Wind Damage to Roof? (6 Steps to Manage Roof Storm Damage)

North Carolina weather can be unpredictable, and strong winds are a common concern for homeowners. When a severe storm hits, your roof is the first line of defense, but it can also take the biggest hit. Dealing with wind damage to roof systems can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to do immediately after a storm can prevent further issues and streamline the repair process.

This guide will walk you through the essential steps to take when you suspect your roof has been damaged by wind. We’ll cover everything from initial safety checks to navigating insurance claims, ensuring you have the information you need to protect your home. Here’s what we’ll discuss:

• Common signs of wind damage to a roof
• What to do after discovering roof wind damage
• How professional roofers can help
• The importance of timely roof repairs
• Navigating the insurance claim process

🔎 Common Signs of Wind Damage to a Roof

After a storm passes, it’s a good idea to check your property for any signs of damage. While some issues are obvious, others can be subtle. Knowing what to look for can help you identify problems early before they lead to more significant headaches like water leaks or structural damage.

Missing or Damaged Shingles

This is one of the most common and visible signs of wind damage. Walk around your property and look for:

• Bare Patches: Areas on your roof where shingles are completely gone.
• Shingles in Your Yard: Finding shingles on the ground is a clear indicator that your roof has lost some of its protective covering.
• Curled or Lifted Shingles: High winds can lift the edges of shingles, breaking the sealant that holds them down. These lifted shingles are vulnerable to being torn off in future storms and can allow water to seep underneath.
• Creased or Cracked Shingles: Wind can bend shingles back, causing a horizontal crease. This damages the shingle’s integrity and makes it susceptible to breaking.

Gutter and Downspout Damage

Your gutters are also susceptible to wind. Look for sections that are dented, detached, or sagging. You might also find an excessive amount of shingle granules—the sandpaper-like material that coats asphalt shingles—in your gutters. A large accumulation of these granules often means your shingles are aging or have been damaged, losing their protective layer.

Indoor Signs of a Leak

You don’t have to climb on your roof to spot signs of damage. Check inside your home, particularly in the attic, for:

• Water Stains: Discoloration on ceilings or walls is a classic sign of a roof leak.
• Damp Insulation: If your attic insulation feels wet, it’s a strong indication that water is getting in from above.
• Mold or Mildew Growth: A musty smell or visible mold growth points to a persistent moisture problem, likely stemming from a compromised roof.

👉 What to Do After Discovering Roof Wind Damage

Finding damage can be stressful, but taking a calm and methodical approach will help you manage the situation effectively. Here are the six steps you should follow if you suspect your roof has wind damage.

6 Steps to Manage Roof Storm Damage

1. Prioritize Safety: Your safety is the top priority. Do not climb onto a potentially damaged roof, especially if it’s wet or the storm is ongoing. Debris, downed power lines, and structural instability can all pose serious risks. Conduct your initial inspection from the ground.
2. Document Everything: Before any repairs are made, thoroughly document the damage. Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles, both of the roof itself (from a safe distance) and any debris in your yard, like fallen branches or missing shingles. Also, take pictures of any interior damage, such as water stains on the ceiling. This documentation will be crucial for your insurance claim.
3. Perform Temporary Fixes (If Safe): If you have minor damage and it’s safe to do so, you can make temporary repairs to prevent further water intrusion. This might involve covering a damaged area with a tarp. However, for anything more than a simple covering, it’s best to wait for a professional. Avoid attempting any repairs that put you at risk.
4. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the damage to your homeowner’s insurance provider as soon as possible. They will guide you on the next steps and likely schedule an adjuster to visit your property to assess the damage. Have your policy number and the documentation you’ve collected ready.
5. Call a Trusted Roofing Contractor: Contact a reputable roofing company, like Barkley-Jensen Roofing & Restoration, for a professional inspection. A professional roofer has the training and equipment to safely assess the full extent of the damage, some of which may not be visible from the ground.
6. Review Estimates and Plan Repairs: Your chosen contractor will provide a detailed estimate for the necessary repairs. Review this carefully and compare it with the assessment from your insurance adjuster. Once you understand the scope of work and have coordinated with your insurance, you can schedule the repairs.

🤝 How Professional Roofers Can Help

A professional roofing contractor is your most valuable partner when dealing with wind damage. Their expertise goes beyond simply fixing the problem. At Barkley-Jensen, our team provides a comprehensive service that includes:

• Thorough Inspections: We conduct a detailed inspection to identify all visible and hidden damage, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
• Detailed Reporting: We provide a comprehensive report of our findings, complete with photos, which you can use for your insurance claim.
• Expert Repairs: Our skilled technicians use high-quality materials and proven techniques to restore your roof’s integrity, ensuring it can withstand future weather events.
• Insurance Claim Assistance: We have extensive experience working with insurance companies and can help you navigate the claims process to ensure you receive the support you deserve.

👨‍🔧 Trust Barkley-Jensen for Your Roofing Needs

When your home has suffered from storm damage, you need a team you can rely on to get the job done right. At Barkley-Jensen Roofing & Restoration, we are “customer service obsessed.” We treat every home as if it were our own, providing clear communication, detailed guidance, and superior craftsmanship from the first call to the final inspection. Our deep understanding of North Carolina’s weather challenges means we know exactly what it takes to restore your roof and protect your property for years to come.

If you have experienced wind damage to your roof, don’t wait. Contact Barkley-Jensen today for a same-day inspection and let our trusted team restore your peace of mind.