Approximately 40 percent of building-related issues are related to water intrusions.
How does most water get in? Through the roof, especially after a big storm.
Do you know how to spot roof storm damage? Are you unsure of when you need to call in a professional for backup?
If you said yes to either question, keep reading so you can expand your roof repair knowledge and make the right decisions for your home.
Signs of Roof Storm Damage
It’s not always easy to tell when you’re dealing with roof damage after a big storm. If you’re not sure what to look for, it can also be easy to gloss over serious issues.
After all, how often are you getting out the ladder and climbing up to look at your roof? How are you supposed to know what’s normal and what’s not?
Here are some warning signs of roof storm damage that you ought to watch for:
Missing Shingles
When wind speeds exceed about 60-70 miles per hour, you can lose shingles. This is especially true if they’re already loose, cracked, or peeling.
After a big storm with a lot of wind, it’s a good idea to take a peek at your roof and see if any shingles are missing. You will likely see some around your property, too, if they’ve been blown off the roof.
Granule Loss
After a storm, it’s normal to lose some granules from your roof’s shingles. They rub off when the shingles flap in the wind.
If you notice excessive granule loss, that’s an indicator of more serious roof damage. Check the rain gutters and the bottoms of your downspouts for granules to determine how much got rubbed off during the storm.
Loose Nails
If nails are loose, exposed, or missing altogether, they can’t properly support the shingles. As a result, you’re more likely to deal with shingle damage and shingle loss during a storm.
Keep in mind, too, that loose and missing nails can also contribute to leaks inside your house. They leave a hole where water can sneak through and get into your attic.
Water Leaks
Speaking of water, that’s another sign of storm damage. If you notice leaks in your roof or water pooling up in your attic, that likely means there’s a serious issue with your roof that you need to address. If you don’t take care of it quickly, you may end up with mold growth or structural damage.
Broken Gutters or Downspouts
If your gutters or downspouts are clogged after a storm, it’s important to clean them out as quickly as possible. If you act fast, you likely won’t have to worry about major issues.
If the gutters or downspouts break during the storm, though, you’ll need to get them fixed right away. Leaving them like this can cause flooding and other water-related problems, which can lead to a need for more expensive roof repairs.
When to Call for Professional Roof Repairs
If you notice any of the issues mentioned above, there’s a good chance you need to get in touch with a professional.
Why call an expert? Why can’t you just handle the problems yourself?
A professional roofing contractor will identify the source of the problem and eliminate all the guesswork from the roof repair process. They’ll work efficiently and help you avoid mistakes that could lead to the need for more expensive repairs in the future.
How to Choose a Roofing Professional
There are lots of reasons why you might need to bring in a roofing professional. However, you can’t just call in any old roofing contractor when you’re dealing with serious storm damage.
Keep these tips in mind to make sure you’re hiring the right person for the job:
Check Qualifications
A good starting point when searching for a roofing contractor is to check their qualifications. At the very least, they should have liability insurance and a current business license.
In addition to asking about qualifications, it’s also a good idea to ask about the team’s experience. How long have they been working in the industry? How much experience do they have handling issues like the ones you’re facing?
Ask About Estimates
Any roofing professional you consider working with should be willing to provide you with a written estimate.
If they want to jump in and get right to work without letting you know, roughly, how much the repairs will cost, that’s a big red flag. The same is true if they demand a certain amount of money before they’ve even started working.
Once you receive an estimate, look over it carefully. This will help you understand the costs and why you’re being charged a certain amount.
Consider Services
Make sure the roofing company you’re thinking about hiring offers the specific services you need. What kinds of repairs do they handle? Can they help with full replacements if needed?
Look at Their Locations
Look for a roofing professional who handles repairs in your area.
If you work with a local team, they may be able to get to you faster. They’ll also have a better understanding of the types of issues that affect homes like yours. As a result, they will be able to offer recommendations that keep your roof strong and secure now and in the future.
Read Reviews
Finally, don’t forget to read reviews.
How many other people have turned to this company for assistance with roof storm damage? Are they satisfied with the results they’ve seen? Would they hire them again in the future?
Take note of what people are saying (both positive and negative) to figure out if a particular company is a good fit for you.
Need Roof Repairs in Central Illinois?
Are you dealing with roof storm damage? Is it time for you to call for professional roof repairs or a roof replacement?
No matter how severe your roof’s damage is, we can help at Freeman Exteriors.
Contact us today to learn more about our roofing services or to get an estimate. With locations in Champaign, Danville, Paris, Crawfordsville, Covington, and West Lafayette, we’re here to serve all of Central Illinois.
