Did a Storm Just Blow Through? Here’s What to Do
If you live in Baton Rouge, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. One minute, the sun is shining, and the next, strong winds, heavy rain, and hail are battering your home. While these storms may pass quickly, their impact on your roof can last much longer.
The problem is, storm damage on a roof isn’t always easy to spot. Many homeowners don’t realize their roof is compromised until they experience leaks, mold, or costly structural damage. Knowing how to find storm damage on your roof can save you from expensive repairs down the line.
To help you stay ahead of potential issues, here are five practical tips to assessing storm damage on your roof and what to do if you find signs of trouble.
1. Start with a Ground-Level Inspection
Before attempting to climb onto your roof, begin your assessment from the ground. You can often spot damage without putting yourself at risk.
Signs to Look for on the Roof
- Missing or lifted shingles – Strong winds can rip shingles away or loosen them, making your roof vulnerable to water infiltration.
- Dark patches or bruises on shingles – These are signs of hail damage that can weaken your roof’s integrity.
- Bent or detached flashing – Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is essential for keeping water out. If it’s damaged, leaks can occur.
What to Check Around Your Property
- Shingle debris in the yard – If you find pieces of shingles scattered around, your roof has likely sustained damage.
- Clogged gutters with granules – Asphalt shingles shed granules when they deteriorate. A buildup in your gutters suggests significant wear.
- Dents or damage to siding, fences, or cars – If hail or wind damaged other parts of your property, your roof may have been affected as well.
If any of these signs are present, it’s time to take a closer look.
2. Check for Interior Water Damage
Even if everything looks fine outside, the real trouble might be inside your home. Storm damage on a roof often leads to hidden leaks that cause problems over time.
Warning Signs of Roof Leaks Inside Your Home
- Water stains on ceilings or walls – Brown or yellow discoloration is a telltale sign of moisture intrusion.
- Peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper – Excess moisture can cause interior surfaces to warp.
- A musty smell in the attic – Mold and mildew thrive in damp environments, and a musty odor may indicate water penetration.
After a storm, check your attic with a flashlight for wet insulation, damp rafters, or signs of mold growth. Catching a small leak early can prevent extensive structural damage.
3. Assess for Hail Damage
Hailstorms are notorious for damaging roofs, but the effects are not always obvious from the ground. Knowing how to find storm damage on your roof caused by hail requires a closer inspection.
How to Identify Hail Damage
- Dents or soft spots on shingles – Press lightly on darker areas; if they feel soft, the underlying material is damaged.
- Excessive granule loss – If your shingles are shedding granules, their protective layer is wearing down.
- Dents in roof vents, gutters, or flashing – If hail damaged metal components, your shingles likely took a hit as well.
Hail damage weakens your roof over time, making it more susceptible to leaks and deterioration. A professional inspection can help determine whether repairs or a full roof replacement are necessary.
4. Check for Wind Damage
Strong winds can cause severe storm damage on a roof, even if there are no visible missing shingles.
Signs of Wind Damage
- Curling or lifted shingles – Wind can weaken the adhesive seal on shingles, leaving them vulnerable to further damage.
- Loose or displaced shingles – A partially lifted shingle may look intact but can allow water to seep underneath.
- Visible gaps or tears in roofing materials – These small openings can lead to leaks and interior damage over time.
Wind damage may not be noticeable right away, but over time, it can compromise the structure of your roof. If a recent storm brought strong winds, it’s best to schedule an inspection.
5. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Even if you’ve done a thorough check, some types of storm damage on a roof require a trained eye. A professional inspection ensures that all issues are identified before they become major problems.
Why Choose Ryson Roofing?
- Free roof inspections – We assess the extent of storm damage and provide expert recommendations.
- Experience with insurance claims – We help homeowners navigate the claims process to get the coverage they need.
- Over 20 years of experience – Our team understands the unique challenges of roofs in Baton Rouge.
Waiting too long to address roof damage can lead to more costly repairs. If you suspect your roof was affected by a recent storm, now is the time to act.
Protect Your Home Before the Next Storm
Storms can cause more damage than meets the eye, and small issues can quickly escalate into major problems if left unchecked. The best way to protect your home is to schedule a professional inspection as soon as possible.
Don’t wait until a minor issue turns into a major expense. Contact Ryson Roofing today and ensure your home is protected before the next storm.
