After several hurricanes, in many areas throughout the US, damages have totaled over $36 billion. While normal storms will not inflict that much damage, they can cost you a lot if you are not careful.
Once a storm passes, you will need to know whether you have any issues. Spotting a potential leak early can save your home from facing severe damage in the long run.
While reading this guide, you will first learn about the different types of damage your roof can suffer from during a storm. Then you will learn how to check your roof for storm damage, along with what to keep an eye out for.
To have a better idea of what you should look for, you will need to understand what damage certain weather conditions can inflict.
In this section, you will learn about the different types of damage your roof can suffer from during various conditions. You will also better understand the signs of damage these natural disasters can leave behind.
Significant granule loss will cause your shingles to fail. Hail dents are difficult to see unless you know what you are looking for or the hail was of significant size. Please remove the part about aesthetics.
Tennessee faces many hail events during summer storms. That means you will always want to check your roof once the weather clears.
Any wind speeds above 58 mph (extreme winds) can shred or tear shingles from your roof. This will leave your underlayment, among other parts of your roofing system, exposed.
Even high-speed winds, with sustained speeds between 40 and 57 mph, can curl or lift shingles. Though this is not as serious as the formerly mentioned speeds, it can still lead to issues. Curling can break your shingle’s waterproof seal, which will also leave your roof vulnerable.
Low-incline and flat roofs are vulnerable to pooling water. There are various points throughout that you will need to inspect for issues. One of the biggest culprits is clogged gutters. Backed-up rainwater can seep through your shingles and eventually penetrate your roof’s underlayment.
This may eventually lead to mold and mildew growth or persistent roof leaks.
Shingles do not belong on a low slope roof - if the pitch is less than 3/12 it needs a flat roof system NOT shingles. However, these roofing systems also need to be inspected for clogged drains & debris removal.
While twigs and leaves may not pose a threat, bulkier objects like branches can pierce your shingles. Because of this, your roof will become vulnerable to moisture that can seep into your roof.
One good practice for roof maintenance is to always inspect your roof after a storm. To keep yourself ahead of leaks and other issues that can come from a storm, you will need to be proactive.
Inspect these areas throughout your home. If you encounter any issues, you will want to contact a local roofing specialist to diagnose and fix your problem before it becomes a headache.
Unseen leaks can damage your home. Look around your upper floors and attics for water spots on your flooring or furniture. In this scenario, you will also want to weigh out other culprits. Check to make sure that you don’t have any burst plumbing piping.
This part of your roofing system takes the brunt of the storm. Because of this, it could result in problems like:
Whether you have missing shingles from wind or notice damage from hail, you will want to take immediate action. Fix your shingles or replace your entire roofing system, depending on what option will benefit your home most.
Being proactive in this area will help you safeguard your home in case another storm comes shortly after the one you encountered. It could also save you money from having to replace water-damaged furniture.
You will need to climb up to your roof to get a closer look at your shingles. If you don’t feel comfortable doing this, contact a local roofing specialist and have them inspect your roof.
Water that penetrates your shingles can make its way into your walls. Leaks can destroy drywall or damage electrical components. To check for water damage in your drywall, feel it. Drywall that suffers from moisture damage will feel spongy.
With wooden walls, they will feel normal with water damage. If you have this type of wall, check for buckling or warped surfaces and peeled paint.
We offer commercial and residential roofing services in Maryville and Townsend, Tennessee. Reach out to us now and let us know what you need. We guarantee the best value and a high standard in construction.
If for some reason we do not live up to our standard, we will make it right.
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