Storms can wreak havoc on your home, and your roof is often the first line of defense to take the brunt of the damage. High winds, heavy rain, hail, or falling debris can leave your roof vulnerable, compromising the safety and comfort of your home. Taking swift action after a storm is crucial to prevent further damage and restore your roof’s integrity. Understanding the essential steps necessary for complete storm damage repair and recovery is crucial to the protection of your investment.
To learn more, or to schedule a consultation with a local Missoula, MT expert, call Schrock Roofing today at 406-961-2990.
After the Storm
These are the steps you need to take to guide you through storm damage roof repair and recovery.
Damage Estimation
Once the storm has passed and it’s safe to go outside, start by checking the roof’s condition. Use binoculars from the ground to look for visible damage such as:
- Missing or broken shingles.
- Dented or cracked flashing.
- Broken gutters or downpipes.
- Loose or sagging sections of the roof.
If you think that the damage is extensive, do not go up on the roof as it may be dangerous. Rather, contact an experienced roofing contractor and let him do the inspection.
Photographic Evidence of the Damage
Before beginning storm damage roof repair, documenting the damage is a requirement for your insurance company. Make sure to check that the photos and videos show all visible damage.
A well-documented loss helps in the claim process as well as ensuring that you receive proper compensation from the insurance company.
Mitigate Immediate Issues
In the event of roof damage, here is how to minimize damage until the professionals can assist.
- Use tarps and water-proof tape to cover any holes or large leaks.
- Clear remnants like tree branches and leaves from the roof.
- A bucket or pan can be placed underneath any leaking areas to collect water and protect your flooring.
Contact Your Insurance Carrier
As soon as you can, send a claim to your homeowner insurance provider. Make sure you inform them of any damage and temporary repairs that you have made. An adjuster may visit your property to evaluate the damage and determine the validity of your claim.
Contact a Professional
Though a professional would have assisted with all the other steps, you have now reached a point where the use of a qualified professional is mandatory.
Beware of storm chaser contractors, they come unsolicited and become your nightmare by providing deceptively cheap yet horrifically low quality repairs.
Repair or Replace Your Roof
Once the contractor has assessed the damage, they’ll recommend either repairing or replacing the roof based on its condition.
- Repairs: Minor damage, such as a few missing shingles or small leaks, can often be resolved with targeted repairs.
- Replacement: Extensive damage, especially to older roofs, may warrant a full replacement to ensure long-term protection.
During this process, consider upgrading to more durable materials, such as impact-resistant shingles, to better withstand future storms.
Post Repair Inspection and Maintenance
After the repairs are completed, inspect the work to ensure everything has been restored properly. A professional contractor should provide a warranty for their work and materials.
To prevent future storm damage:
- Schedule regular roof inspections, especially after severe weather.
- Keep gutters and downspouts clear to ensure proper drainage.
- Trim overhanging tree branches to minimize the risk of falling debris.
Missoula Storm Damage Roof Repair Professionals
In the Missoula, MT region, you can receive immediate assistance after the storm from your local experts. Schrock Roofing will immediately perform the necessary assessment, document the damage, assist with claim filing, and manage the repair/replacement with courtesy and craftsmanship.
To learn more about protecting your home from storm damage, call our experts today at 406-961-2990 and schedule a consultation.
Roofing Contractor Missoula MT
storm damage roof repair missoula mt