Storm Damage Roof Repair: What to Do Immediately After the Storm

Severe weather can strike unexpectedly, leaving your home vulnerable to significant roof damage from high winds, hail, or heavy rain. Promptly addressing storm damage and roof repair is crucial to prevent further issues such as water intrusion, mold growth, and structural problems. Taking immediate action helps minimize repair costs and protects your family’s safety by maintaining the roof’s structural integrity.

Knowing the right steps to take after a storm helps you manage the situation effectively and prevent further damage. Educating yourself on the subject allows for a fast and effective response so that you don’t have to deal with the negative side effects from the storm.

How to Safely Assess Roof Damage After a Storm

Safety is the top priority in any emergency involving your roof. After severe weather, your property may contain hidden dangers such as broken glass, large debris, and potential structural damage. 

Before you even consider roof repairs:

• Stand on the ground and use binoculars to check for damage such as missing shingles, damaged shingles, a damaged roof, dents, punctures, or debris.
• Inspect for loose or damaged shingles, granule loss from asphalt shingles, and dented flashing or vents that often indicate hail damage.
• Stay away from the roof deck or attic if you suspect structural integrity issues.
• Indoors, look for water leaks, standing water, or immediate leaks that can develop into mold growth over time.
• If you notice sagging ceilings, bowing roof trusses, or major water intrusion, evacuate the area and contact emergency services.

Never attempt a climb onto the roof unless you are comfortable climbing and certain conditions are safe.

What to Do Immediately After Storm Damage

To address damage to your roof effectively, take these key steps promptly. In cases of severe leaks, structural compromise, or major storm impact, emergency roof repair may be necessary—acting quickly can help prevent further damage and costly repairs.

1. Document All Visible Signs of Damage

Capture photos and videos of roof damage from multiple angles, clearly documenting missing shingles, hail damage, large branches or other large debris, and areas exposed to standing water. Note problems like clogged gutters, pooling water, or areas of asphalt shingles with granule loss.

Additionally, list any roof issues, especially where water may enter and lead to mold growth or structural damage. This can help your roof insurance claim get processed more efficiently.

2. Perform Temporary Fixes to Prevent Further Damage

Cover affected areas with a tarp and secure it to the roof deck as a temporary fix to delay further damage until professional emergency roof repairs are possible. Use buckets or containers indoors under leaks, and relocate valuables out of risk paths. Keep gutters clear to help prevent water intrusion. For small holes, cracks, or issues with a shingle (such as a missing or damaged shingle), roofing cement can be applied as a quick barrier until full repair.

3. Remove Debris, Only If Safe

Carefully clear large debris or broken glass from walkways so people can pass safely around your home. However, leave the removal of anything on the roof, such as nearby trees, large limbs, or heavy branches, to professional roofing contractors to avoid serious risks. Attempting to remove roof debris yourself can lead to injury or further damage to your wind-damaged roof’s structure, so it’s best to rely on experts for these tasks.

Various Types of Roof Storm Damage

Knowing what to look for will help you communicate effectively with your insurance company, insurance adjuster, or professional roofing contractor. Different types of roofs may be affected differently by storm damage, depending on their materials and construction.

• Wind Damage. High wind speeds can strip, curl, or tear off shingles, exposing the roof deck. The level of damage to roofs often depends on the wind speed—higher wind speeds (measured in mph) can cause more severe damage, especially to older or less durable roofing materials. Look for scattered or missing shingles, especially at roof edges, and check for exposed nail heads or loosened roofing materials.
• Hail Damage. Hail can cause pockmarks, bruises, and granule loss on asphalt shingles. Dents or cracks in vents, gutters, and downspouts are also typical.
• Impact Damage. Large branches, nearby trees, and debris can physically damage or even puncture your roof’s structure.
• Water Damage. Water leaks, standing water, and ice dams can all lead to significant damage, including warped decking and the risk of mold growth.
• Fire Damage. Lightning strikes or downed power lines during a storm can occasionally start fires; check for scorched areas or lingering burning odors.

When to Call for Emergency Roof Repairs

Certain scenarios require emergency repairs to prevent catastrophe:

• Multiple roof leaks or major water intrusion
• Severe structural damage or compromised roof trusses
• Exposed roof deck or open sections
• Significant damage after a hail or wind event

A roof repair emergency may threaten the safety and habitability of your home. A professional roofing contractor can help stabilize your roof and perform necessary roof repairs to keep your property protected.

What to Look For in a Contractor for Storm Damage Roof Repair

Selecting the right expert is key for lasting, effective repairs:

What to Look For:

• Licensing and Insurance. Check that the roofing contractor holds full insurance and a valid license for your area.
• Experience and Reputation. Ask for references and verify experience with storm damage roof repair, especially if your roof uses specialized roofing materials or requires fire resistance upgrades.
• Local Presence. Roofing contractors who have been in the community for a while are more likely to be responsible with their warranty claims and can fit you in sooner.
• Transparent Estimates. Insist on detailed, itemized quotes covering all possible roof repairs, such as replacing roof trusses, fixing the roof deck, or addressing general roof damage.

Red Flags:

• Contractors who ask for full payment up front.
• “Storm chasers” with temporary offices and few local references.
• Vague, non-itemized proposals.

Other Considerations:

• Ask about financing options for larger repair or roof replacement projects.
• Discuss warranty coverage for roofing materials and workmanship.

How to Prevent Future Roof Issues

Although not all storm damage is avoidable, you can reduce your home’s risk and prolong the life of your roof with these strategies:

• Regular Inspections. Schedule regular inspections with a professional roofing contractor—at least once annually and after any major storm.
• Trim Nearby Trees. Remove overhanging limbs to minimize the risk of impact from large branches.
• Upgrade Materials. Consider more durable roofing materials with high fire resistance and better wind or hail ratings.
• Address Small Roof Issues Promptly. Fix loose or damaged shingles, seal minor leaks, and replace failing flashing before problems escalate.

Worried About Roof Damage? Let Armadas Exterior LLC Handle the Hard Work

Storms can severely damage your roof, leaving your home vulnerable. Acting quickly by safely inspecting the damage, documenting it for your insurance provider, and applying temporary repairs can help protect your home. Always reach out to a qualified local roofing contractor to assess and promptly fix any issues like leaks or missing shingles.

Don’t let storm damage compromise your home’s safety and comfort. Armadas Exterior LLC specializes in professional, prompt, and reliable roof repair services after severe weather events. With a strong reputation in the community and years of experience handling everything from minor leaks to major structural repairs, our expert team is dedicated to restoring your roof and peace of mind.

Contact us today for a free roof inspection or emergency repair assessment—your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities!