21 Mar 3 Signs It’s Time to Call a Roofer After the Storm Has Passed

According to the National Weather Service, thunderstorm season in Florida spans approximately May through October — which is followed shortly by hurricane season merely one month later. In other words, Florida is battered by rain and high winds nearly all year round, with the spring season marking the onset of volatile — and possibly damaging — weather patterns.

That being said, you may be hesitant to call in your local roofing professionals once the immediate storm has passed. After all, how do you know when it’s necessary to do so?

Don’t worry. If you’ve been left wondering whether or not to dial us in, we particularly recommend you take action when…

#1 — When There’s Visible Damage

The first one is the obvious one: If you spot visible damage to your roof — be it the result of wind, hail, or something else — it’s time to pick up the phone.

Hail, in particular, is apt to punch holes in traditional shingles, or otherwise dent metal roofing materials. “In addition, hail exposure also accelerates the aging and weathering of roofs,” as reported by the Insurance Information Institute (III).

Otherwise, slipped shingles, fallen trees, and even a large mass of debris may all merit the attention of expert roofing professionals. And if you’re not sure what you are looking at, you may also want to pull out a pair of binoculars.

Do not, however, step onto the roof itself until after you’ve gotten a professional opinion.

#2 — When You Spot Attic Leaks

“During less severe storms, sudden, sharp gusts of wind can lift and curl shingles,” Owens Corning explains. “When shingles are installed, they’re purposefully overlapped to create a water-tight seal, and this lifting and curling can break this seal, potentially leaving your roof vulnerable to damage from wind-driven rain.”

Consequently, moisture and heavier rain flow may slide their way inside, thereby causing mold growth, wood rot, and more.

After a storm, we recommend you enter your attic and inspect your ceiling for potential signs of water stains. Your nose knows too, of course, so be sure to trust yourself when you pick up a mildewy scent. It’s likely your roof has taken damage and permitted moisture intrusion.

This may signal damage to the roof underlayment or flashing, in specific.

#3 — When It’s Time for Routine Maintenance

If all seems safe and clear, we urge you to consider when the last time was you underwent a routine inspection and maintenance appointment.

Particularly if it’s been over a year, you’ll want to call in the professionals so that you don’t risk further damage during the next stormy onslaught. Remember: you should be scheduling routine maintenance on an annual basis, at minimum.

And if you’re not sure who to call in any of the aforementioned situations, Universal Roof & Contracting has you covered!

We’ve provided professional roofing services as well as FREE inspections to both Jacksonville and Central Florida for over 28 years, and we want to ensure you’re confident come time for the storms to come back around. To learn more or schedule an appointment with our team, contact us today by calling 855-ROOF-HELP!