Storm Awareness

How to Spot Storm Damage Before It Spreads

After every storm, your roof tells a story. High winds, hail, and flying debris can cause damage that isn’t obvious right away but worsens with each rainfall. Knowing what to look for after a storm can save you thousands in future repairs and protect your home from hidden leaks.

“You can’t stop a storm, but you can control how quickly you respond.”

The Power of Hail and Wind

Hail may be small, but it can dent metal flashing, bruise shingles, and dislodge granules that protect against UV damage. High winds lift shingle edges and loosen fasteners, allowing water to enter underneath. Even if your roof looks fine from the ground, minor impact damage can lead to leaks months later.

What to Look for Outside

After storms, inspect safely from the ground or with binoculars. Look for missing or curled shingles, shiny nail heads, or dark patches where granules have worn away. Dented gutters or downspouts are often telltale signs of hail impact, even if you can’t see damage on the shingles themselves.

Clues Inside Your Home

Ceiling spots, damp insulation, or musty smells in the attic are red flags that moisture has found its way in. Because water travels along rafters and beams, leaks often appear far from their actual entry point. Early detection inside the home is just as critical as spotting outside damage.

Document Everything

Take photos, videos, and notes of anything that looks off — even if it’s small. Detailed documentation helps support insurance claims and tracks changes over time. When in doubt, mark the date and weather conditions; patterns often become clear after multiple storms.

When to Call a Professional

Some damage simply isn’t visible without climbing onto the roof. Schedule an inspection with a reputable local expert, especially if hail or high winds were reported nearby. Many inspectors working with homeowner advocacy programs like RoofAware offer no-obligation evaluations to help you make informed decisions.

Storms are unpredictable — but your response doesn’t have to be. With quick awareness and regular inspections, you can protect your roof, your home, and your peace of mind.