After a storm passes, many homeowners breathe a sigh of relief, thinking that everything’s intact. The roof, however, can often hide damage that’s not visible from the ground. Sometimes, it’s easy to overlook the subtle signs of trouble, but even if your roof looks perfectly fine after a storm, it might have hidden damage that could cause problems later on. Ignoring these can lead to expensive repairs or even structural damage to your home.
Loose or Missing Shingles
One of the most common storm-related roof issues is missing or loose shingles. High winds can easily lift older shingles or even tear them off completely. This damage may not be obvious at first, especially if the shingles are still partially attached. However, these areas are now more vulnerable to water infiltration, leading to leaks inside your home.
You might not be able to spot missing or loose shingles from the ground, but a roofing inspection can reveal issues that need immediate attention. If your roof is older or has already been through several severe storms, your shingles might be more susceptible to storm damage.
Granule Loss on Your Roof
Speaking of granules, it’s important to watch for signs of granule loss on the surface of your roof. Granules help protect your shingles from UV rays and wear and tear, so if a large number have been stripped away, your roof’s integrity could be compromised.
The damage might not be immediately visible, especially if it’s only a few areas where the granules have worn off. Over time, though, this damage adds up and weakens your roof, increasing the risk of leaks. If you notice smooth spots on your shingles or a buildup of granules in your gutters, it’s time for a professional roof inspection.
Hidden Leaks and Water Damage
Just because you don’t see water dripping from your ceiling doesn’t mean your roof is fine. Storms can cause leaks that might not show up right away. Leaks can often go unnoticed until they cause more significant damage inside your home, such as mold growth, rotting wood, or damaged insulation.
Dark spots or water stains on your ceiling or walls
A musty odor in your attic or other upper levels
Damp insulation or wet spots in your attic
Damaged Flashing Around Vents, Chimneys, and Skylights
Flashings are metal strips installed around areas where your roof meets other structures, like chimneys, vents, and skylights. These areas are particularly vulnerable during storms, as high winds and rain can loosen or damage the flashing, leaving gaps for water to infiltrate.
If you notice water damage around any of these areas inside your home, the flashing may be the problem. Cracked, corroded, or missing flashing could allow water to seep underneath your roof, causing leaks and potential mold growth.
Damaged Roof Valleys
The valleys of your roof are where two roofing sections meet, and they play a vital role in directing rainwater off your roof. These areas are more susceptible to damage from storms, as the constant flow of water can loosen shingles and flashing. Even minor damage to the valleys can lead to significant water infiltration.
If your roof valleys show signs of wear or are missing shingles, you could be facing water damage inside your home. It’s important to have a professional inspect these areas to ensure they’re functioning properly.
Warped or Sagging Roof Deck
While this is less common, severe storm damage can cause your roof deck to warp or sag. This can occur when moisture gets trapped beneath the shingles and affects the structural integrity of the decking beneath. If you notice any unusual dips or sags in your roof, it’s a clear sign that there’s damage underneath the surface.
A sagging roof deck can lead to serious issues if not addressed quickly, including leaks, mold, and even structural failure. If you see any signs of a sagging roof, have it inspected as soon as possible.
How to Spot Roof Damage Early
After a storm, it’s always best to do a quick visual inspection of your roof. Here’s how you can look for potential issues:
Check for missing or cracked shingles
Inspect the gutters for granules or debris
Look for any visible signs of water damage inside your home
Check the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
Look for sagging areas or dips in your roof
If you’re not comfortable inspecting your roof yourself or if you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a professional roofer. They can perform a thorough inspection and identify any hidden problems that might not be visible.
Why Prompt Inspections Matter
Storm damage can be deceptive, and the longer you wait to address issues, the worse the damage can become. A small leak can quickly turn into a major problem, leading to higher repair costs and more extensive damage. By getting your roof inspected soon after a storm, you can catch potential issues before they escalate.
We have the knowledge and experience to spot storm damage that homeowners might miss. Anderson Roofing can help you protect your home and avoid more significant roofing problems in the future.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
If your roof looks fine after a storm, don’t assume that there’s no damage. Storms can cause hidden issues that may take weeks or even months to appear. By addressing minor damage early, you can save yourself time and money in the long run.
If you’re unsure whether your roof has experienced storm damage, schedule a roofing inspection today. A little proactive maintenance can go a long way in protecting your home from the elements and save you money. Contact Anderson Roofing today to learn more.
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