7 Signs Your Roof May Have Storm Damage
The clearest signs of storm damage are missing or creased shingles, dented metal, heavy granule loss and new leaks. You can check for most of them from the ground. Please stay off the roof, especially just after a storm.
1. Missing or displaced shingles
Look for bare patches, or shingles that look out of line. Pieces of shingle in the yard are a giveaway. Even a few missing shingles can expose the roof to water.
2. Creased or lifted shingles
Wind can lift a shingle and fold it back without tearing it off. It may settle back down and look fine from far away, but the crease breaks the seal and weakens the shingle. This is one of the most commonly missed kinds of wind damage.
3. Heavy granule loss
Some granule loss is normal as a roof ages. A sudden pile in your gutters or at the bottom of downspouts after a storm is worth checking, since hail can knock granules loose.
4. Dents in metal parts
Hail leaves marks on soft metal. Check gutters, downspouts, vents and any metal flashing you can see. If they're dented, the shingles may have taken a hit too.
5. Damaged flashing
Flashing seals the joints around chimneys, vents and walls. If you can see it bent, lifted or pulled away, water can get in at that point.
6. New water stains or leaks
Check ceilings, the tops of walls and the attic if it's safe to do so. A new stain or a damp spot in the insulation after a storm suggests water is getting through.
7. Damage around your property
Downed branches, a damaged fence or dented siding show how strong the storm was. If your neighbors are having roofs inspected, it's worth checking yours too.
What to do if you find damage
- Take dated photos from the ground
- Protect belongings from any active leak
- Don't sign anything under pressure from door-to-door crews
- Schedule an inspection with a local, registered contractor
- Contact your insurer promptly if you plan to file a claim
Frequently asked questions
Can storm damage show up later?
Yes. A creased shingle or bruised spot may not leak right away, and the problem can show up months later. That's why an inspection soon after a major storm is useful.
Is it safe to climb up and look?
We don't recommend it. Roofs can be slippery and storm-damaged areas can be weak. Check from the ground and leave the roof to a professional.
Related pages
Roofing Certifications & Manufacturer Credentials
You shouldn't have to take our word for it. Each of these can be checked with the organization that issued it.
GAF Certified Plus™ Contractor
GAF lists Bravo Roofing LLC in its contractor directory as a Certified Plus™ roofing contractor.
View our GAF profileBBB A+ Accredited Business
Bravo Roofing LLC has been a BBB Accredited Business since February 2023 and holds an A+ rating.
View our BBB profileRegistered Idaho Contractor
Idaho contractor registration RCE-59181. You can look up any contractor's registration through the Idaho Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses.
Idaho contractor lookupManufacturer Warranty Options
As a GAF Certified Plus™ contractor, Bravo Roofing can offer GAF's System Plus and Silver Pledge™ limited warranties on qualifying GAF roofing systems. Coverage and length depend on the products installed and the warranty terms, so we put the exact warranty for your roof in writing with your estimate.