When it comes to maintaining our homes, it's tempting to put off addressing those minor issues that can accumulate over time. However, when it comes to roof damage, procrastination is not an option. Among the various factors that can lead to roof problems, the damage inflicted by severe weather conditions stands out as one of the most serious concerns. 

While rain and snow might not pose a significant threat, the impact of powerful storms can result in roof emergencies. For those residing in storm-prone areas like Hampton, it is crucial to be well-prepared for potential damage.

In this post, we will delve into some invaluable tips for effective storm damage roof repair in Hampton.

Stay Calm!

Staying calm and taking action in the face of a roof disaster is the first and most crucial thing a homeowner can do. Taking timely assistance for serious damage from a professional repair service will spare you from future difficulties.

Assess the damage-

Your roof may be damaged by strong winds, downed branches, accumulations of snow, and other adverse weather-related situations. In order to assess the damage, get your roof examined by experts. Early damage assessment helps in identifying required repairs and saves more expensive damage. 

Consult with your contractor and insurance provider-

After assessing the condition of your roof, reach out to your insurance provider and contractor to describe the situation. When it comes to filing claims, insurance companies usually have a specific timeframe. It is vital to thoroughly document any roof damage and promptly submit your claim.

However, it's important to note that contacting them during a storm won't be beneficial, as no contractor or insurance provider can provide assistance when there are adverse weather conditions like rain, wind, or lightning.

Give immediate assistance on a roof in an emergency-

Before professional help arrives, there are certain actions you can take. Once the storm subsides and it is safe to venture outside, you can climb onto your roof and, if feasible, reposition any dislodged shingles to prevent leaks and safeguard your house.

If the damage is not extensive, you have a few options. You can apply roofing cement to cover any cracks or acquire additional shingles to install in the areas where they are missing. As a temporary solution, you can also use metal sheeting to cover the gaps left by the absent shingles.

Replacing the entire roof requires both time and financial resources, which may not be readily feasible. These repairs serve as temporary measures until you are able to undertake a complete roof replacement.

Which types of roof damage can be caused due to storms? 

Your home's roof represents a substantial investment, making it one of the most significant aspects to protect. Regrettably, inclement weather can lead to substantial damage, risking its structural stability. 

However, by familiarizing themselves with different types of roof damage, homeowners can proactively prevent further deterioration. Presented below are the prevailing forms of storm damage that roofs commonly endure, along with crucial information that every homeowner should be aware of.

Tree Damage-

What kind of harm can a tree cause to a house?

Weakened trees may fall during a storm, harming your roof's shingles and overall structure. Fallen trees can cause significant damage, requiring either an immediate roof repair or a full roof replacement from professionals.

How can I keep trees from damaging my roof?

If there are trees near your home, keep an eye on their health and provide them regular care. To reduce the chance that weak or sick trees will fall over, think about fully removing them. In addition, roofing professionals advise removing any tree branches that are six feet or closer to your roof since low-hanging limbs might damage and displace the shingles.

Does my insurance cover tree damage to my roof?

The Insurance Information Institute claims that a typical home's insurance policy will cover damage to your property caused by trees, regardless of whether they were caused by wind, lightning, or hail. Most likely, your insurance will contribute to the expense of repairing storm-damaged roofs. 

Wind Damage-

How much force of the wind may harm a roof? 

Your roof is particularly vulnerable to wind damage when wind speeds exceed 55 mph. Wind can uproot trees, carry debris that could impact your roof, and peel off shingles, resulting in structural damage to your home. Your roofing may be more susceptible to wind damage if it was improperly installed or if its shingles are damaged.

How does a wind-damaged roof appear?

Your roofing system may not be equally affected by high currents of winds. Instead, it may damage your roof's edges or may create weak spots with loose tiles. 

Typical wind roof damage includes the following:

Missing Shingle Granules:Shingle granules shield against the elements, but wind can dislodge them, reducing the lifespan of your shingles. Keep an eye on your gutters for accumulated granules.

Curled or Lifted Shingles: If you notice curled or raised shingles in areas like corners, edges, or near the chimney, it's a sign of wind damage to your roof. To have it assessed, reach out to a roofing specialist for an inspection.

Damaged Flashing: Your roof's flashing is crucial for protecting against water damage. Specifically, the chimney flashing is susceptible to lifting when exposed to strong winds. After a storm, it's important to examine your flashing for any indications of damage.

Water Damage: If your roof is damaged by wind, it may result in water seeping into your home and causing harm to its interior. Look out for signs like discoloration, flaking paint, and damp spots, which are typical indications of leaks. To avoid additional damage, promptly contact a contractor as soon as you notice any symptoms of wind damage.

Lightning Damage-

What happens if lightning strikes my roof?

Lightning poses a serious threat to your roof, causing significant harm such as shingle penetration, gutter tearing, attic damage, and roof collapse. It can even displace chimney bricks and other roof elements. 

Moreover, when lightning strikes in close proximity to electrical wires, the risk of fire breakout increases. Therefore, prompt action is essential in the event of roof damage caused by a lightning bolt. Reach out to a trustworthy roofing contractor immediately to arrange an emergency roof repair and a comprehensive damage assessment.

What signs do you notice when lightning strikes your roof?

If you're at home during a lightning strike, you'll experience a sudden explosion-like sound accompanied by a bright flash. Damage to your roof from the lightning strike may be evident, such as holes, loose bricks, or cracked shingles. Expect a potential power outage and be alert to the scent of smoke or melting plastic.

What can you do to stop roof damage from lightning? 

Invest in a roof lightning protection system featuring a rod that redirects lightning bolts away from your home and into the ground. Swap out wood shingles for Class A fire-resistant asphalt or fiberglass shingles.

Conclusion


If your property in Hampton has been affected by roof damage due to a storm, there is no need to waste time searching online for nearby emergency roof repair options. Better turn to the professionals at Hampton Roofing Contractor. Their experienced team will assess your roof damage thoroughly and determine the required repairs along with affordable roof cleaning costs in Hampton. They also offer warranties on materials and workmanship to ensure complete peace of mind throughout the year.