How to Assess Emergency Roof Repair Needs After Winter Storms
How to Assess Storm Damage in MA
Winter storms in Massachusetts can be particularly harsh - bringing heavy snow, ice, and strong winds that can wreak havoc on your home's roof. Identifying damage early can prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you determine if you need emergency roof repair by experienced roofing contractors after a winter storm:
Visually Inspect the Entire Roof from the Ground Level
Check for damaged or missing shingles. From the ground, look for any shingles that appear out of place, missing, or hanging off. High winds can often lift or tear shingles, therefore exposing the underlayment to the elements. Check your yard for signs of debris, granules from asphalt shingles, or pieces of other roofing materials that could indicate significant wear or damage.
Use Binoculars or Drones for a Closer Look at Roof Leaks
If you can't get on the roof, try using binoculars to get a closer look. If necessary, hire a drone service or a roofing company to inspect for any visible cracks or holes in the roof shingles.
Inspect Gutters and Downspouts for Clogs or Damage
During winter, ice dams can form and block gutters. This can cause water to back up under the shingles which can lead to severe damage. Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to water seeping into the roof structure, causing a roofing emergency.
Assess Roof Flashing Conditions
There are many
types of roof flashing including: counter flashing, chimney flashing, step flashing, headwall or apron flashing, valley flashing, gutter apron flashing, and more.
Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights should always be intact. Ice buildup can often push under or distort flashing, leading to
roof leaks, so during your inspection, look for any lifts, rust, or gaps where water might seep through to cause a
leaky roof. When in doubt, call the
roof emergency team at Master Roof for your
peace of mind.
Check for Dented Roof Shingles or Hail Damage
Hail can cause dents or small fractures in shingles that might not be immediately noticeable. Over time, these can lead to leaks. It is best practice to do routine inspections of your
roof shingles for hail damage.
Inspect the Attic for Moisture and Water Spots
Go into your attic and look for any signs of water intrusion or moisture. Wet or dark spots on the wood or insulation are red flags for damage.
Check your Ceiling and Walls
Look for stains, peeling paint, or bubbled wallpaper which could indicate leaks. Unfortunately, water damage inside your home might not be visible until significant damage has occurred.
Steps to Take if You Find Roof Damage After a Storm
Immediate Actions
If you notice an active leak, place containers underneath to catch water and minimize damage. For minor leaks, you can put up a temporary patch with roofing cement until a professional roofing expert can arrive.
For critical damage, such as large holes or widespread shingle loss, consider
emergency repairs to prevent further damage. Contact a
roofing service that offers
emergency repairs as soon as possible.
Obtain a Professional Roof Assessment
If you notice an active leak, place containers underneath to catch water and minimize damage. For minor leaks, you can put up a temporary patch with roofing cement until a professional roofing expert can arrive. For critical damage, such as large holes or widespread shingle loss, consider emergency repairs to prevent further damage. After a thorough inspection, they will let you know if a complete roof replacement is needed.
Insurance Documentation
Document all damage with photos or videos. This will be crucial if you need to file an insurance claim. Check your homeowners' insurance policy for what's covered regarding storm damage. Your insurance company will rely heavily on objective evidence on pictures and video damage of actual roof damage.
Master Roof can help provide emergency roof repair services
After a winter storm in Massachusetts, a timely inspection of your roof can save you from extensive repairs down the line. Look for the signs mentioned above, and when in doubt, seek professional help. At Master Roof, we have the experience and technology to assess roof damage during storms in Massachusetts with accuracy and precision.
Call Master Roof or emergency roofing services today! We provide prompt and high-quality repair of roof leaks and other problems.
