High winds can loosen or break shingles, and heavy rain may cause leaks, so inspecting your roof after a big storm is always a good idea. Licensed roofing contractors in Northern Virginia can help you assess the damage and make the necessary repairs.
But how do you know if there is roof damage after a storm? Here are a few things to look for:
Different Types of Damage
Inspecting a roof is easier if you are familiar with the different types of damage that occur. The first step is to learn about the different kinds of damage before you begin assessing your roof repair.
Wind
After a storm, look closely at your roof for any missing or damaged shingles. Also, check for any loose or damaged gutters or flashing. If you see any of these signs, it's important to contact qualified roofers in Northern Virginia as soon as possible.
Hail
Hail may damage your roof, which, if left unrepaired, leads to costly repairs down the road. Here are a few things your local roofing contractors are looking for in a hail inspection:
• Dents or dimples in shingles or metal
• Bruising or granule loss on shingles
• Cracked or broken shingles
Water
Water damage occurs when water seeps into your home through cracks or holes in the roof or walls. Once water enters your home, it causes mold and mildew growth, damaging your belongings and making your home's atmosphere unsafe.
Water damage may lead to other severe problems for your home, including structural roof deterioration and electrical issues. If you suspect water is damaging your home, contact a local licensed and insured roofing company in Northern Virginia to help you assess the damage and provide the best course of action.
Debris
Debris is anything from small twigs and branches to large pieces of debris like tree limbs and even whole trees. Small objects such as twigs, leaves, and acorns may accumulate on your roof during a storm and clog drains, leading to a higher risk of damage.
Larger debris may cause damage to your roofing materials, including shingles, tiles, gutters, or even the structure beneath. The longer you wait, the higher risk of more extensive damage and the more expensive it will be to fix.
Ice and Snow
When ice melts and re-freezes, it creates an ice dam. Ice dams eventually cause the shingles to lift, allowing water to seep in and causing extensive damage. More snow also accumulates on your roof, putting unnecessary stress on the structure.
Another way that ice and snow deteriorate your roof is through the weight of the snow itself. Heavy snow will cause the roof to collapse if your roof's structure is already extensively damaged.
If there is already water damage to your roof, the ice and snow exacerbate the problem, leading to more severe leaks and further damage.
Hire a Reputable Contractor
At A&M Roofing, we often get calls from concerned homeowners after a bad storm. Sometimes, the damage is minor and easily repaired by homeowners. However, if the damage is more severe, hiring a reputable contractor for roof repair in Northern VA is vital.
A reputable licensed, and insured roofing company will have the experience and knowledge to repair your roof, ensuring it withstands future storms properly.