In Kansas, we know all about summer storms and the damage they can cause. It’s natural to look for damage to your home after a big storm. But roof storm damage isn’t always obvious. You might never see it before it becomes a major issue. Even small failures can let water into the interior of your home, causing stains, mold, and even structural damage.
That’s why it’s important to know what to look for. With 20 years serving South Central Kansas homeowners, American Roofing is dedicated to ensuring that your home is protected, so much so that we offer free inspections. We know spotting hidden storm damage as early as possible can save you from the stress and financial burden of dealing with major issues. With that in mind, here are tips to help you spot problems before they turn into a major leak.
Spot Hidden Storm Damage Inside Your Home
Sometimes storm damage can be so hidden you won’t know it’s there until water has already entered your home. If you see any of the following inside your home, it’s time to inspect your home’s roof and exterior for damage:
- Ceiling discoloration (faint shadows or yellow/brown rings)
- Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
- Musty smells in the attic or upper rooms
- Damp insulation in the attic
- Sunlight shining through roof boards
Use Subtle Roof Clues to Spot Hidden Storm Damage
If you see interior water damage, the best place to start looking for damage is your roof. You can start with what you can see from the ground. Missing or misaligned shingles along with exposed underlayment or flashing are an obvious sign of storm damage. You should also look out for shingles with curled or lifted edges and dark spots. Additionally, take a close look at your roof line. An uneven roof line indicates potential structural damage that may require immediate roof repair or replacement.
Check Gutters and Downspouts
Another strong sign of storm damage can be found in your gutters and downspouts. Shingles lose granules over time. However, finding an excess of these granules in your gutters can indicate that your shingles have reached the end of their effectiveness. Another potential sign of damage you might find in gutters and downspouts is metal fragments. That would indicate severe damage to flashing and vents. Finally, if you start to see your gutters consistently clog and overflow, this is a sign that they are full of debris and need to be investigated further.
Inspect Flashing, Vents, and Roof Penetrations
Only inspect your roof from a safe location, and call a professional if you are unsure.
When you are able to check your roof up close, it’s vital that you look for more than just shingle damage. Shingles may look intact but other components on your roof may have taken a hit, especially after a hail storm. Look for:
- Cracked rubber boots around vents
- Loose or rusted flashing
- Gaps around skylights or pipe penetrations
These are some of the most common leak entry points so be sure to inspect them thoroughly after a storm.
Look For Hidden Storm Damage Around Your Home’s Exterior
Although it bears the brunt of the impact in a storm, your roof is only one of the places that damage can occur on the outside of your home. Damaged windows or siding can cause leaks. Dented or damaged gutters can cause water to collect and overflow, causing potential water damage. Fallen limbs can cause damage to many parts of your home’s exterior.
If you see any damage to the exterior of your home, it’s safe to assume your roof took a hit too.
Act Quickly and Call A Pro
Even damage that seems minor can have a huge impact. If you see any sign of storm damage, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Before inspecting your property, make sure the severe weather threat has passed. The National Weather Service offers helpful guidance on what to do after severe weather, including how to stay safe while checking your home for damage.
To help your post-storm inspection, here’s a quick checklist of where to look and what to look for:
- Check attic for moisture
- Inspect ceilings for stains or shadowing
- Examine walls for bubbling or peeling
- Ensure gutters are free of granules or debris
- Scan roof from the ground and at ladder level
- Look closely at flashing, vents, and roof penetrations
Request An Inspection Today!
Contact American Roofing & Construction today at 316‑461‑6565 or request your free roof inspection online. Our experienced team will inspect, repair, and restore your roof so your home stays dry and protected all year long.