After severe weather, it’s common to worry about your roof—especially if your area experienced heavy rain, strong winds, hail, or falling debris. Even if there’s no obvious leak right away, storm damage can create hidden problems that show up days or weeks later as ceiling stains, attic moisture, or active roof leaks.
If your home was hit by a storm, this guide walks you through what to safely check, what warning signs to look for, and when it’s time to call in a professional.
Why Post-Storm Roof Inspections Matter
Storm damage isn’t always immediate. Wind can loosen flashing, hail can crack materials, and heavy rain can expose weak spots. Small issues left unchecked often turn into emergency roof leaks during the next storm.
A quick inspection after severe weather helps you:
- Catch damage early
- Prevent water intrusion
- Support insurance claims
- Avoid costly interior repairs
For more storm-related leak guidance, the blog (https://leakyroof.us/blog/) has step-by-step resources.
Safety First: What Not to Do After a Storm
Before checking anything, keep safety in mind.
- Don’t climb onto a wet or damaged roof
- Stay clear of downed power lines
- Avoid walking on unstable surfaces
- Use binoculars or view from the ground when possible
If you suspect serious damage or an active leak, it’s safer to request professional help right away.
Exterior Signs of Storm-Related Roof Damage
From the ground, look for:
- Missing, lifted, or cracked shingles
- Bent or detached flashing near chimneys, vents, or skylights
- Dented metal components from hail
- Debris resting on the roof surface
- Gutters pulling away or clogged with granules
Even small exterior damage can allow water to enter during heavy rain.
Interior Signs to Check After Severe Weather
Storm damage often shows up inside before it’s visible on the roof.
- Ceiling stains or discoloration
- Dripping water or damp drywall
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Wet attic insulation after rain
- Musty odors in upper rooms
If you’re unsure whether interior moisture is coming from the roof or another source, the diagnostic articles in the blog (https://leakyroof.us/blog/) can help narrow it down.
Common Storm Damage That Leads to Roof Leaks
Wind Damage
Strong winds can lift shingles, loosen fasteners, and pull flashing away from roof penetrations—creating entry points for water.
Hail Damage
Hail can bruise shingles, crack membranes, and damage protective coatings, leading to leaks that appear later.
Heavy Rain
Prolonged rain tests drainage systems and exposes weak seals around vents, chimneys, and skylights.
Falling Debris
Branches or wind-blown debris can puncture roofing materials or damage flashing without being immediately obvious.
How Professionals Inspect Storm Damage
A professional storm damage roof inspection goes beyond visible issues.
It may include:
- Close inspection of shingles, seams, and flashings
- Checking roof penetrations and edges
- Inspecting attic insulation and decking for moisture
- Documenting damage for insurance purposes
You can schedule a storm damage inspection through the services page (https://leakyroof.us/services/) to identify hidden problems early.
When to File an Insurance Claim
If you find storm-related roof damage or leaks:
- Take photos of visible damage and interior signs
- Document dates and weather events
- Avoid making permanent repairs before inspection
Professional documentation can help support your claim and prevent disputes.
What Not to Ignore After a Storm
- Minor shingle damage
- Small ceiling stains
- Loose flashing
- Temporary leaks that “stop”
These often indicate underlying problems that will worsen with the next storm.
When to Get Help
If your home experienced severe weather and you’re seeing signs of roof damage—or you want peace of mind—it’s best to act quickly.
Reach out through the contact page to request emergency help or schedule an inspection (https://leakyroof.us/contact-2/). You can also check the locations page to confirm service availability in your area (https://leakyroof.us/locations/).
For more guidance on roof leaks, storm damage, and prevention tips, visit the blog (https://leakyroof.us/blog/).
Comments are closed here.