As a Floridian, you’re never far from the eye of the storm. You know that extreme weather events wreak havoc every year, to the tune of around $92.9 billion in damage. It’s no wonder, really, that you breathe a hearty sigh of relief when the storm is over, you cautiously peek your head outside, and your roof looks intact.
The job isn’t done, though. While you have every reason to be cautiously optimistic when you see that the latest storm didn’t tear entire sections off your roof, hidden storm roof damage is insidious. Hard to spot, it can gradually damage your property, leading to nasty surprises and hefty bills over time.
The way to stay ahead of that? Start by conducting your own preliminary storm damage roof inspection — and call your trusted roofing company in Florida if you spot anything even the least bit suspicious. How? We’ll show you!
What to Look for During Your DIY Post-Storm Roof Inspection
Once the storm has settled down and the authorities say it’s safe to go outside again, you can stay ahead of any potential issues by doing your own mini roof inspection. Don’t worry — this inspection, which isn’t a replacement for a professional one done by a storm damage roofing contractor, doesn’t require you to get up on the roof and risk injuring yourself!
Ready? Grab your phone camera and a flashlight, and start going through this roof inspection checklist:
- Walk around your property and look for signs of cracking, waving, curling, missing, or otherwise damaged shingles. Don’t just look at the roof, either — see if you can see any roofing materials on the ground, too.
- Look for loose shingle granules. This protective layer often winds up in gutters and downspouts after a serious storm, and it’s a sign that storm damage roof repair work might be in your immediate future.
- Check whether your flashing is still in place and in one piece. You’ll find it around your chimneys, skylights, and other roof penetrations. While you’re at it, see if your gutters and downspouts are still in good working order, too, and not bent, loose, or missing.
- Head back inside. Go up to the attic and look for signs of water damage and moisture, as well as daylight visible from inside. Take a whiff and see if there’s a musty smell that could indicate mold growth. Check all your walls for water damage.
So far, so good? Head back out and try spraying your roof with a garden hose and check again.
Spotted signs of trouble? Take pictures now. They’re not just great to send to your storm damage roofers (who will have a better idea of what to expect!), but they can also help you with your insurance claim.
I Don’t See Any Storm Damage. Do I Still Need a Professional Roof Inspection?
Good question. While your DIY roof inspection gives you some important insights, it’s not a replacement for getting up on the roof. Plus, storm damage roofers have trained eyes that can spot even the tiniest signs of hidden storm damage.
You know what else? Roofers everywhere strongly recommend that you schedule regular routine roof inspections — at least once a year, but ideally twice. The period after a storm is a great time to make sure you get yours done.
What If I Need Hurricane Roof Repair?
That’s one of the reasons it’s so important to be proactive. Hidden storm damage can gradually get worse, leading to downstream repair needs. You can stay ahead of that by assessing the condition of your roof as soon as possible and then getting a professional roof inspection from a roofing company you trust.
“Storm chasers” will line up to offer hurricane roof repair services in your neighborhood, so make sure you choose your storm damage roofing company — and not the other way around.
Ready for Your Storm Damage Roof Inspection?
You’re pretty sure you’ve narrowly evaded the need for a storm damage roof replacement, but you’re not certain that your roof is completely unscathed? Chappelle Roofing has your back.
Our storm damage roofing pros know that every moment counts, and we’re ready to hit the road and inspect your roof. With a professional roof inspection out of the way, you have the chance to get any necessary repair work done ASAP — or simply to rest back and enjoy the sweet relief that only comes from knowing your Florida roof is A-OK!
Need us now? Just give Chappelle a call, and we’ll get to work!
