How To Tell If Your Roof Was Damaged After a Storm

After a major storm, the first step is to walk around your property and visually inspect the roof from the ground. Look for missing shingles, broken tiles, or debris buildup. Even if everything looks mostly intact, damage may still exist that isn't visible from below. Be sure to also examine gutters and downspouts—dislodged sections or overflowing debris can be signs of roofing damage.

Check for Shingle Damage Up Close

If it’s safe to do so or you hire a professional, an up-close inspection can reveal more details. Look for shingles that are curled, cracked, dented, or entirely missing. Hail can leave behind small circular indentations, while high winds may tear shingles from their placement. Even slight warping can expose your home to water leaks in the future.

Inspect for Interior Water Damage

Roof damage often shows up inside the home. Check ceilings and walls for signs of water intrusion like stains, bubbling paint, or mold. If you notice discoloration or moisture in your attic, it may be the result of a roof leak that started during the storm. Be especially cautious if the storm included hail or sustained high winds, as these can cause subtle but serious structural issues.

Pay Attention to Roofing Accessories and Flashing

Skylights, vents, and flashing are common weak points. After a storm, inspect these areas for loosened materials or separation from the roof surface. Damaged flashing can cause water to enter around chimneys or roof valleys, which can be hard to detect until the damage becomes severe. Bent or missing flashing should be repaired promptly to prevent leaks.

Look for Granule Loss in Gutters

Asphalt shingles are coated with granules to protect against UV rays and water damage. After a storm, check your gutters and downspouts for an unusual amount of granules—this is often a sign of hail or wind damage. Excessive granule loss significantly reduces the effectiveness of your shingles and may indicate that roof replacement is necessary.

Evaluate Tree Damage and Debris

If branches or limbs have fallen onto your roof, even if they didn’t puncture the surface, they could have caused structural damage or displaced shingles. Remove debris carefully and look underneath for dents or cracks. Overhanging trees should be trimmed regularly to reduce the risk of storm-related damage in the future.

When in Doubt, Call a Professional

Some storm damage may not be visible right away or might seem minor at first. However, what looks like small cosmetic issues can quickly lead to costly repairs if ignored. Fulbright Services offers expert roof inspections in Waco, Texas, to assess storm damage, file insurance claims, and recommend appropriate repairs or replacements.

Protect Your Investment with Prompt Action

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Identifying and addressing storm damage early helps prevent bigger problems down the road. Whether it’s obvious destruction or subtle signs, it’s important to act quickly. With professional help from Fulbright Services, you can make sure your roof is ready to weather the next storm.