Returning Home After A Hurricane: Check The Roof
Posted on: 20 January 2023
Returning home after a hurricane is always a little bittersweet. You're happy to see that your home is still standing, but you know there could be hidden damage still to discover. As you begin assessing your home, it's important to focus on the roof. Roof damage is really common in hurricanes, and even minor roof damage can lead to extensive leaks that cause more serious water damage. So, what roofing problems should you look for post-storm? Take a look.
Spots on the Walls and Ceilings
You can start your assessment inside — on the top floor of your living space. Walk around the perimeter of each room, and look at the tops of the walls. Do you see any areas where the paint is discolored and brownish? These uneven patches are a sign of water damage from a roof leak. You may also see similar spots on the ceiling.
Shingles in the Yard
Next, take a look around your yard. There might be a lot of debris, so it can be hard to tell whether it's from your home or a neighbor's home. But if you know what your roofing material looks like, you can keep an eye out for it in your garden beds and yard. If you see pieces of what you believe to be your roofing, have a roofer out to take a look. You can peer up at the roof yourself and look for missing shingles, but it's usually tough to see the whole roof from the ground.
Moist Insulation
If you're able to access your attic or crawlspace, head up there. Or, at least stick your head up into the opening. Look for any signs of moisture on or in the insulation. Is it moldy? Are there patches that feel wet to the touch? The water is coming from somewhere — and a roofer can figure out where.
Disconnected Hurricane Straps
While you're still in the attic, look towards the edges of your roof. If you can see any of the hurricane straps connecting the rafters to the wall framing, take a look at them. Are they strained, popped out of the wood, or partially disconnected? If so, a roofer needs to fix them before the next storm. These straps hold your roof in place during high winds.
If you follow the steps above, you will have completed a fairly comprehensive assessment of your roof after a hurricane or big storm. For more information on residential roof repair, contact a company near you.
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