When storms happen, the aftermath can leave homeowners devastated. Experts at Town and Country Roof Restoration understand the urgency and importance of tackling issues swiftly and safely. This guide walks you through a safe and effective process to assess and manage storm damage to your roof, from early inspections to professional roof repairs in Newcastle.
Whether you’re experiencing severe leaks or facing different roof damage conditions, you will be equipped with the proper knowledge to restore your home efficiently. Let’s get started!
After a severe storm passes, your first instinct may be to check your roof for damage. But remember that safety should always come first. Climbing onto your roof right away can be dangerous, especially if the structure is compromised or wet. That’s why the best approach is to begin your inspection from the ground. By surveying visible signs of damage, you can get a general idea of the impact without putting yourself at risk. Here's how you can effectively assess the condition of your roof while ensuring your safety.
The first step in any roof inspection is to maintain a safe distance. Climbing on your roof can be risky, especially if you lack the proper equipment and experience. Instead, use a pair of binoculars to get a closer look at your roof from the ground. This will allow you to spot potential issues without putting yourself in harm's way.
Your roof often bears the brunt of the impact, yet not all damage is immediately obvious. While large holes or fallen branches are easy to spot, subtle signs of trouble can lead to serious issues if left unchecked. Knowing what to search from the ground and inside your home can help you identify problems early and prevent further deterioration. Keep an eye out for the following signs of damage:
If you identify any potentially hazardous areas, such as fallen branches or loose roofing materials, it's important to cordon them off immediately. Use caution tape or temporary barriers to prevent anyone from accidentally entering these areas and getting injured. Here are some hazard examples:
Storm damage doesn’t always stay outside—sometimes the first sign of trouble appears inside your home. Even if your roof looks intact from the outside, water intrusion can quietly cause structural issues, promote mould growth, and damage insulation or ceilings. That’s why it's important to inspect your interior spaces as soon as it’s safe to do so. Here’s a guide on what to check and where to find potential issues.
Damp patches on ceilings and walls are an early indicator of leaks. These may appear as discoloured areas that are noticeably different from the rest of the surface. In poorly lit areas, use a torch to spot subtle changes in colour or texture. Pay attention to any changes in texture or colour on the ceiling. Damp patches often take on a yellowish or brownish hue as water seeps through the plaster or paint layer. You can also run your hands over the walls to feel for any unusual dampness. This can be telling in corners or near windows where water can easily infiltrate.
Sagging ceilings are a severe sign of water damage and require immediate attention. The weight of accumulated water can compromise the structural integrity of your ceiling, posing a risk of collapse. See if there are areas where the ceiling appears to droop or sag. This may be accompanied by visible water stains or bubbling paint. If you see a sagging ceiling, avoid the area and contact a professional immediately. Do not attempt to poke or prod the ceiling yourself, as this could lead to a sudden release of water or collapse.
Water stains are a common indicator of leaks and can provide clues about their origins. Check the corners of your ceilings, as water often travels along beams and collects in these areas. Stains here could indicate a roof leak or an issue with guttering. Don’t forget to inspect the interiors of built-in wardrobes, especially those located against external walls. Water stains here might suggest that water has penetrated through the walls or from the roof above.
A musty smell inside your home is a clear sign of moisture accumulation and potential mould growth. Walk through each room and sniff for any unusual musty odours. Pay attention to basements, attics, and storage areas where ventilation might be poor, and moisture can accumulate unnoticed. Also, ensure that your home's ventilation systems are working correctly. Poor ventilation can exacerbate musty smells and encourage mould growth.
Mould thrives in damp, dark environments and can pose serious health risks if left unchecked. Check for black, green, or white spots on walls, ceilings, and within cupboards. Mould often appears fuzzy or slimy and will spread quickly if conditions remain damp. And if you discover mould, take immediate action to dry out the area and prevent further growth. If the area is dry, use dehumidifiers and fans to reduce moisture levels, and consult a professional for safe mould remediation.
