on your roof, or higher energy bills from deterioration.
Roof damage will look more like missing or cracked shingles, water leaks in your attic, or damaged flashing. Knowing the difference is very important, especially when it comes time to replace your roof. To get proper coverage from warranties or insurance claims, you will want to know what signs were from your roof getting old vs. what damage has occurred on your roof.
For example, homeowners insurance may not cover a total replacement for leaks caused by regular wear and tear, but it should cover repairs and replacement due to significant storm damage.
How do I Know if My Roof Has Storm Damage?
There are a few things you can do and be aware of to know when or if your roof has sustained storm damage. Depending on where you live, the number and severity of storms can vary greatly. Here in the upper midwest, we are very familiar with severe thunderstorms, high winds, and even the occasional hail storm or tornado. And whenever a severe storm comes through, you will want to know what to look for when you walk around your property the next day.
Storms can wreak havoc on your home when it brings with it strong winds and hail. Your roof, siding, windows, and landscaping are all susceptible to damage during these times, and fast-acting repairs can prevent your home from further damage from leaks or other more severe damage.
Roof damage can look like any of the following:
- Missing or damaged flashing
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Curling edges on your shingles
- Damaged vents or pipe boots
- Cracked or crumbling chimney
- Sagging spots or pooling water
- Hail damage (missing shingle granules)
Any of these can be tell-tale signs that your roof is damaged and now at risk of leaks and water damage. So you should act fast to get these things repaired before it gets any worse.
Can Roof Damage be Repaired?
Yes! Roof damage can and should be repaired. More often than not, if your roof is within its lifespan and the damage is not catastrophic, it can easily be repaired with new shingles, flashing, and underlayment within a day. However, severe roof damage that affects the structural integrity of your home, or damage to your already old roof, will most likely require a complete replacement.
The one way to know for sure if your roof damage can be repaired vs. replaced is to have a professional inspection done. We will walk around your property and take a closer look by getting up on the ladder and thoroughly examining the extent of the damage up on your roof. We can then give you a free estimate to repair it based on our findings and our best recommendations for a plan of action.
What to do if You Have Roof Damage
If you have roof damage, you can take a few critical steps to ensure it gets repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
1) Document Everything
As you walk around your property, take photos and jot down any damage you notice. Then, when you file your claim, speak with insurance, and hire a contractor to repair the damage, these will come in handy. The roofing company will do a thorough inspection, but you can ensure you have the right before and after photos to get everything fixed.
2) Schedule an Inspection
Next, you’ll want to get a professional inspection of the damage to assess the situation and get an estimate of what you can expect for repairs. This is also when you can have any severe damage tarped by the pros to prevent further damage from rain or wind before being repaired.
3) File an Insurance Claim
You will want to get the ball rolling on your homeowner’s insurance claim. If you work with First American Roofing, we can help answer any questions or guide you through the complex process, but it’s critical to get started on filing your claim as soon as possible after you sustain roof damage.
4) Compare Estimates
Your insurance might send their own appraiser/inspector which will get an estimate based on their findings. If you have professional contractors inspect your roof, they will also give you an estimate. Getting a few different estimates can ensure you get the best possible coverage and aren’t getting scammed by either party. However, it’s not always necessary, and a reputable contractor will give you the same estimate that insurance might give you, if not a more accurate one.
5) Schedule Your Repairs with First American Roofing
Time to fix it! You want to act fast to get your roof repaired to mitigate any risk of further water leaks and damage. Call us right away at the first sign.
6) Enjoy Your Newly Repaired Roof
Once you’ve had your repairs done, you can sit back and relax, and know you’ve saved yourself a lot of pain and strife that comes with avoiding repairs or thinking it will be fine. Unfortunately, people who put off these critical repairs end up paying so much more in the long run.
The Best Thing to Do When You Spot Roof Damage
Overall, roof damage is not something you want to ignore. And much of it can be spotted without even stepping foot on your roof. However, keeping a diligent eye on your own home can help the professional get repairs done when they happen vs. years down the road after the damage has already spread. It’s up to you to protect your home, and a solid roof can help you do that.
When you spot roof damage, call a professional right away. The team at First American Roofing is here to help repair and replace your damaged roof as soon as possible. We use some of the highest quality shingles on the market, so not only will you get a brand new roof, but you will get one that will last for decades to come. Contact us today for your FREE estimate!