Signs a Tampa Roof Needs Immediate Repair After Hurricane Ian

According to news outlets, Hurricane Ian made landfall in Fort Myers, FL, south of Tampa, at approximately 3:00 pm September 28th with sustained winds of 150 mph and a devastating storm surge of up to 12 feet. Although Ian didn’t directly hit the Tampa area, it caused damage to homes and businesses in the area. Recovering from Hurricane Ian will be a long road. To begin, homeowners can repair roof damage and Roof X can help.

A roofing system protects the home from extreme weather events like hail, snow, high winds, and torrential rains. However, an intense storm, like Hurricane Ian, sometimes proves too much for even the most well-maintained roof. After a powerful hurricane has passed, it is important to perform a visual inspection from the ground using binoculars and look for signs of roof damage. 

While some damage may be readily evident, spotting other damage may require a closer look by a professional roofer. Leaving even minor storm damage unresolved may cause structural issues, which often lead to expensive repairs. 

Homeowners may be unsure when to call a roofer for hurricane damage repairs. Here are some of the ways they can determine if a roof has hurricane damage and requires immediate repair:

Shingle damage

Powerful winds can loosen or blow off the shingles, leaving the roof susceptible to leaks. Call a roofing company immediately if you spot shingles scattered around the yard or driveway. Flying debris or broken tree branches falling on the roof's surface due to high winds and severe hail storms can crack, bend, break, or dent shingles or cause them to warp or buckle. Such shingles fail to do their job efficiently and expose the home to elements.

High wind

Powerful storms often bring strong winds, and hurricanes are no exception. As a Category 4 hurricane, Ian brought sustained winds up to 155 miles per hour. Winds such as these carry debris which is tossed around, causing additional damage. Debris such as branches, furniture, or building material is often an indication that the roof needs to be inspected for damage.

Leaks

A roof can spring a leak after a storm. A compromised roofing or drainage system allows water to seep into the home. Inspect the attic walls and ceiling for stains, discoloration, mold, mildew, water puddles on the floor, and other signs of moisture and water damage. Even a minor leak needs repair as it can grow over time and cause significant harm to the home’s interior if ignored.

Granule loss

During a storm, the protective granules on the old shingle roofs become more vulnerable to erosion. A significant amount of granules in the gutters or downspouts after a storm usually indicates that a roof replacement is imminent. A roofer can inspect and suggest the best roofing materials for the new roof.

Broken or clogged gutters

Gutters are a vital component of a roofing system that a homeowner should inspect following a storm. Check for clogs in the gutters and clean them as soon as possible to allow them to drain. Blocked gutters cause the water to overflow directly into the home foundation and erode it, risking the structural integrity. Also, examine the gutters for dents, damage, and loose fittings and attachments, and call an expert for repairs, if required.

Flashing damage

Post-storm, closely look at the flashing around roof valleys, chimneys, vents, and edges for damages. Flashing offers protection from water infiltration and is vulnerable during unfavorable weather. The roof needs immediate repairs if the flashing is broken, cracked, or missing to prevent water from seeping inside.

Identifying these signs of roof damage as early as possible and calling a professional roofer to carry out the required repairs on time can help homeowners save a considerable amount of money and provide better home protection.

Roof X Inc. offers commercial and residential roofing for customers in Brandon,  Pensacola, Tampa, and surrounding areas. We install and repair metal, tile, shingle, TPO, and more. Gutters, ventilation, and insulation are also available. Family-owned-and-operated

Call us today: Brandon  (813) 590-1124 | Pensacola (850) 669-5509