In the wake of Hurricane Irma, thankfully a tropical storm by the time it hit metro Atlanta, countless area homeowners suffered damage to their roofs, though many of them may not know it yet. Here's how to make sure that any leaks in your home don't turn into much larger and more expensive problems and what steps to take to protect yourself from future storms.
Do a Visual Check
As soon as possible, access your attic and check the ceilings and drywall throughout your home (including closets) for any signs of water leaks-streaks, wet spots, drips or puddling. If your shingles are damaged or not installed properly, they are compromising your home by letting water below your roof deck and into your attic. As the water sits and seeps into the ceiling, it causes the brown ceiling stain you may recognize as the outline of a small puddle. Also be sure to check around your fireplace for any signs of water.
Outside your home, walk the perimeter to check for any sign of roof damage, including shingles that may have blown off or that look loose, as well as any displaced flashing around your chimney or damage to the chimney itself.
Contact the Professionals
If your investigation shows any sign that your roof has been compromised by Irma's strong winds and heavy rain, please call a professional immediately for a thorough examination of your roof. We offer a free roof analysis to assess the extent of the damage and recommend repairs, and can help you communicate with your insurance company.
Beware of Storm Chasers
In addition to fallen limbs and power outages, storms can also bring predatory businesses to your home. Storm chasers are roofers-often unlicensed, unbonded and uninsured-who are looking for a quick buck from anxious and vulnerable homeowners. As a rule, it's a bad idea to work with a business that shows up at your door, uninvited. Instead, it's best to use only known, reputable roofing companies to work on your home.
Protect Your Shingles for the Future
Cutting down trees and trimming branches near your roof will help eliminate the proximity of shingle-damaging material near your home. But it can also limit shady spots on your roof that can encourage the growth of algae and moss, which can compromise the integrity of your shingles.
Keep Gutters Clear
If you can't remember the last time you removed debris from your gutters and downspouts, it's time to schedule a cleanup. Neglecting gutters can cause water to back up, soaking into eaves and other part of your roof and home. This inability to drain properly can eventually lead to a roof leak and can perpetuate water damage. If gutter screens and covers aren't enough to keep debris out, routine gutter cleaning and repair can keep your home protected from water damage.
Being able to recognize any of these early signs empowers you to stop storm damage from becoming a big problem. Contact Findlay Roofing for a free roof analysis today.
