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Roof Storm Damage: What to Do Immediately After Severe Weather

Written by Hailshield Roofing | Nov 18, 2024 4:07:22 PM

In southeast Texas, severe storms can arrive without much warning, bringing heavy rain, hail, and high winds. These storms can take a serious toll on your roof, leaving it vulnerable to leaks and structural damage. As a homeowner, knowing how to respond quickly and effectively after severe weather can make all the difference in protecting your home. At Hailshield Roofing, we’ve helped countless homeowners and businesses in Conroe, The Woodlands, and surrounding areas recover from storm damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate roof storm damage and take immediate action.

Ensure Your Safety First

Before anything else, prioritize your safety. After the storm passes, check for hazards around your property, such as downed power lines, broken tree branches, or sharp debris. Avoid walking on or near your roof—it may be unstable or slippery due to water or damage. Instead, inspect it from the ground or with the help of binoculars to get a closer look.

Signs of roof damage to watch for include:

  • Missing, cracked, or curled shingles
  • Dents or holes caused by hail
  • Fallen tree limbs or large debris on the roof
  • Sagging or warped areas

If you notice any immediate danger, like large holes or leaks, call a professional roofing company like Hailshield Roofing for an emergency inspection.

Document the Damage Thoroughly

If it’s safe to do so, document the damage as soon as possible. Use a camera or smartphone to take clear photos and videos of:

  • Your roof from multiple angles
  • Any visible damage to shingles, flashing, gutters, or downspouts
  • Signs of interior damage, such as water stains on ceilings or walls

This documentation will be invaluable when filing an insurance claim. Be thorough, as even minor damage can lead to significant problems if left unaddressed.

Prevent Further Damage

If your roof has been compromised, take temporary measures to protect your home from further harm:

  • Place buckets or containers under leaks to catch water.
  • Move valuables and furniture away from affected areas.
  • Use a waterproof tarp to cover damaged areas of the roof (only if it’s safe to do so).

Temporary fixes can help prevent additional water damage until professional repairs can be made. If you’re unable to safely address the issue, Hailshield Roofing offers emergency tarping services to protect your home while you arrange permanent solutions.

Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

After severe weather, it’s essential to have your roof inspected by a trusted roofing professional. Hailshield Roofing’s experienced team provides comprehensive inspections to assess visible and hidden damage caused by hail, wind, and debris.

During an inspection, we’ll look for issues like:

  • Damage to shingles, flashing, and vents
  • Hail dents that can weaken roofing materials over time
  • Structural damage from fallen branches or debris

Scheduling an inspection promptly ensures that no issues are overlooked and helps you move forward with repairs quickly.

File an Insurance Claim with Confidence

If the damage is covered by your homeowners’ insurance, start the claims process as soon as possible. Contact your insurance provider and provide the photos, videos, and any inspection reports you’ve collected.

Hailshield Roofing can assist you throughout the claims process by:

  • Documenting the damage with detailed inspection reports
  • Meeting with your insurance adjuster to ensure all damage is accounted for
  • Helping you understand what’s covered and recommending repair options

With our guidance, you can feel confident that your claim will be handled efficiently and fairly.

Avoid Storm Chasers

After severe weather, out-of-town contractors, known as “storm chasers,” often flood affected areas, offering quick and cheap fixes. While their offers may seem tempting, they often lack the local expertise and long-term reliability you need.

Stick with a trusted local company like Hailshield Roofing, serving homes and businesses within 100 miles of Conroe. We’re committed to providing quality work and standing by our repairs long after the storm has passed.

Schedule Permanent Repairs Promptly

Once your claim is approved, it’s time to schedule permanent roof repairs. Delaying repairs can lead to further issues, like mold, structural weakening, and interior water damage.

At Hailshield Roofing, we use durable materials and proven techniques to ensure your roof is restored to withstand future storms. Our team works efficiently to minimize disruption to your home or business and keep you protected.

Plan for Future Storms

After your roof has been repaired, it’s a good idea to take steps to prepare for future storms. Regular roof inspections, gutter cleaning, and minor repairs can prevent small issues from becoming major problems during the next severe weather event.

Hailshield Roofing also offers preventive maintenance services to ensure your roof is storm-ready year-round.

Protect Your Roof with Hailshield Roofing

Recovering from storm damage can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Hailshield Roofing is here to help homeowners and businesses in Conroe, The Woodlands, Spring, and beyond navigate roof damage with confidence.

If your roof has recently been damaged by severe weather, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or emergency repair. Let Hailshield Roofing help restore your roof and protect your home for the future.

Ready to get started? Call us now to schedule your post-storm inspection!