Take immediate steps to prevent the situation from getting worse, but only if it’s safe to do so. Temporary fixes can help reduce water intrusion and protect your home’s interior until professional repairs can be made. However, safety must be your top priority. Never attempt repairs during hazardous weather or if the roof structure seems unstable. Here are some steps you can take, provided conditions allow for safe execution.
One of the most effective temporary solutions to protect your home from further water damage is to cover exposed sections of your roof with tarps or heavy-duty plastic sheeting. Before attempting to cover any sections of your roof, evaluate the situation from the ground. Look for visibly damaged areas or missing shingles that are easily accessible. The following are other things to do:
Blocked gutters and downpipes can exacerbate roof damage, leading to water accumulation and potential leaks. Clearing these obstructions can help direct water away from vulnerable areas. From the ground, inspect gutters and downpipes for visible blockages caused by leaves, twigs, or other debris. If you can access the gutters, use gloves to remove debris gently. For downpipes, a plumber's snake or a high-pressure hose may be effective in dislodging stubborn clogs. Remember to check if the ladder is stable and placed on a dry, even surface. Have someone assist you by holding the ladder for added stability.
Water and electricity are a dangerous combination. If leaks are near electrical fixtures, take immediate steps to reduce risks. If water is leaking near electrical fixtures or outlets, turn off the power to the affected areas from the main circuit breaker. This will prevent potential electrical hazards until repairs can be made. Also, engaging with water-damaged electrical systems can result in serious injury or even electrocution.
When your roof suffers damage from a storm, documenting the damage thoroughly is crucial for insurance purposes. Accurate documentation not only aids in a smoother claims process but also ensures that you receive adequate compensation for the repairs needed. Follow these steps to ensure you cover all bases.
Begin by capturing comprehensive photographic evidence of the damage. This visual documentation will be instrumental when communicating with your insurance provider. Take a combination of wide shots to show the overall impact and close-ups to highlight specific damages. Ensure all photos are clear and well-lit.
In the aftermath of a storm, you may need to perform temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Document any temporary repairs you undertake, such as tarping a roof or boarding up windows. Take photos before, during, and after the repairs, and keep all receipts and invoices related to materials and labour. If you engage emergency services, such as water extraction or structural support, document these thoroughly. Keep contact information, service details, and invoices for any emergency services called upon.
Reach out to your insurer as soon as possible to report the damage. Provide them with the photographic evidence and a description of the damage. You also need to request guidance on the next steps in the claims process. Confirm what documentation they require and any specific protocols they expect you to follow. Wait for your insurer's approval before starting major repairs. Unauthorised repairs might not be covered if they fall outside the agreed terms. If an insurance adjuster needs to evaluate the damage, coordinate their visit and ensure they have access to all documented evidence you’ve collected.
After assessing your roof and making any safe, temporary fixes, the next step is to contact a professional roof repair specialist without delay. Storm damage can worsen quickly, especially with continued exposure to wind and rain, so timely intervention is essential to prevent further issues such as leaks, insulation damage, or structural weakening. Here are some considerations when selecting the right professional for the job.
The first step in addressing storm damage is to find a licenced roofer who specialises in storm damage repairs. Roofers with this specific experience will be familiar with the unique challenges that storms present, such as water intrusion, structural damage, and potential safety hazards.
In cases of severe damage or ongoing leaks, you may require the services of an emergency roofer. These professionals are available to address critical issues promptly, minimising the risk of further damage to your home. If you notice active leaks, structural damage, or suspect that your roof may collapse, contact an emergency roofer immediately. Delaying repairs in such situations can lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs. Remember that many emergency roofers offer round-the-clock services, ensuring that you can get help when you need it most, even outside of normal business hours.
In conclusion, storm-related roof damage requires swift, safe action. Start with a ground-level inspection, check indoors for water issues, and apply only safe temporary fixes. Document everything for insurance, then contact your insurer and a qualified roofer to start repairs. Acting quickly helps protect your home and speeds up recovery.
No job and no roof is too big for our team of roofing contractors. We have the experience, skills and equipment to make your roof look and function the way you’d like it to.
Whether you want to paint your roof or remove asbestos, we can help!
