Roofing Tips & Guides
Expert Roofing Advice for Charlotte Homeowners
Learn from Charlotte's trusted roofing experts. Tips on maintenance, repair, replacement, and protecting your home from the elements.
Learn from Charlotte's trusted roofing experts. Tips on maintenance, repair, replacement, and protecting your home from the elements.
When severe weather strikes Charlotte and surrounding areas, your roof serves as your home's first line of defense. But how do you know when a storm has actually damaged your roof? And what exactly qualifies as "storm damage" that might be covered by insurance?
As a homeowner, understanding what constitutes roofing storm damage is crucial for maintaining your property and knowing when to file an insurance claim. Let's break down the different types of storm damage and how to identify them.
High winds can wreak havoc on your roof, often in ways that aren't immediately visible from the ground. Wind damage typically occurs when gusts exceed 45-50 mph, but even moderate winds can damage already weakened roofing materials.
"Wind damage is particularly deceptive because it often creates vulnerabilities that don't cause leaks immediately. A few lifted shingles today can mean major water damage after the next rainfall." – James Turner, Owner of Best Roofing Now
Even if your roof has only lost a few shingles, it's important to address the issue promptly. Once the protective layer of your roof is compromised, water can seep in and cause extensive damage to your home's structure.
Hail is particularly destructive to roofing materials. Unlike wind damage, which might only affect certain sections, hail typically impacts the entire roof surface. The severity depends on the hailstone size, density, and the wind speed during the storm.
Hail damage is often not immediately obvious to the untrained eye, especially on asphalt shingles. Professional inspectors know to look for subtle indicators that most homeowners might miss. If you've experienced a hailstorm, it's worth scheduling a professional inspection with our team at Best Roofing Now to assess potential damage.
While water itself is a primary concern for your roof (after all, roofs are designed to shed water), excessive rainfall during storms can expose vulnerabilities or create new problems.
Water damage often manifests inside your home as water stains on ceilings or walls, drips during rainfall, or musty odors indicating mold growth. If you notice any of these signs after a storm, contact us immediately for emergency roof damage assessment.
Storms often bring more than just wind and rain – they can turn tree branches, lawn furniture, and other objects into projectiles that damage your roof on impact.
Debris damage is often the most visible form of storm damage and should be addressed immediately to prevent water intrusion. After a severe storm, it's wise to scan your property for fallen branches or other items that may have impacted your roof.
Though less common than other types of storm damage, lightning strikes can be catastrophic for roofing systems.
If your home takes a direct lightning hit, you'll likely know it – the sound and impact are unmistakable. However, even nearby strikes can cause damage that requires professional assessment.
Not all storm damage is immediately obvious. Some issues develop slowly over time after the initial damage occurs. This "latent damage" can include:
"The most expensive roof repairs we see are almost always from homeowners who ignored or missed minor storm damage that worsened over time. A small investment in a professional inspection can save thousands in repairs down the road." – Industry Expert
This is why we recommend a professional inspection after any significant storm event, even if you don't notice obvious damage. Our roof inspection services are thorough and can detect issues before they become major problems.
If you believe your roof has sustained storm damage, follow these steps:
Document everything: Take dated photos of visible damage and make notes about when the storm occurred.
Schedule a professional inspection: Contact our team at Best Roofing Now for a comprehensive assessment.
Review your insurance policy: Understand what's covered before filing a claim. Most homeowner's policies cover storm damage, but coverage details vary.
Get a detailed repair estimate: We provide thorough documentation to support your insurance claim.
Implement temporary solutions if needed: For serious damage, emergency tarping or other temporary measures may be necessary to prevent further damage while you arrange permanent repairs.
File an insurance claim if warranted: Use your documentation and professional assessment to support your claim.
Choose a reputable contractor: Select an experienced, local roofing company like Best Roofing Now that specializes in storm damage repairs.
While you can't prevent storms, you can take steps to minimize potential damage:
Regular maintenance: Schedule annual inspections to identify and address vulnerabilities before storms hit.
Trim trees near your home: Remove dead branches and maintain tree health to reduce debris risk.
Secure loose items: Before a storm, secure or store outdoor furniture, toys, and other items that could become projectiles.
Consider impact-resistant materials: When it's time for a roof replacement, explore eco-friendly roofing materials and impact-resistant options that stand up better to severe weather.
Install proper drainage systems: Ensure gutters, downspouts, and drainage channels are adequately sized and well-maintained.
While some minor storm damage might seem manageable as a DIY project, most storm-related roofing issues require professional attention. You should contact our team at Best Roofing Now when:
Our emergency roof damage assessment service provides quick response when you need it most.
Most homeowner's insurance policies cover sudden and accidental damage caused by storms, but the claims process can be complex. To improve your chances of a successful claim:
As your local roofing experts, we've helped countless Charlotte homeowners navigate the insurance claims process. We can provide the documentation and support you need for a successful claim.
Storm damage to your roof can range from obvious (missing shingles and visible holes) to subtle (microcracks and loosened seals). Recognizing these signs early and addressing them promptly is crucial to protecting your home and preventing more extensive damage.
If you've recently experienced severe weather in the Charlotte area, don't wait for leaks to appear before getting your roof checked. Contact us at Best Roofing Now for a comprehensive storm damage assessment. Our experienced team can identify issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye and provide professional repairs that restore your roof's integrity.
Remember, when it comes to storm damage, early detection and professional repair are your best defenses against costly structural problems down the road. Your roof protects everything beneath it – make sure it gets the care it deserves after severe weather.
Best Roofing Now
Charlotte's trusted roofing experts since 2019
Need help with your roof? Explore our professional roofing services in Charlotte NC.
Get a free roof inspection and honest assessment from Charlotte's most trusted roofing company.
