By Lizzie Weakley
As you begin the process of assessing damage to your home after a hurricane, it is important to pay close attention to your roof. In some cases, damage to shingles or other parts of the roof may not be immediately apparent, and a thorough inspection is necessary to ensure that your home is safe and protected from further damage. This blog post will provide an overview of what to look for when inspecting your roof after a hurricane.
Check for Any Missing or Damaged Shingles
After a hurricane, it is essential to thoroughly inspect the roof for any damage, especially shingles. Exposed areas caused by missing or damaged shingles can be an invitation for wind-driven rain, resulting in further damage to the rooftop and even your home. To keep your home safe and adequately protective, turn your focus to checking the shingles on the rooftop. Closely inspect that no shingles have been torn away and are missing as well as noting any chips or tears you may find. If necessary, replace any damaged parts right away to ensure optimal protection against future disasters.
Look for Any Signs of Leaks
After a hurricane, inspecting your roof for any signs of damage is an important task. A quick way to determine if there is a potential leak is to look within your home—water stains on the ceiling or walls can be a tell-tale sign that something may be wrong with the roof’s integrity. It’s not always easy to detect a current leak, so don’t forget to check underneath your eaves and in any crawl spaces for any lingering moisture or standing water. Any exterior signs of major damage should also be noted and roof repairs should be conducted as soon as possible.
Inspect the Gutters and Downspouts
After a hurricane, it is essential to inspect your roof and the gutters/downspouts. Clogged gutters/downspouts can lead to devastating damage if not cleared of debris following a storm. Make sure you check each of these areas for sticks, leaves and other organic materials that may have been stirred up in the wind. Also be sure to look for any blockages or leaks, as standing water in your gutters can attract insects, cause stains or even lead to foundation issues. If you believe that cleaning or repair is necessary after inspecting the structures, don’t hesitate to contact your local roofing contractor.
Take a Look at the Chimney
After a hurricane, one of the most important areas to inspect on your roof is your chimney. It is especially vulnerable to damage since it is often exposed on all four sides while the roof surrounding it is less so. Make sure to take a close look at all of the parts that make up your chimney and check for breaks, cracks, missing patches of masonry and other signs of damage. If you do find any problems with your chimney, be sure to contact a professional immediately in order to prevent further destruction before it can become an even bigger issue.
It is important to take the time to inspect your roof after a hurricane to ensure that your home and family remain safe. By following the tips outlined in this blog post, you'll rest assured knowing that you've done all you can to ensure your roof can handle any future severe weather. Of course, it's always a good idea to hire a professional if you suspect any major damage has been done as they can provide a more detailed analysis of the situation. In the end, prevention is key – so make sure to stay on top of maintaining your roof before and after a storm hits.
Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and walks in the park with her husky, Snowball.
