Checking Your Roof After a Dayton Storm
Severe storms are part of life in southwest Ohio from spring through fall. Here's how to check for roof damage without putting yourself at risk.
Request a rooferStay on the ground
Never climb onto a roof after a storm. Shingles may be loose, wet or brittle, and hidden damage can make a roof weaker than it looks. Use binoculars or look from an upstairs window.
What to look for outside
Missing shingles or exposed dark patches, shingle pieces in the yard, bent or missing flashing, dented gutters and downspouts, damaged vents, and branches resting on the roof.
What to look for inside
New stains on ceilings, especially on the top floor, damp spots around chimneys and skylights, and, if you can safely look, wet insulation or daylight in the attic.
Document everything
Take dated photos of damage and anything that blew off. Keep receipts for tarps or emergency repairs. Your insurer may ask for them.
Watch for storm chasers
After big storms, out-of-town crews sometimes go door to door. Take your time, ask for a written quote and local references, and don't sign anything that hands over your insurance claim.
Next steps
See storm and hail damage, or send a request with photos and a description of what you've found.
When to get a roofer out
If you see missing shingles, water inside, damage to flashing or a lot of granules washed into the gutters, it's worth having a roofer inspect the roof soon. Small wind damage left alone can become a leak in the next storm.
Protect the inside
If water is coming in, move furniture and electronics, put down towels and buckets, and keep people away from any ceiling that sags. Turn off power to a light fixture that's dripping.
More roofing guides
Roof trouble in the Dayton area?
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