With severe weather season in full swing in Texas, your roof may have been damaged from wind and hail. Unfortunately, the damage to your roof might not be obvious when it first happens. We frequently hear from homeowners who have noticed roof damage long after the storms have passed.
By inspecting your roof after a storm, you may notice minor problems before they become more significant problems. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Untreated roof damage can lead to damage in other parts of your home as well as costing you more in repairs. You can avoid this by checking your roof occasionally, particularly after storms, for signs of damage.
Signs of Roof Damage
Cracked or damaged shingles
Cracked shingles are a classic sign of roof damage. The granules on your shingles protect them from the elements. When they wear off, your shingles get exposed to harsh sun and weather damage, which can lead to cracking.
Discoloration
If you notice dark streaks on your roof, it’s likely algae or moss. This can occur near small leaks.
Parts of shingles in your yard. Wind damage may cause parts of your roof to blow into your yard. If you find one or more shingles in your yard, you should definitely have your roof inspected.
Shingles that are out of place
Even if they haven’t blown off your roof yet, shingles that have been dislodged, or are out of place, are a sign of roof damage. You may need a closer inspection of your roof to see these since they may not be noticeable from your yard. You can use a ladder or a pair of binoculars if needed.
Water spots or sagging on your ceiling
Signs of water damage on your ceiling could indicate you have damage to your roof. If you see this, check your attic, since water leaks often show up there first.
Granules washing off of your shingles
It’s normal for some granules to fall off your shingles, but if you start to notice a lot of granules washing out in your gutters and downspouts, it can be a sign of roof damage. Check your roof for signs of pitting where the granules have come off. This is particularly common with hail damage.
When to File a Claim
It’s always best to have your roof inspected when you first notice any signs of damage so you can file a claim as soon as possible. Reputable roofing contractors will offer a free inspection. Finding and fixing roof damage early is the key to preventing more damage to the rest of your house. It’s also easier to prove the damage was caused by a storm if you file a claim soon after the damage occurs.
However, it’s not always possible to file a claim right away. Maybe the damage wasn’t visible, or you didn’t notice it until you developed a leak. Whatever the reason, most insurance companies allow you to file a claim up to a year after the damage occurred. Check with your homeowner’s insurance company for the details of your policy.
If you suspect you may have hail or wind damage, contact CanTex Roofing & Construction. We serve a large portion of Western and Central Texas, with locations in Lubbock/Idalou, Amarillo, and New Braunfels.
