Storm Damage: How To Spot It & When To Call It In
Maryland residents are no strangers to severe weather. From powerful thunderstorms and high winds to heavy snow and hail, our homes’ roofs take a beating throughout the year. At Thunder Bay Roofing, our experienced Edgewater roofing contractors Nick Perz and Steven Friedman have seen firsthand how weather events can impact residential roofs and commercial roofs across Edgewater and surrounding communities.
This comprehensive guide will help you identify potential storm damage and understand when it’s time to call in the professionals. You can also learn more about storm damage and how to spot it by calling our Edgewater roofing company at 410-956-7663.
Immediate Steps After a Storm
When severe weather passes through, it’s crucial to assess your property as soon as it’s safe. While some damage might be obvious from ground level, other issues require a closer inspection. Here’s what you should do first:
- Document Everything: Take photos and videos of any visible damage, including the date and time. This documentation can be invaluable for insurance claims.
- Check for Interior Signs: Before heading outside, look for water stains on your ceilings or walls, which could indicate roof damage.
- Survey the Ground: Walk around your property and note any shingle pieces, metal flashing, or other roofing materials that may have blown off during the storm.
Common Types of Storm Damage
Wind Damage
Strong winds can cause varying degrees of roof damage, from lifted shingles to complete tear-offs. Look for:
- Curled or lifted shingle edges
- Missing shingles or bare spots on the roof
- Damaged or missing flashing around chimneys and vents
- Granules collecting in rain gutters or at downspout exits
Hail Damage
Hail impacts can be particularly destructive to roofing materials. Signs of hail damage include:
- Circular marks or dents on shingles
- Cracked or broken shingles
- Exposed roof felt where granules have been knocked off
- Dented gutters, downspouts, or metal flashing
Water Damage
Water infiltration can lead to serious structural issues if not addressed promptly. Watch for:
- Dark spots or water stains on ceilings
- Mold or mildew growth in attic spaces
- Sagging sections of roof decking
- Wet insulation in the attic
Professional Inspection Checklist
At Thunder Bay Roofing, our team performs thorough inspections following these key areas:
Shingle Assessment
- Granule loss evaluation
- Check for proper shingle adhesion
- Inspect for cracks, tears, or missing pieces
- Evaluate age-related wear versus storm damage
Structural Inspection
- Examine roof decking for signs of weakness
- Check chimney and vent flashing integrity
- Assess gutter system functionality
- Evaluate ridge caps and hip shingles
Interior Evaluation
- Attic inspection for water penetration
- Check ventilation efficiency
- Document any visible water stains
- Assess insulation condition
When to Call Thunder Bay Roofing
While some minor issues might be visible from ground level, it’s important to have professional eyes on your roof after significant weather events. Here are situations that warrant immediate professional attention:
- You notice missing or damaged shingles
- There’s visible sagging in any area of the roof
- Interior water stains appear
- Your gutters are damaged or pulling away from the house
- You spot daylight through your roof boards
- There’s an unusual increase in energy bills
Insurance Claims Support
Our team at Thunder Bay Roofing understands the insurance claims process and can help document damage properly. Nick Perz and Steven Friedman have extensive experience working with insurance adjusters and can provide:
- Detailed damage reports
- Professional documentation
- Cost estimates for roof repairs
- Expert testimony if needed
Preventive Measures
To minimize storm damage, consider these preventive steps:
- Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual roof inspections to identify potential weaknesses before storms hit.
- Tree Management: Keep trees trimmed away from your roof to prevent damage during high winds.
- Gutter Care: Maintain clean, properly functioning gutters to ensure water drainage.
Why Choose Thunder Bay Roofing?
With years of experience serving Edgewater and surrounding Maryland communities, our team brings:
- Local expertise and understanding of Maryland weather patterns
- Certified and insured professionals
- Emergency response capability
- Comprehensive warranty options
- Transparent pricing and detailed estimates
Emergency Response Protocol
When severe weather strikes, our emergency response team is ready to help. We prioritize:
- Quick response times to prevent further damage
- Temporary protective measures when needed
- Thorough documentation for insurance purposes
- Clear communication throughout the repair process
Don’t wait until minor storm damage becomes a major problem. Contact Thunder Bay Roofing at 410-956-7663 for:
- Free storm damage inspections
- Professional repair estimates
- Insurance claim assistance
- Emergency repairs
- Preventive maintenance
Protect Your Roof From Further Damage, Call Today!
Our experienced team, led by Nick Perz and Steven Friedman, is ready to help protect your home or business from the effects of storm damage. We understand the unique challenges Maryland weather presents and have the skills to address any roofing concern.
Storm damage to your roof can be stressful, but having a reliable roofing partner makes all the difference. At Thunder Bay Roofing, we’re committed to providing top-quality service and peace of mind to our customers across Edgewater, Kensington, Lusby, Parkton, and beyond. Remember, the sooner you address storm damage, the better protected your property will be.
Ready to schedule your inspection? Call Thunder Bay Roofing at 410-956-7663. Our experienced professionals are standing by to help secure and protect your roof against Maryland’s challenging weather conditions.