No matter where you live, chances are you’ve dealt with your fair share of wild weather over the years. From sudden summer squalls and hailstorms to high-wind events that bring driving rain, storms can really wreak havoc on your roof and the rest of your home’s exterior.
What to Do After the Storm
So, how do you actually spot roof damage, and what’s the first thing you should do after a big storm rolls through?
We’ve put together this guide to help you understand the different types of storm damage and the steps you should take to protect your home. You can also download the JHebert Roofing storm damage checklist to keep handy for the next time the clouds turn grey. (And if you want to dive deeper into how a roofing project actually works, check out our JHebert Roofing resource page.)
Common Types of Roof Storm Damage
Wind
High winds can do a number on your shingles. Meteorologists classify “hurricane-force” winds at 74 mph or greater, while “gale-force” winds sit between 39–54 mph. Both are strong enough to cause visible damage. High winds can tear shingles right off, leaving the underlayment or the roof deck exposed to the elements.
Even in less intense storms, sudden gusts can cause shingles to lift and curl. Since shingles are installed with a specific overlap to create a water-tight seal, that lifting can break the seal and leave your roof vulnerable to wind-driven rain.
Hail
Hailstorms are usually over in a flash—rarely lasting more than 15 minutes—but they can leave a lasting mark. Hailstones often leave dents or “pockmarks” in shingles, knocking the protective granules loose. This is a big deal because those granules are your roof’s main defense against rain and sun damage. Plus, hail damage just doesn’t look great, ruining your home’s curb appeal.
Standing Water
If your roof doesn’t have proper drainage, you might get “ponding” or standing water after a heavy downpour, especially in uneven spots. Clogged gutters are another common culprit; they cause rainwater to back up under your shingles, where moisture can soak into the roof deck and cause rot.
Debris
Depending on the storm’s intensity, you might find anything from tiny twigs to massive tree limbs on your roof. While the small stuff usually isn’t a problem, larger objects can impact the shingles, creating cracks or dents that let moisture sneak into your home.
Your Post-Storm Inspection Checklist
Safety is the name of the game here. Before you do anything else, contact a pro like JHebert Roofing to schedule an official inspection. We know exactly what to look for and how to do it safely. In the meantime, here is how you can assess the situation from the ground:
The Roof: Walk around the perimeter of your house and look for any obvious signs of trouble—missing, torn, or curled shingles. You can often get a great view of the roof from an upstairs window, too.
Documentation: Take pictures and keep notes! This is gold when it comes to insurance claims later.
Gutters and Vents: Check your gutters, gable vents, and other overhangs for dents or dings.
Windows: Look for cracks, broken glass, or screens that have been shredded by wind or hail.
The Yard: Check for fallen limbs or damage to your fence and patio furniture. If your metal patio table is dented, your roof likely took a hit, too.
Attic and Ceilings: This is the “hidden” check. Grab a flashlight and head to the attic to look for leaks or water spots. Even if the outside looks fine, wind and hail can cause small leaks that turn into massive headaches if left alone.
Hire a Pro You Can Actually Trust
After a big storm, you’ll likely see plenty of “storm chasers” knocking on doors offering “too-good-to-be-true” deals. Our advice? If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
You want to work with an established, local expert. When you choose JHebert Roofing, you’re getting a team that can:
- Assess damage with a professional, trained eye.
- Provide an honest, accurate estimate for repairs.
- Ensure your roof is repaired or replaced to the highest standards.
Tips for Choosing a Contractor:
Ensure they are licensed, insured, and offer a solid warranty.
Make sure they have a proven track record of handling storm damage claims.
Check out online reviews to see how they’ve treated your neighbors in the past.
Don’t Forget the Insurance Company
If you find significant damage, give your homeowners insurance provider a call right away. They’ll help you file a claim and likely send out their own adjuster to evaluate the damage. Having your notes and photos from JHebert Roofing ready will make this process much smoother.
If you suspect your roof took a beating in the last storm, download the JHebert Roofing storm damage checklist today to help you figure out your next steps.
