When severe weather strikes northern Alabama, your home’s roof often takes the brunt of the impact. At Hinkle Roofing, we understand how stressful storm damage can be for homeowners. By following these essential steps after storm damage occurs, you can protect your home’s roof and ensure a smoother repair process.
Ensure Your Family’s Safety First
Your first priority after any severe storm should be ensuring your family’s safety. Stay inside until the storm has completely passed and local authorities have given the all-clear. If you notice water entering your home through the ceiling, move valuable items to a dry area and use buckets to collect water. Avoid entering rooms with sagging ceilings, as they could collapse.
Document the Damage
Once it’s safe to do so, document all visible damage to your roof and home. Take clear photos and videos from multiple angles, being sure to capture both wide shots and close-ups of damaged areas. This documentation will be invaluable when filing an insurance claim. However, do not climb onto your roof – leave that to the professionals.
Take Immediate Action to Prevent Further Damage
When your roof is compromised, it’s crucial to prevent additional damage to your home’s interior. Cover broken windows and place tarps over damaged roof areas if it’s safe to do so. If you’re uncomfortable performing these temporary repairs, contact a professional roofing contractor like Hinkle Roofing – we provide emergency tarping services across northern Alabama.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the damage as soon as possible. Most policies require prompt reporting of storm damage. Have your policy number ready and provide the documentation you gathered. Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage and determine coverage for repairs.
Work With a Trusted Local Contractor
Choose an experienced, local roofing contractor to assess the damage and provide roof repair estimates. At Hinkle Roofing, we have extensive experience working with insurance companies and can help guide you through the claims process. We’ll perform a thorough inspection of your roof and provide detailed documentation of all storm-related damage.
Understanding Common Types of Storm Damage
Different types of storms can cause various forms of roof damage. High winds can lift or tear off shingles, exposing the underlying roof structure. Hail can create impact marks and compromise shingles’ protective granules. Falling trees or large branches can puncture the roof, requiring immediate attention. Our experienced team can identify all types of storm damage and recommend appropriate repairs.
The Repair Process
Once your insurance claim is approved, we can develop a comprehensive repair plan. At Hinkle Roofing, we handle everything from minor repairs to complete roof replacements, using high-quality materials and ensure all repairs meet local building codes and manufacturer specifications. Throughout the process, we maintain clear communication with both you and your insurance company.
Preventing Future Storm Damage
While you can’t control the weather, you can take steps to minimize future storm damage. Regular roof maintenance, including inspections and repairs of minor issues, can help your roof better withstand severe weather. Consider upgrading to impact-resistant shingles or other storm-resistant materials when it’s time to replace your roof.
At Hinkle Roofing, we’re here to help when storms damage your home. With decades of experience serving northern Alabama homeowners, we understand the unique challenges our region’s weather presents. contact Hinkle Roofing today at (205) 324-8545 or through our online form 24/7 for emergency storm damage assistance, and let our expert team help restore your home’s protection. Remember, acting quickly after storm damage occurs is crucial to preventing further damage and ensuring a successful repair process.
