Following a storm or bad weather, it's important that you thoroughly inspect your roof for storm damage. By doing this, you could save yourself a fortune in the long term and avoid huge bills that result from minor repairs and lead to a whole replacement down the road.
Identifying storm damage to your roofing in Maryland can be tricky, so we have made a checklist for you to follow after heavy rainfall, high winds, or storms to assess if your roof is in good condition.
1. Inspect Your Roof
Once you have followed storm safety and the rain or snow has completely passed, it's time to identify any signs of damage. You're looking for anything that strikes you as out of place and any signs of wear and tear. Look for the following warning signs in your Maryland roofing, including:
• Misplaced tiles
• Curled shingles
• Gaps or holes in the surface
If you think you might need to claim insurance, it's essential to take plenty of photos and note anything you see. It is also important to contact a professional roofing company in Maryland to get their opinion on which signs to look out for.
2. Check Your Home's Attachments
Anything that is “attached” to your home must also be examined, whether these may be:
• Windows
• Gutters
• Flashing
• Vents
These are usually easy to spot, as windows might be broken or have smashed glass, and vents and gutters might be dented or displaced.
It's important to check your gutters regularly since a congested gutter can weigh the whole system down, cause mold growth, and damage your roof.
3. Remove Storm Damage
After a storm, you might have debris lying around your yard. This should be removed to prevent further damage. While you're there, you should check your entire property for any other signs of damage.
Be sure to take photos of any fallen branches, damage to your fence or decking. Even take photos of your outdoor furniture if it seems damaged.
4. Water Check Your Roof
It's easy to investigate your roof and think all is well. However, you should also check inside your home for any new leaks, spots of water, dampness, or even mold.
You might notice these more prominently in the attic. Take a flashlight to make sure you haven't missed anything important. Be sure to note anything you see, as this makes it easier for roofing companies in Maryland to deal with.
5. Seek Advice
Now you have gathered all your photos, documents, and notes, it's time to seek professional advice from roofing contractors in Maryland. A Maryland roofing company can give you a quote. They can also advise on what your next steps are concerning roof repairs. It's important to get several quotes from the best roofing companies in Maryland to show your insurance.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company
If your roof has been damaged, be sure to file a claim with your insurance company straight away. If this claim is successful, your insurer will pay for all repairs or a roof replacement by a local roofing company in MD.
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Bottom Line
As you can see, handling storm damage is not difficult and leads to long-term savings. However, most people ignore it and end up paying out of pocket for expensive repairs.
That's why we recommend investigating storm damage as soon as the storm passes. Keep our guide in mind throughout the process and bring in roofing companies in MD to help file your claim as soon as possible!