As Bay Area residents, we’re no strangers to wild weather. From heavy rains and high winds sweeping off the bay to the occasional earthquake rumble, our homes take a beating. And one of the most vulnerable parts of any house during a storm is the roof.
If you suspect your roof has been damaged after a recent storm, it’s crucial to act fast. Waiting too long to repair storm damage can lead to much bigger (and costlier) problems down the line, like leaks, mold, structural damage, and more. But don’t panic – here’s what Bay Area homeowners need to know about getting emergency roof repairs after a major storm hits.
Assess the Damage
Assess the Damage, But Stay Safe Once the storm has passed and it’s safe to go outside, do a visual assessment of your roof from the ground. Look for obvious signs of damage like:
- Missing, cracked, or broken shingles or tiles
- Dents on asphalt shingles
- Cracked or damaged flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys
- Sagging or uneven roof lines
- Debris from trees on the roof
If you see damage, or you suspect there could be problems not visible from below, call a local professional roofing contractor to do a thorough inspection. Never attempt to climb on the roof yourself, especially after a storm when it could be slippery or unstable. Falls from roofs are one of the leading causes of homeowner injuries.
Document Everything
Take Photos and Document Everything If you identify storm damage to your roof, document it thoroughly with photos and written notes. This documentation will be essential for insurance claims. Take wide shots of your entire roof and property, as well as close-up images of the specific damage.
Write down key details like:
- When the storm occurred
- What type of damage you see (missing shingles, cracks, debris, etc.)
- The size and location of the damaged areas
- Any leaks, wet spots, or water damage inside the house
The more specific documentation you have, the smoother the insurance claim process will go. It will also help your roofing contractor provide a more accurate assessment and estimate for the repairs needed.
Get Professional Roofing Help
Contact a Trusted Local Roofing Company Once you’ve documented the damage, contact a reputable local roofing contractor who has experience with storm damage and emergency roof repairs. Many Bay Area roofing companies, including ours, offer 24/7 emergency service and will prioritize urgent repairs after major storms.
When contacting roofers, ask key questions like:
- Are you licensed and insured?
- How long have you been in business?
- Do you specialize in storm damage repairs?
- What is your process for repairs and working with insurance companies?
- Can you provide a detailed written estimate?
Choose a contractor you feel you can trust, with a proven track record of quality workmanship and good customer service. Be cautious of storm chasers – out-of-town roofers who canvass neighborhoods after storms looking for work. They often do shoddy work and then disappear, leaving homeowners high and dry.
Work With Your Insurance Company
If your roof damage is extensive, you’ll want to file an insurance claim. Call your agent right away to start the claims process. They will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage in person.
Having your roofing contractor meet with the adjuster can be very helpful. They can point out damage the adjuster might otherwise miss and make sure the full scope of work needed is included in your claim. They can also help make sure your claim isn’t unfairly denied and that you get the full compensation you’re entitled to.
Most Bay Area homeowners insurance policies will cover roof repairs for damage caused by storms, minus your deductible. However, some policies have exclusions for certain perils, or may limit coverage on older roofs. Review your policy carefully so you know what to expect.
Get Professional Roof Repairs
Choose Quality Repairs for Lasting Protection When it’s time to have your roof repaired, don’t skimp on quality to save a few bucks. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Improper repairs will likely fail quickly, leading to more leaks and damage. It’s worth investing in quality work that will protect your home for the long run.
Make sure your roofing contractor:
- Only uses high-quality roofing products rated for high winds and heavy rains common in the Bay Area climate
- Follows the manufacturer’s installation requirements to a T
- Ensures the repairs meet all current California building codes and local requirements
- Offers a robust workmanship warranty to protect your investment
With proper repairs done by an experienced local contractor, your Bay Area roof will be back in shape and ready to stand up to many more storms. You’ll gain priceless peace of mind, knowing your home is protected.
Don’t let roof storm damage linger
Don’t let roof storm damage linger – problems will only get worse, and more expensive to fix, the longer you wait. Water infiltration from a damaged roof can quickly lead to major issues like rot, mold, damaged insulation, and even structural integrity problems. A small leak can turn into a big disaster faster than you might think.
That’s why it’s so important to have your roof inspected right away after a major storm. Even damage that looks minor from the ground could be more serious upon closer inspection. An experienced roofing professional can spot problems you might miss and make expert repairs to prevent bigger headaches down the road.
If your Bay Area home has been hit by severe weather, contact Elm Roofing Contractors for an inspection and emergency repair estimate. With more than X years of experience serving local homeowners, we’ve seen it all when it comes to storm damage. Our highly skilled team can quickly assess the repairs needed and get the work done with top-quality craftsmanship. We use only the best roofing materials, rated for the heavy rains and high winds that Bay Area roofs must withstand.