Storm season can take a serious toll on your roof. High winds, heavy rain, and hail all have the potential to cause damage that, if left unchecked, can lead to costly repairs down the line. After severe weather, it’s essential to inspect your roof for signs of damage to ensure small issues don’t become major problems. Here’s what to look for after a storm to keep your roof in top condition.
The Quick Rundown:
- Inspect roofs immediately after storm seasons for damages such as cracked tiles and loose metal sheeting to avoid costly repairs.
- Check for compromised flashing and seals around roof penetrations to prevent undetected leaks.
- Clear debris from gutters and ensure proper drainage to maintain structural integrity and prevent water-related damage.
- For the best advice, talk to a professional after a storm.
Roof Surface Damage
Storms can cause a variety of damage to your roof’s surface, whether you have roof tiles or metal sheeting. After a storm, inspecting these materials for any signs of wear or damage is crucial.
Roof Tiles
Strong winds and flying debris can crack or displace roof tiles, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks. Even minor cracks can allow water to seep through, causing damage to the structure below. Look for tiles that are missing, shifted, or visibly damaged. Addressing these problems quickly can prevent more serious issues, such as water intrusion.
Loose Metal Sheeting
For homes with metal roofs, high winds can loosen or lift metal sheets, leaving gaps that allow water to penetrate. If fasteners become loose or detached, this could compromise the roof’s stability, leading to rusting or leaks. Inspect the metal sheets closely for any areas that appear lifted or loose, and ensure that all fasteners are securely in place.
Tip: Quick Inspection
Use binoculars from the ground to safely inspect your roof after a storm. Look for any missing or shifted tiles and check metal sheets for gaps or lifted areas. If something doesn’t look right, call in a professional roof inspector to assess the damage.
Damage to Flashing and Seals
Flashing and seals play a vital role in keeping your roof waterproof, particularly around roof penetrations like chimneys, skylights, and vents. Storms can damage these areas, causing leaks that may go unnoticed until they cause significant water damage.
High winds and heavy rain can damage or dislodge the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing is designed to prevent water from seeping into your roof, and any damage here can quickly lead to leaks. Look for bent, detached, or corroded flashing that may have been loosened by the storm.
Flashing Around Roof Penetrations
High winds and heavy rain can damage or dislodge the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Flashing is designed to prevent water from seeping into your roof, and any damage here can quickly lead to leaks. Look for bent, detached, or corroded flashing that may have been loosened by the storm.
Seals and Joints
Seals around roof penetrations can crack or deteriorate over time, and storms accelerate this process. Cracked or broken seals allow water to seep through vulnerable areas of your roof, leading to hidden leaks. Regular inspections of seals are crucial after a storm to ensure they remain intact.
Tip: Pay Attention to Water Stains
After a storm, check the ceilings inside your home for any water stains, particularly around areas where chimneys or skylights are located. Water stains can be a sign of flashing or seal damage, even if the problem isn’t visible from the outside.
Gutter and Drainage System Issues
Your roof’s drainage system is just as important as the roof itself when it comes to weathering storms. Gutters and downpipes play a crucial role in directing water away from your home, but heavy rain and debris can lead to clogs or damage.
Clogged or Damaged Gutters
Debris like leaves and branches can clog your gutters during a storm, preventing water from draining properly. When gutters are blocked, water can back up onto the roof, leading to leaks and damage. Inspect your gutters for any clogs or damage after a storm and clear out debris to ensure proper drainage.
Improper Drainage
If your downspouts are detached or damaged, water may pool around your roof or foundation. This can cause long-term structural issues, particularly if water collects on the roof and causes it to sag. Check that all downspouts are securely attached and draining water away from the house.
Tip: Preventative Maintenance
Installing gutter guards can help prevent debris buildup during storms, reducing the risk of clogs. Regular gutter cleaning, especially before and after storm season, ensures your drainage system functions properly.
Structural Weaknesses
Storms can sometimes reveal or exacerbate structural weaknesses in your roof. Prolonged exposure to rain and wind can lead to sagging, bowing, or internal water damage that weakens the overall integrity of the roof.
Sagging or Bowing Roof Sections
After a storm, check for any sections of the roof that appear to be sagging or bowing. These could be signs that the roof’s support structures are weakened, potentially due to water damage or prolonged exposure to heavy winds. Addressing structural issues early can prevent a costly roof replacement.
Water Seepage
Hidden water damage can weaken your roof over time. Water that seeps into the roof’s support system may go unnoticed, but over time, this can lead to serious problems like mould or wood rot. Look for signs of water damage such as discoloration, damp spots, or warping in ceilings or walls.
Tip: Watch for Internal Signs
After a storm, inspect your home’s attic or upper floors for any signs of water damage. Mouldy smells, damp patches, or warped ceiling panels could indicate water has entered through a structural weakness.
Debris Accumulation
Storms often bring heavy winds that can leave branches, leaves, and other debris scattered across your roof. While it might seem harmless, debris accumulation can trap moisture, leading to mould growth or water damage
Storm Debris on the Roof
Branches, leaves, and other debris can build up on your roof during a storm, especially in valleys or around vents. This debris can trap moisture against the roof surface, accelerating wear and increasing the risk of leaks. After a storm, carefully clear debris from the roof to prevent long-term damage.
Blocked Gutters and Vents
Debris can also block gutters and roof vents, which are essential for proper drainage and ventilation. Blocked vents can lead to a buildup of heat and moisture in your roof space, causing insulation or structural problems over time. Ensure that all vents are clear and functioning properly after a storm.
Tip: Safe Debris Removal
When clearing debris from the roof, use a soft broom or leaf blower to gently remove branches and leaves without damaging the roofing materials. If debris is difficult to reach, hire a professional to safely clean the roof.
Inspect Now, Save Later: Protect Your Roof from Storm Damage
Storm season can be hard on your roof, but regular roof inspections after severe weather can help catch minor issues before they turn into costly repairs. By inspecting the roof surface, checking flashing and seals, clearing gutters, and looking for structural weaknesses, you can ensure that your roof stays in top condition throughout the storm season. If you’re unsure about the extent of damage or notice any concerning signs, it’s best to contact a professional roof inspector to assess the situation and make any necessary repairs.
If your roof has taken a battering during our recent stormy weather, get in touch with Roof Inspection Reports to have an experienced, qualified roof inspector give you the full story. Our comprehensive roof condition reports leave nothing out, meaning you can save time and money by having any issues fixed as soon as possible. To talk with a trusted roof inspector, contact Roof Inspection Reports by calling 0418 677 524 or get in touch with us online by clicking here.