Throughout the Carolinas, bad storms are a potential threat for much of the year. From severe summer thunderstorms in inland areas to the possibility of hurricanes on the coast, homeowners need to be as prepared as they can be for how to handle storm damage. Roofs often take a particularly heavy beating when storms hit. Because of this, it is imperative for homeowners to know what warning signs to look for in the hours and days following a bad storm if they want to figure out whether or not they are dealing with roof damage.
In this guide, you will see information about some of the issues you ought to be on the lookout for after a storm hits your area. While you can certainly spot some of these things on your own, you should also consider scheduling a time for a professional roofer to inspect your property. He or she will know the information you aren’t aware of regarding storm damage and may catch problems you would never have noticed!
- Water leaks inside your house – One of the main ways to know you are going to have to contend with roof damage after a storm isn’t actually visible outside. Instead, you should be on the lookout for interior leaks, specifically from your ceilings. This probably means your roof has been severely damaged and needs to be repaired or replaced quickly to prevent further problems.
- Missing or loose shingles – Sometimes, particularly when hurricane-force winds hit the Carolina coast, asphalt shingles partially or entirely break loose, leaving the roof sections underneath of them vulnerable. If there are damaged or missing shingles along the edge of your home’s roofline, you will probably be able to see them yourself from the ground. To find shingle damage on other parts of the roof, though, a professional will need to climb up and take a look around.
- Bubbling – When water seeps under roofing materials, especially asphalt shingles, it can cause areas of bubbling. If you notice this problem, moisture has certainly gathered under the surface of the roof and is probably already causing damage. In most cases, at least part of your home’s roof will need to be replaced if bubbling has occurred.
- Bent or cracked gutter systems – Your home’s gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of your residence. If you’re like a lot of people, you don’t even realize how important your gutter system is until something goes wrong with it. After a storm, check for bent or cracked gutters and downspouts. If you notice a problem, contact a reputable Carolina gutter installation company right away.
If your area recently experienced a storm and you are concerned you have roof damage, don’t hesitate to contact the Hatch Homes team to find out if our service offerings align with the repairs you need. Our skilled crew will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the state of your roof and will personally assess any damage. We look forward to speaking with you to see if we are a good fit for your upcoming renovation!