Living in Huntington, WV, we’re no strangers to severe weather. From heavy rains and strong winds to hailstorms and even occasional snowstorms, the unpredictable climate can wreak havoc on your home—especially your roof. After a storm hits, your roof is often the first line of defense that takes the brunt of the damage.
Dealing with roof storm damage can feel overwhelming, but knowing the right steps to take can save you time, money, and stress. In this guide, we’ll provide roof storm damage tips to help you handle the situation like a pro. Whether it’s assessing damage, filing insurance claims, or finding a reliable roofing contractor, we’ve got you covered with locally relevant advice for Huntington homeowners.
Prioritize Safety First
The aftermath of a storm can leave your property in a dangerous state. Broken shingles, fallen branches, and even structural damage can pose risks to you and your family. Before inspecting your roof, ensure the area is safe.
Safety tips for Huntington homeowners:
- Avoid climbing onto the roof yourself, as storm damage can weaken its structure and increase the risk of falls.
- Watch out for loose power lines, debris, or standing water near your home.
- If there’s severe structural damage, stay out of your home until a professional has inspected it.
Local Insight: Heavy storms in Huntington often bring down tree limbs. Check your yard for fallen branches that may have struck your roof.
Conduct a Visual Inspection from the Ground
Once it’s safe, perform a preliminary inspection from the ground. While you won’t catch everything, this step can help you quickly identify obvious signs of damage.
Here’s what to look for:
- Missing or cracked shingles: These are common after high winds and hail.
- Dented metal flashing: Storms often damage flashing around vents, chimneys, and skylights, leading to leaks.
- Granules in gutters: If you notice black or gray granules in your gutters, it’s a sign your shingles have been damaged.
- Sagging areas or structural issues: These indicate severe damage that needs immediate attention.
Pro Tip for Huntington Residents: After storms, the high winds and rain we experience often dislodge roofing materials. Look for shingles in your yard as a clear indicator of roof damage.
Document the Damage
Before making any repairs, take detailed photos and videos of the storm damage. This step is critical for filing an insurance claim. Be sure to capture:
- Roof damage (missing shingles, dents, or holes).
- Damage to gutters, flashing, and chimneys.
- Any debris, such as tree limbs, that may have caused damage.
- Water stains or leaks inside your home caused by the roof damage.
Local Tip: In Huntington, storms can cause extensive tree damage. If a branch hit your roof, document the tree’s condition as part of your evidence for the insurance claim.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If your roof has been damaged by a storm, your homeowners’ insurance policy may cover the repairs or replacement. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to start the claims process.
Here’s how to navigate the process:
- Provide your insurance company with the photos and videos you took as evidence.
- Make a detailed list of damaged areas and include any receipts for emergency repairs (like tarping the roof to prevent further water damage).
- Ask your insurance adjuster if they need to inspect the property and schedule a time for the visit.
Pro Tip: Working with a local roofing contractor in Huntington who has experience handling insurance claims can make this process much smoother. They can provide the necessary documentation and even communicate with your insurer on your behalf.
Prevent Further Damage with Temporary Repairs
While waiting for a roofing contractor or insurance adjuster, it’s important to prevent further damage to your home. Simple temporary fixes can make a big difference:
- Use a tarp to cover exposed areas of the roof and stop water from entering your home.
- Clear gutters of debris to ensure proper drainage during subsequent rainfalls.
- Place buckets or containers under interior leaks to minimize water damage inside your home.
Local Insight: In Huntington, storms can sometimes come in clusters. Protecting your roof with temporary measures ensures your home is ready if another storm hits before permanent repairs are made.
Hire a Trusted Local Roofing Contractor
After a storm, finding the right contractor is one of the most important steps. Unfortunately, some homeowners fall victim to out-of-town “storm chasers” who show up after severe weather, offering quick fixes and disappearing once the work is done.
When hiring a contractor in Huntington, look for these qualities:
- Local expertise: A contractor familiar with Huntington’s weather conditions will know how to repair your roof to withstand future storms.
- Licensed and insured: Always verify that the contractor is fully licensed and carries insurance.
- Strong reputation: Look for reviews from local homeowners to ensure the contractor has a proven track record of quality work.
- Assistance with insurance claims: A good contractor will help you navigate the insurance process and provide the necessary documentation.
Why Choose Maycon Construction Services?
As a locally owned and operated company, Maycon Construction Services specializes in storm damage repairs for Huntington homeowners. We understand the unique challenges of our area’s weather and offer expert solutions to restore your roof’s integrity.
Invest in Preventive Measures for the Future
Once your roof has been repaired or replaced, take steps to minimize future storm damage. While you can’t control the weather, you can make your roof more resilient.
Preventive Tips:
- Schedule regular roof inspections: A professional inspection can identify weak spots and repair them before the next storm.
- Trim overhanging branches: Reduce the risk of falling branches by keeping nearby trees well-maintained.
- Upgrade to impact-resistant materials: Consider Class 4 shingles or metal roofing for enhanced durability during storms.
- Maintain gutters and drainage systems: Clear gutters regularly to prevent water pooling on your roof during heavy rains.
Pro Tip for WV Homeowners: In areas like Huntington, where storms are common, investing in impact-resistant shingles can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.
Why Regular Roof Inspections After Storms Are Crucial
Even if you don’t notice visible damage, your roof may still have hidden issues after a storm. Small cracks, dents, or leaks can worsen over time, leading to costly repairs. Scheduling a professional inspection after severe weather ensures your roof remains in top condition.
Local Insight: Huntington experiences a mix of heavy rains, hail, and high winds that can cause cumulative damage to your roof. Regular inspections catch these issues early, extending the lifespan of your roof and saving you money.
Final Thoughts
Storm damage to your roof can be stressful, but knowing how to handle it makes all the difference. By following these roof storm damage tips, you can protect your home, save money, and ensure your roof is ready for the next storm.
At Maycon Construction Services, we specialize in helping Huntington homeowners recover from storm damage quickly and efficiently. From temporary fixes to full roof replacements, our team is here to provide trusted, reliable service when you need it most.
Contact us today for a free roof inspection and let us restore your peace of mind after the storm!
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