Mother Nature always knows how to ruin a perfectly good afternoon. Just when you’re settling into your favorite lawn chair with a cold drink, summer storms roll in with winds that could move your patio furniture to the next county. While you’re chasing cushions, your roof takes the real hit.
According to the NOAA, severe thunderstorms cause over $1 billion in property damage each year, and roofing bears the brunt of the damage.
But don’t worry. You don’t have to be a pro to spot some early warning signs that your roof has suffered damage. Some issues are visible from the ground, while others, such as loose or damaged shingles, may require a closer look. Here’s a quick guide to post-storm inspection and when you need to call in professional storm damage roofing services.
What Summer Storm Damage Looks Like
Summer storms are notorious for their unpredictability and intensity. Hail, high winds, and heavy rain can all cause significant damage to your roof in minutes. Wind may curl, lift, or strip shingles completely. Hail often leaves circular dents or knocks granules loose, weakening your roof’s UV resistance and lifespan.
Knowing what to look for helps you act fast and avoid costly repairs down the road.
How to Safely Inspect Your Roof
Before you even think about grabbing that ladder, let’s talk safety. Safe, ground-level inspections are a key part of smart summer roof care. Spot problems early, and you’ll avoid bigger headaches down the road.
Use binoculars or a camera with zoom to inspect shingles, flashing, and gutters. If you’ve got it, you can even use a drone! They’re becoming more popular with roofers for a reason. Look for debris, missing materials, or signs of sagging. Never walk on a damaged or wet roof. Leave that to the professionals.
Have you found gutters stuffed with granules? That’s a sign your shingles took a beating. Also, check for detached downspouts or gutter separation that could signal impact damage.
Inside, head up to the attic with a flashlight. Look for water stains, soft spots, or damp insulation. Around vents and chimneys, check for leaks or discoloration–common signs you need repairs.
Spotting Hail & Wind Damage
Hail damage is easy to miss. Watch for dark spots where shingle granules have worn away or dents in metal flashing. Even small areas of damage can accelerate wear and lead to roof failure over time.
Wind damage is usually more obvious: missing shingles, bent flashing, and debris embedded in your roof. Lifted shingle edges allow water in, even if they seem intact.
Document everything. Take photos from multiple angles and keep notes. This will help when working with your insurance company.
When to Call the Pros
There’s only so much you can see from the ground. If you spot structural issues, widespread granule loss, or any signs of water damage, it’s time to call in professional storm damage roofing services.
If you spot structural issues or signs of water intrusion, don’t wait. Structural damage is a safety concern and can get worse fast, and water infiltration creates long-term risks like mold and hidden decay.
Call in the pros to assess the full scope of the damage and determine if you need repairs or a full replacement. Don’t wait. Professional roof inspections mean catching problems early, before they spiral into major repairs.
Roof Trouble? Let Us Work Our Magic
Prevention is just as important as response. Trim overhanging branches, clean your gutters regularly, and schedule an annual inspection. Summer roof care isn’t just about what happens after the storm. It’s also about being ready before it hits.When storm damage does strike, Roof Wizards is here to help. From expert storm damage roof repair to full-service restoration, we’ll get your home back in shape fast. Get in touch today for a free estimate!