Post-Storm: Is Your Roof Safe?

Severe weather—hail, high winds, and heavy rain—can wreak havoc on your roof. Even a small amount of damage, if left unchecked, can lead to massive leaks and mold growth months later. Here is how to inspect your property safely after a storm.

1. Interior Inspection (Attic)

Start inside. Go to your attic during the day and look for pinholes of light poking through the decking. Check for wet spots on the insulation or dark streaks on the wooden trusses. If you see water inside, you have a breach.

2. Shingle Check (From Ground)

Walk the perimeter of your house. Look for:

• Missing Shingles: Wind often tears off shingles at the edges or peak.
• Curling: Shingles that are curling up or buckling.
• Debris: Large branches on the roof can puncture the surface.
• Granule Loss: Check your downspouts. If you see a pile of black grit (granules) at the bottom, your shingles have been stripped by hail and are aging rapidly.

3. Flashing and Penetrations

Check the metal flashing around your chimney, vents, and skylights. High winds often peel this metal back, creating an easy entry point for water. A missing chimney cap is also a common issue after storms.

4. Gutter Damage

Hail often leaves "dings" or dents in metal gutters. While cosmetic, this is a strong indicator that the roof itself took a beating. If the gutters are hanging loose or detached, water will not drain correct towards the foundation.