You most likely breathe a sigh of relief after a snowstorm, hurricane, or hail. While there might not be obvious signs of roofing problems, like water flowing from the ceiling or a huge tree branch on the roof, it doesn’t mean proper roof inspection is not necessary. Some damages are difficult to spot with an untrained eye and require a vetted roof inspector to do a professional evaluation. Here are six signs of roof damage after a storm.
Damaged or Missing Shingles
Storms coupled with high winds tear shingles from the roof and push them away, especially if they are already peeling or have cracks. Compromised shingles expose your roof to elements such as water infiltration and leaks, affecting its integrity. A ground inspection can help you tell if you have missing shingles, as you can spot pieces of the roofing material around the property. You can also check your roof for cracked, curled, or lifted shingles as they point to possible storm damage and a bad roof condition.
Drooping or Sagging Roof Areas
Heavy snow accumulation or rainfall can exert extra weight on the roof, making certain areas droop or sag. If you inspect your roof and notice any visible dipping or sagging in the roofline, call your MN roofing company to address the problem promptly, hindering potential collapse and structural damage.
Broken or Clogged Downspouts and Gutters
Asphalt shingle granules in the gutters or downspouts point to possible roof damage. Granule loss often weakens the roof’s ability to stand against the elements, leading to immense roofing system damage. A broken gutter drains water directly to the foot of the building, which can erode the foundation, affecting the integrity and safety of the structure.
Call an expert to fix it immediately if you notice signs of dislocation and bending in your gutters. Clean your downspouts and gutters regularly to eliminate granule buildup and ensure a smooth flow of water.
Visible Attic and Ceiling Issues
The roof and the attic work closely as a whole ecosystem. Damage to the roof easily extends to the attic. Take time to inspect the attic for moisture penetration and possible leaks. Check for dampness or discoloration on lumber, insulation, walls and ceilings. You may need to replace your attic insulation and inundated surfaces to inhibit the growth of harmful mildew and mold.
Ice Dam Formations
Ice dam formation is a common roof system problem, especially during winter snowstorms. Mostly, ice dams develop after snow on the roof is exposed to escaping heat from your attic space. The resulting water refreezes when it gets to colder eaves, roof edges, and gutters. Sometimes, ice dams break their way into the shingles, ruining the gutters and causing vast internal water damage. Avoid heavy ice dam buildup by clearing your roof regularly to avoid snow buildup.
Crooked Chimney
Strong storms can damage the chimney’s flashing seal, allowing water to follow inside. As a result, the roof chimney may fail to hold upright and straight and seem to lean at an angle. The leaning may not be very noticeable; thus, it may require a keen eye to identify the minor changes in its form and position. It is usually not easy to see most chimney leaks with the naked eye. This means you have to work hand-in-hand with a local chimney inspector to guarantee success.
A roof is an integral element of a home. You must ensure it is always in perfect condition. Perform a roof inspection immediately after a storm to point out minor issues and fix them to avoid costly repairs.
