Steps to Take When your Twin Cities Roof Suffers Storm Damage
The northern Midwest has some truly unpredictable weather patterns and the Twin Cities are no exception to that rule. From dangerously cold temperatures often sinking below 0 degrees Fahrenheit and excessive snow accumulations in the winter to severe thunderstorms and tornadoes in the spring and summer, severe weather in the Twin Cities can wreak havoc on your home, particularly your roof.
Types of Storm Damage in the Twin Cities
With all of the variable weather patterns the Twin Cities experience throughout the year, the damages caused to local roofs are also varied. Each season comes with its own risks to your roof depending on how severe the weather is that year.
Ice Dams
Ice dams are caused by the freezing and melting of accumulated snow and ice on the roof. The form at the edges of the roof preventing meltwater from running off and can cause damage to shingles and gutters as well as interior leaks.
Snow Accumulation
Snow is heavy! Even light and fluffy snow can weigh up to 3 pounds per square foot when it accumulates. Wetter, heavier snow and ice can weigh up to 21 pounds per square foot! Our roofs are not made to withstand that kind of weight, and excess snow accumulations can cause roofs to collapse. Snow and ice accumulation can also lead to ice dams when they begin to melt.
Freezing Rain
Freezing rain can cause a built up layer of ice which will damage the shingles on its own, but can also weigh down the roof and potentially lead to ice damming.
Hail Damage
Hail damages roofs through impact. When hail hits the roof it can cause cracks, dings, and divots depending on the roof material and size of the hail. Especially large hail stones can even punch holes in the roof!
Wind Damage
Wind damages roofs by pushing up under loose areas like corners, edges, and ridgelines. This causes curling and lifting of the roofing material. Strong winds can also cause debris like tree branches to fall on the roof resulting in tears and punctures.
Signs of Storm Damage to Roofs
Severe weather will leave tell-tale signs of storm damage on your Twin Cities roof. If you notice any of these signs of damage to your roof, it might be time to call in a professional for an inspection.
- Missing Shingles
- Loose Shingles
- Granule Loss
- Granules in Downspout
- Loose Debris
- Signs of Hail Damage
- Broken Gutters, Soffit, and Fascia
- Visible Ice Dam
- Water Infiltration from Unknown Sources
- Musty Smells or Mold in Attic Space
Storm Damage Restoration Process
Inspect Your Property
The first step in the storm damage restoration process is to take a quick, self-catalogue of the damage. Look for the previously listed signs of damage after a storm so you’ll know when it’s time to call in help.
Call Your Roofing Contractor
Your certified Twin Cities roofing contractor will perform an inspection on your home. They will assess the damage and help you decide whether your roof needs repaired, replaced, and whether you should file a claim with your insurance company.
Contact Homeowners Insurance
Once you’ve confirmed storm damage to your roof, you’ll want to contact your insurance company right away. They may use the inspection and photos from your contractor or they may send out an adjuster to do their own inspection. Your roofing contractor will be able to work directly with your adjuster to ensure you’re being properly compensated for the damage to your roof according to your policy.
Hire Qualified Twin Cities Roofing Contractor
When you hire a roofing contractor in the Twin Cities to repair the storm damage to your roof, you want to know that you’re working with someone you can trust. Make sure your contractor is licensed and insured, has good reviews, and don’t be afraid to ask for referrals! Happy customers talk, so referrals and reviews are a sure sign that you’ll be receiving quality work and service.