Evy CoeA storm can cause havoc. Hail, heavy rain and strong winds can lead to power cuts, road closures and delayed transport. At best bad weather can be inconvenient and at worst it can be catastrophic.
Storms can also cause severe building damage. After extreme winds and rain it’s a good idea to check your roof as soon as possible. That way you will be aware of any damage and can fix it as soon as you can. If a damaged roof goes unnoticed and is left untreated, it will only get worse and cost you money.
Read on to find out 3 ways to spot storm damage on your roof before it’s too late.
1. Inspect your loft
One of the first things you should do after a storm is head up to your loft to check for leaks and water damage. You should have a look for puddles, drips and water marks on the ceilings and walls. Minor leaks can sometimes be hard to spot but it’s important to get them sorted before you get more bad weather. Otherwise, the problem can escalate and cost you more time and money.
2. Check the ground outside your home
Another way to check for storm damage is to have a look at the ground outside your home. If you find dislodged shingles or tiles it suggests that they’ve been blown off and now there are gaps on your roof. If this is all that it is, you’ll need to get the roofing replaced before your roof develops any leaks.
However, dislodged roofing materials can also indicate that something may have fallen on your roof. If this has happened it may have weakened the roofing structure and left your home unsafe to live in. Either way, if you find dislodged roofing materials you should get a professional to take a look at it as soon as possible.
3. Take a look at your roof
One of the most obvious things to do if you’re worried about roof damage is to get up there and check it yourself. Look for dislodged or missing materials, damage and any debris. If you find any of these things it’s worth getting a roofer to take a look.
However, you should only venture up to your roof if you can do so safely. If you have a roof that’s a significant height from the ground, you’re on your own or are not used to ladders, leave the job to a professional.
You also shouldn’t attempt to get onto your roof. You could easily lose your footing or cause even more damage. The purpose of going up to look at your roof is just to get a clearer idea of what damage may have been done, not to fix it yourself.
So now you should find it easier to work out if your roof has suffered any storm damage. Remember, if you spot any damage or just need someone to take a closer look, contact a professional roofer. They will be able to check your roof thoroughly and advise you on any work that needs doing.
Simon Pook
Emily Rivers
