How to Check Your Roof After a Storm or Monsoon

Damaged roofs can worsen over time, especially in the monsoon season; some damages cause leaks that lead to mold. Assessing your roof for potential damage after a storm or monsoon is wise. Here’s how you can do it:

Visible storm damage to shingles

Check Your Roof for Visible Damage

Start by doing a visual inspection of your roof from the ground. Look for noticeable signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, broken gutters, or debris, and take note of anything that may look damaged or out of place. Be sure to check your property for tiles, shingles, or pieces of metal that may have blown off your roof.

Remember, safety comes first – it’s not wise to attempt climbing onto your roof, especially after a storm when it could be slippery or unstable.

Shingles damaged after hail storm

Check Your Shingles or Look Over Tile

Shingles and tile are your roof’s first defense against the elements, so ensuring they’re in good condition is essential.

Look for signs of damage, such as curling, cracking, or missing shingles. If you notice any buckling or lifting shingles, this could indicate that the adhesive strips beneath them have failed, leaving your roof vulnerable to wind damage. Also, check for loose granules – these are a sign that your shingles are wearing out and may need replacing.

Look for missing tiles. Check whether they’re broken, cracked, or out of place. Any of these signs can mean damage to the roof; at a minimum, it means the top of your house is not sound and needs further inspection. Like shingles, loose, missing, or cracked tiles make your roof more vulnerable.

Remember, damaged or missing shingles or tiles provide a pathway for water to enter your home, so addressing these issues is crucial.

Window screen damaged by wind and hail after storm

Check Your Windows for Damage

Look closely at your windows to ensure none or broken or cracked. Check your screens for rips and ensure they’re securely on each window. Screens protect your windows. If they have a tear or are missing, there is an increased chance that debris will quickly break them.

Check the weatherstripping around each window carefully. Weatherstripping keeps your home sealed, stopping air leaks and preventing rain from getting into your home.

Ceiling leak in home after storm

Check the Ceilings and Light Fixtures in Your Home

Even if your home’s roof looks okay from the ground during your initial inspection, hail and wind from monsoons and severe storms can cause damage to your roof. Walk throughout your house looking for inside leaks; check every room’s light fixture and ceiling. Water spots are noticeable and indicate that there may be a bigger problem. If left untreated, leaks can lead to mold, which is highly hazardous and expensive. Use a flashlight to check dark areas and promptly address any water damage you find.

Leak in Attic after storm

Checking Your Attic

Remember to check your attic. Look for signs of water damage, such as stains or wet insulation, which could indicate a leak in your roof. Look for holes and cracks by looking for daylight showing through the top.

If you notice any sagging in the roof deck from inside the attic, this could be a sign of more severe water damage or structural issues. Pay attention to the smell as well – a musty odor could suggest the presence of mold, which often accompanies water damage.

If you find Issues Call a Professional Contractor

If you find issues during your inspection, address them quickly. You can replace a screen on your own or re-caulk weatherstripping. Still, if you need help fixing a problem or feel uncomfortable doing it, call an appropriate professional contractor.

If you find issues with your roof or roofing system, it’s essential to address them quickly. Contact a licensed professional roofing company to inspect your roof and home.

Icon Roofing often repairs roofs and roofing systems damaged by monsoons and storms; we work with homeowner’s insurance and serve the metro Phoenix area.