What do you do if a storm rips your roof off? What if your homeowner’s insurance company denies your storm damage roof repair claim?
Severe weather can sometimes wreak havoc on our homes. And Minnesota is no stranger to nature’s fury as it lies along the Tornado Alley (an area where tornadoes are most frequent).
After severe storms, you should promptly assess and address big and small issues before they escalate into more risky and costly problems.
At Viking Contractors, we’re here to offer you the support and expertise you need during these challenging times. Contact us for a free roof and home inspection.
Now, let’s see how a storm can damage your roof and the steps you need to take in the aftermath.
Understanding Types of Storm Damage to Roofs
Storm damage to roofs can come in various forms, from less noticeable to extreme. High winds, heavy rains, hails, fallen tree branches, ice storms, and other aspects of severe weather can cause damage to your roof.
Wind Damage
Strong winds during a major storm can lift shingles, causing them to become loose or completely detached. It can also pull the roof upward and lead to structural damage. The evidence of wind damage to your roof might include the following:
- Missing shingle granules
- Curled or raised shingles
- Damaged flashing
- Exposed roof components, such as underlayment, roof deck, or waterproofing material
Water Damage
Roofs without proper drainage, especially some flat roofs, can have standing water problems after a storm. If the roof has existing vulnerabilities, such as damaged shingles, gaps, or deteriorated flashing, there’s a risk of leaks, water stains, and even structural deterioration over time.
Hail Damage
Large hailstones can cause significant damage to roofs by denting or puncturing roofing materials. This can weaken the roof’s protective layers and expose it to water infiltration. It can also cause further damage during subsequent storms.
Falling Trees and Debris Damage
High winds can cause trees, branches, or other objects to fall onto roofs during storms. The impact can result in punctures, dents, or displacements of roofing materials, leaving the roof vulnerable to water intrusion.
You should remove nearby weak and unhealthy trees to avoid them falling onto your roof. Falling trees often cause severe damage that necessitates immediate roof repair or replacement.
Lightning Damage
The effects of lightning damage can be severe. It can penetrate shingles, tear gutters, damage attics, collapse roofs, dislodge chimney bricks, or even cause a fire.
You should always take swift action after a lightning strike by contacting a reliable roofing contractor with a track record of emergency storm damage repairs.
Signs of Storm Damage to Roof (Roof Storm Damage Checklist)
Identifying storm-related roof damage early is vital to prevent further deterioration. When it’s safe outside, walk around the perimeter of your house and check for visible signs, such as:
- Curling, lifted, cracked, or missing shingles
- Cracked or dented roofing materials
- Debris scattered on the roof
- Damaged or clogged gutters
- Loose or exposed roofing materials
- Mold or mildew growth on the roof
- Deterioration of roof flashing or sealant
- Damaged flashing
The most common signs of roof damage after a storm that you detect from inside your home include:
- Water stains
- Leaks
- Sagging ceilings
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action and have your roof inspected by a reputable roofing company. You can take photographs to document the damage but don’t attempt to go up the roof yourself.
Steps to Repair a Roof Damaged By a Storm
If you find visible signs of storm roof damage, here are the steps you should take:
1. Schedule and Conduct a Roof Inspection With a Roofing Contractor
Your safety comes first. That’s why you should contact a reliable roofing professional to assess the extent of the storm damage. A roofing specialist will do the following for you:
- Assess the roofing system and entire home safely with a professional eye and specialized equipment
- Identify visible and hidden roofing issues
- Document the damages for your insurance claim process
- Provide an estimate on repair costs and timeline
Prompt home inspection allows for timely repairs, preventing further damage that can cause safety issues later or costly repairs.
2. File a Claim With Your Insurance Provider
If you’ve ever filed a claim, you know that the process can be long and intimidating. Not all insurance companies have homeowners’ best interests in mind.
It’s good to check the perils your insurance covers before filing a damaged roof claim. However, the standard homeowners’ insurance covers storm damage roof repair costs but may have exemptions.
Once you file your claim, the company typically sends an insurance adjuster to verify the damage. They can either approve your claim or state no significant signs of storm damage.
3. Hire a Professional Emergency Roof Repair Company
Once the insurance company approves your claim, choosing a professional roofing company will be up to you. The roofing experts understand the repair techniques, such as shingle replacement, sealing, or structural repairs, to use based on the damage and the compensation amount given.
The ideal roofing contractor should have experience working with insurance claims.
How Much Does It Cost to Repair Storm-Damaged Roofs
Storm damage roof repair costs and time frames vary based on the extent of the damage, home size, labor costs, and roofing materials. Minor roof repairs, for instance, fixing a few holes, are inexpensive, while major damage, for instance, when a tree falls on the roof and requires structural work, can cost a significant amount.
The costs can increase if the storm damages other home components, like sidings, electrical systems, and windows.
Conclusion
Storm-damaged roofs require prompt action once the weather is good again. By addressing storm damage through professional repairs, you protect your home, prevent further harm, and ensure your family’s safety.
At Viking Contractors, we specialize in storm damage roof repairs. We help you assess the damage early on, document the evidence to aid your insurance claim and offer quality services to restore your home’s protection.
Contact us today and let us handle your storm damage roof repairs hassle-free. We can repair, replace, or install a new roof anywhere in Minnesota.
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