The mixture of hope and fear during stormy seasons is sometimes too much to bear. And while the storm eventually passes, it can leave a trail of destruction in its wake. But the most difficult part is coming out the other side, dealing with the aftermath, and trying to pick up the pieces.

For starters, choose Proformance Roofing – a go-to roofer offering professional yet prompt and affordable services – if you need a replacement or roof repair done right in Jacksonville, FL. The contractor has also prepared a checklist to help you determine the extent of the damage, including the signs to look out for, and what you can do afterward.

Shall we begin? Great.

Causes of Roof Damage

Various elements can damage your roof, and you need awareness before making the necessary repairs. Knowing what to expect can also help you prepare adequately before a storm hits. Usually, during a storm, the following causes can shred your roof:

• High winds: Wind gusts often blow away shingles and tiles, leaving behind a torn-off appearance on the roof.
• Heavy hail: Hailstones are a common occurrence during thunderstorms, and their impact can create a pattern of dents, punctures, and cracks.
• Falling debris: Severe weather can bring down large branches and other objects that hit your roof, causing holes and nicks.
• Flooding: Stormwater can penetrate your home’s insulation and cause water to seep through your roof. The result? Fungus and mold colonization, leading to premature deterioration of your roofing materials.
• Lightning: A lightning strike can leave a gaping hole, visible damage, and even put you in danger.

After identifying the cause of your roof damage, you can proceed to assess your home and surroundings. Here’re the places you need to inspect:

1. The Roof

Phew, the storm is over! If it’s safe to do so, step outside and look at your roof. Identify missing shingles, holes, punctures, and other damaged areas. Now would also be a great time to document the damage – take pictures, videos, and other evidence to support your claim to the insurance company.

Note that a casual look at your roof may not unearth the full extent of the damage. Therefore, you may need a professional roofer to inspect it for underlying issues.

2. Gutters, Downspouts, and Accessories

Inspect your gutters and downspouts for debris that may obstruct water flow. The sooner you clear the blockage, the better. Also, check for sagging on your gutters, which could indicate poor installation or other issues.

Also, check your roof vents, overhangs, and other accessories to determine whether they survived the storm without major damage. Case in point, damaged vents are precursors to moisture accumulation, ice dams, and mold infestation. Note your findings to help determine the damage inflicted on your roof.

3. Siding and Windows

Walk around your home and look for cracks, holes, dents, or other signs of damage on the siding and windows. For instance, loose weather-stripping or missing caulk around the windows could require replacement. Similarly, broken window glass, warped siding, and excessive chipping on the walls are telltale signs of a storm.

Also, inspect your walls for water stains, cracked plaster, and other signs of moisture intrusion. This could signify the storm has infiltrated your home and damaged the walls, insulation, and other areas.

4. Landscaping

Does your landscape look like a warzone? Inspect your yard, walkways, and paths for damage – toppled trees, displaced stones, strewn branches, and more. If you find something amiss, document it for future reference.

5. Ceiling and Attic

After inspecting the exterior of your home, move indoors and check out the interior damage. Start by looking at your ceiling – have any leaks sprung up? If so, consider fixing them immediately before more water seeps in and causes further destruction.

Next, head to the attic and inspect for water spots. If it’s too dark, grab a flashlight and look for signs of damage. Also, check the insulation for moisture and wet spots resulting from the storm.

Inform Your Insurer

Let your home insurance company know about the damage ASAP. Inform them before the storm rages. Otherwise, you could be left high and dry with a long wait for repairs. The evidence you document can help you make your case. All the same, insurers usually send assessors to evaluate the damage.

Contact a Professional

Don’t try to repair your roof – hire a reputable contractor like Proformance Roofing so they can identify the issue and resolve it professionally. They can also estimate the repair costs, advise you on the ideal course of action, and provide you with a valuable report for your insurer.

A storm can damage your home severely, leaving you with hefty expenses and repairs. Fortunately, a knowledgeable roofer can help you get through the ordeal with ease. They can also help avert future problems by taking preventative measures. In so doing, your home can weather the coming storms.  Thus, the stormy season won’t result in a nail-biting experience.