Storms in Western Washington can bring strong winds, heavy rain, and falling branches that may damage your roof. While some damage is easy to spot, other problems can be difficult to see from the ground.
Knowing what to do after a storm can help you identify potential problems early, document the condition of your property, and prevent additional damage.
If you own a home in Tacoma or the surrounding Pierce County area, here are the steps you should take if you suspect your roof has been damaged by a storm.
1. Check Your Property From the Ground
After the storm has passed and conditions are safe, walk around your property and look for visible signs of damage.
You may notice:
- Missing or displaced shingles
- Shingles or roofing materials on the ground
- Damaged ridge cap shingles
- Fallen tree branches
- Damaged gutters or downspouts
- Debris on the roof
- Damage around vents or other roof penetrations
You do not need to climb onto the roof to perform this initial check.
In fact, walking on a potentially damaged or wet roof can be dangerous. A professional roofing contractor can perform a closer inspection safely.
2. Check Inside Your Home for Water Intrusion
Roof damage does not always create an immediate or obvious leak.
Check ceilings, walls, and attic areas for signs of moisture after severe weather.
Common warning signs include:
- Water stains on ceilings
- Damp drywall
- Peeling or bubbling paint
- Wet attic insulation
- Moisture around vents
- Discoloration on roof decking
- Active dripping or water intrusion
If you discover water entering your home, addressing the source quickly can help prevent additional damage to insulation, drywall, flooring, and other materials.
3. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Some types of storm damage are difficult to identify from the ground.
Wind can lift, loosen, crease, or remove shingles. Flashing and other roofing components may also be affected.
A professional roof inspection can help determine the location and extent of visible damage.
At HG Contractors LLC, we inspect the roofing system and document our findings so homeowners have a clearer understanding of the condition of their property.
4. Document the Damage
Good documentation can be important after a storm.
Take photographs or videos of visible damage when it is safe to do so. Keep records of when the storm occurred and when you first noticed problems.
A professional contractor may also provide photographs showing roof conditions that cannot be safely documented from the ground.
If you decide to contact your insurance company, this documentation can help provide a record of the property’s condition following the event.
5. Prevent Additional Damage When Necessary
If storm damage has created an opening that allows water to enter the home, temporary protection may be necessary.
Depending on the situation, this could include emergency tarping or other temporary measures designed to protect the exposed area until permanent repairs can be completed.
Temporary protection is not the same as a permanent roof repair. Its purpose is to reduce the possibility of additional damage while the roof is being evaluated.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company if You Believe the Damage May Be Covered
If you believe your roof was damaged by a covered storm event, review your homeowners insurance policy and contact your insurance carrier.
Coverage varies by policy, so homeowners should confirm their specific coverage, deductible, limitations, and claim requirements directly with their insurance company.
Your insurance carrier may assign an adjuster to inspect the property and determine what damage is covered under your policy.
A roofing contractor and an insurance adjuster have different roles. The contractor evaluates the property and determines what work may be necessary, while the insurance carrier makes coverage decisions under the policy.
7. Understand the Difference Between Storm Damage and Normal Wear
Not every roofing problem is caused by a storm.
Roofs naturally deteriorate over time due to age, weather exposure, previous installation conditions, and other factors.
This distinction is particularly important when an insurance claim is involved.
A professional inspection can help document visible conditions, but the insurance carrier ultimately determines whether particular damage is covered under your policy.
Can a Storm-Damaged Roof Be Repaired?
Sometimes.
If storm damage is limited to a specific area and the existing roofing system remains in suitable condition, a repair may be possible.
Other situations can be more complicated.
The age and condition of the shingles, location of the damage, availability of compatible materials, condition of surrounding roofing components, and ability to complete a proper repair can all affect the recommended scope of work.
That is why the roof should be evaluated based on its actual condition rather than assuming every storm requires a complete roof replacement.
What If You Already Have an Insurance Claim?
If you have already filed a claim, HG Contractors LLC can inspect the property and provide documentation related to the roofing work.
Depending on the project, this may include photographs, measurements, estimates, and documentation of conditions discovered during the roofing process.
If additional conditions are discovered after work begins, they can also be documented for review.
The insurance company remains responsible for determining what is covered under the homeowner’s policy.
Storm Damage Roof Inspections in Tacoma, WA
If your home has recently experienced strong winds, heavy rain, or other severe weather, don’t wait for a small roofing problem to become a larger one.
HG Contractors LLC provides professional roof inspections, roof repairs, and roof replacement services in Tacoma and surrounding communities.
We can inspect your roofing system, document visible damage, and explain the repair options based on what we find.
Suspect Storm Damage to Your Roof?
Contact HG Contractors LLC to schedule an inspection.
Call: (253) 754-4347
Serving Tacoma and surrounding communities in Pierce County, Washington.