Living in Northern Colorado means dealing with a variety of weather conditions, from hailstorms and high winds to heavy snowfall. These weather events can cause significant damage to your home, particularly to your roof. Knowing what to do after a storm can help you protect your home and avoid costly repairs. At Crazy Horse Roofing, we’ve put together a comprehensive roof storm damage checklist to guide you through the process.
Types of Roof Storm Damage
Understanding the types of damage your roof might sustain during a storm is the first step in assessing its condition. Here’s a breakdown of common storm-related roof damage:
1. Wind Damage
- High Winds: Winds from storms can easily exceed 50 mph in Northern Colorado, and strong gusts can rip shingles off your roof or cause them to curl and lift. This compromises the integrity of your roof and can lead to water infiltration.
- Gale-Force Winds: Winds between 39-54 mph can tear and lift shingles, breaking the water-tight seal and making your roof vulnerable to leaks.
2. Hail Damage
- Shingle Granule Loss: Hailstorms can knock granules off your shingles, reducing their effectiveness and exposing your roof to the elements. Granule loss can also be spotted by finding granules in your gutters or downspouts.
- Dents and Pockmarks: Hailstones can create dents or pockmarks in shingles, which may reduce your roof’s aesthetic appeal and weaken the material.
3. Water Damage
- Standing Water: Poor drainage or clogged gutters can lead to standing water on your roof, which can seep into your home’s structure, causing rot and mold.
- Water Back-Up: When gutters are clogged, rainwater can back up under the shingles, allowing moisture to penetrate the roof deck.
4. Debris Damage
- Fallen Branches: Storms often bring down tree limbs or other debris that can impact your roof, causing punctures or shingle damage.
- Heavy Debris: Larger debris, such as entire trees or large branches, can cause significant damage, potentially even breaking through the roof.
Roof Storm Damage Checklist
After a storm, it’s crucial to assess your roof for damage as soon as it’s safe to do so. Use this checklist to guide your inspection:
1. Schedule and Conduct a Roof Inspection
- Safety First: If there’s significant damage, it’s best to contact a professional roofing contractor like Crazy Horse Roofing to conduct a thorough inspection. Avoid climbing onto your roof if it’s wet or slippery.
- Visual Inspection: Walk around your home’s perimeter to visually inspect the roof. Look for missing, torn, or curled shingles. Take note of any areas where shingles are missing or damaged.
2. Inspect Gutters, Vents, and Windows
- Gutters: Check for dents in gutters and downspouts, which may indicate hail damage. Ensure gutters are securely attached and functioning properly.
- Vents: Inspect roof vents, gable vents, and other roofing accessories for dents or damage. These components are often made of metal and can be easily dented by hail or flying debris.
- Windows: Look for cracks, broken glass, or damage to window frames and screens. Damaged windows can allow water to enter your home, leading to further issues.
3. Check Exterior and Surrounding Areas
- Fallen Debris: Walk around your yard to check for fallen branches or other debris that may have impacted your roof.
- Outdoor Fixtures: Inspect patios, decks, fences, and outdoor furniture for storm-related damage. These areas can also give you clues about the severity of the storm.
4. Inspect the Attic and Ceilings
- Water Leaks: Head into your attic with a flashlight to check for any signs of leaks. Look for water stains, damp insulation, or mold growth.
- Ceiling Inspection: Walk through each room of your home and inspect the ceilings for discoloration, sagging, or water spots. Even if your roof looks fine from the outside, there may be hidden damage that’s only visible indoors.
5. Clean and Inspect Gutters
- Clear Debris: Once the initial inspection is done, clean out any debris from your gutters. This will help prevent future water damage and improve your roof’s drainage.
- Check for Clogs: Ensure downspouts are clear and that water can flow freely away from your home’s foundation.
6. Document the Damage
- Take Photos: Document all visible damage with photographs. This can be useful when filing an insurance claim.
- Keep Records: Make notes of any damage you observe and keep these records safe for future reference. This information will be helpful when you contact your insurance provider or roofing contractor.
Hire a Trusted Roofing Contractor
After conducting your initial assessment, the next step is to hire a reliable roofing contractor to thoroughly inspect the roof storm damage and provide an estimate for repairs. Here’s what to look for when choosing a contractor:
1. Credentials
- Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the contractor is licensed and insured to perform roofing work in Northern Colorado.
- Certifications: Look for contractors with certifications from reputable manufacturers or industry organizations, such as being part of the Owens Corning Roofing Contractor Network.
2. Reputation
- Online Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge the contractor’s reputation.
- Referrals: Ask friends, family, or neighbors for referrals to reputable roofing contractors they’ve used.
3. Clear Communication
- Detailed Estimates: A trustworthy contractor will provide a clear, detailed estimate of the work required, including a breakdown of materials and labor costs.
- Warranties: Ensure the contractor offers a strong warranty on both materials and workmanship.
Contact Your Homeowners Insurance Provider
If your roof has sustained significant roof storm damage, it’s essential to contact your homeowners insurance provider promptly. Here’s how to proceed:
1. File a Claim
- Documentation: Use the notes and photos you took during your inspection to help file your claim. This information will support your case and expedite the process.
- Insurance Adjuster: Your insurance company may send an adjuster to assess the damage. Be sure to be present during this inspection to ensure all damage is documented.
2. Review Your Policy
- Coverage: Understand what your policy covers and any deductibles that may apply. This will help you prepare financially for any out-of-pocket expenses.
- Repair Process: Work with your insurance company and roofing contractor to coordinate the necessary repairs and ensure they are completed to your satisfaction.
Protect Your Home with Crazy Horse Roofing
Storms can cause significant roof storm damage to your roof, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. By following this checklist and working with a trusted roofing contractor like Crazy Horse Roofing, you can ensure your home is protected and that any necessary repairs are handled professionally.
If your home has been hit by a storm, don’t wait—contact Crazy Horse Roofing today for a thorough roof inspection and expert repair services. Visit crazyhorseroofing.com to schedule an appointment.
