No one is ever prepared for the mess a tornado can cause, but when your roof is crushed by a storm, it becomes very clear how important saving the roof damage is. In this easy-to-follow homeowner’s guide, we’ll explore important steps that will help you to take control of a storm damage roof repair like an expert.
If you’re not a DIY person then don’t worry, there are always options for skilled people. Reach out right away. However, before getting on into how to carry out a storm damage roof repair, take a good view of what should be done. From the estimate of the damage to the repairs that will be completed, your house will be back to its original condition in no time.
1. Safety First
To begin with, prioritize safety as you undertake any other roof repair work. Damage occurs on a roof due to a storm, and this is the factor that leads “a house” into a dangerous situation. Put on an apt PPE, like a hard hat, gloves, goggles, work boots, and the other protective gear required for this task. Make sure to look for lines hanging, branches falling, or other obstacles around your house. Make sure that you clearly label the platform and provide necessary safety measures for the roof access.
2. Examine the Level of Destruction
From the ground, pay attention to the visible signs of damage, like fallen, sliding, or displaced shingles, damaged or completely detached flashing, and closed, sagging areas. Give special attention to any parts of the roof that have been torn off by branches or hail. This should include blown-away shingles, punctured or dented roofs, or missing flashing. If a lot of the damage has been done, or if you are not sure how critical the case is, do not hesitate to call a specialist in roofing as he may know exactly what needs to be done.
3. Record the Parts
Utilize your digital camera or a mobile phone to take high-quality photos of the damaged spots. The photo should comprise a close-up view as well as a full-angle shot to illustrate the condition of the roof overall. Have your records with the date, time, and arrival of the storms, and also the details of the correspondence with your insurance company.
4. Notify Your Insurance Provider
Now that you’ve assessed the damage and documented it, it’s time to get in touch with your insurance provider. Call your insurance agent or carrier company and let them know of the storm damage. Present them with all the printed records and photographs of the tour gathered. Get acquainted with your insurance coverage to figure out the limits and the deductibles related to storm-damage home repairs beforehand.
5. Permanent Repairs
Once you’ve taken immediate action and communicated with your insurance company, it’s time to proceed with permanent roof repairs. A knowledgeable professional contractor will also likely check the present state of your roof and offer you the best approaches to better durability in the long run. Replace damaged shingles with new ones that will suit your roof. Address structural damage, to assure the safety of your shelter and the surrounding area as well.