When a storm rolls through, your roof takes the brunt of nature’s force to keep you safe and sound. Unfortunately, wind, hail, heavy rain, or ice can cause roof storm damage that is often hard to detect.
Most homeowners discover storm damage after it’s too late. From hidden leaks to torn shingles, what may seem like minor wear can quickly cause major structural issues or interior water damage.
Staying calm and taking the right steps early on can save you time, stress, and money. This guide from the roofing experts at Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Gutters walks you through the process of identifying roof damage from storms, protecting your property, working with insurance companies, and avoiding common pitfalls—all to keep your home and budget intact.
Fixing storm damage on your roof doesn’t need to be a hassle, and we’re here to make sure of that.
Common Types of Storm Damage to Roofs
Storms can inflict damage in various ways, depending on the prevailing weather conditions. Some of the most frequent types of roof storm damage we encounter include:
Wind Damage
Strong winds can lift or tear shingles from your roof, often leaving bare spots that expose the underlayment or decking. Even remaining shingles may be curled or loose, allowing water to enter beneath.
Hail Damage
Hail often leaves behind dimpled or bruised shingles, stripped granules, and even punctures—especially on aging roofs. You may not notice these problems right away, but they can shorten the lifespan of your roof over time.
Ice Damage
During winter storms, ice dams can trap melting snow, forcing it beneath shingles. This may lead to rot, ceiling leaks, or damage to insulation over time.
Water Intrusion
Heavy rain or snowmelt can seep into vulnerable points in the roof. If you notice signs of staining or peeling inside, your roof may already be leaking.
Not sure what kind of damage you’re dealing with? Consider scheduling storm damage roof repair services with the experts who have seen it all.
Signs You May Have Roof Storm Damage
Some signs of roof storm damage are obvious. Others are more subtle and may take a trained eye to identify. You should check both the interior and exterior of your home after a major storm.
When looking inside your home, water stains on ceilings or walls, sagging drywall, or a mildew smell are strong indicators of a leak. In the attic, you might notice damp insulation or even visible daylight through the roof boards.
On the outside, look for missing or uneven shingles, dented gutters, loose flashing, or piles of granules collecting in gutters and downspouts. A buildup of debris on the roof can also signal areas of impact or pooling water.
You should avoid going onto your roof to look for these issues. Walking on a roof after a storm can be highly dangerous and is best left to a professional roof inspection team.
Even if things look mostly intact, hidden damage can still be lurking, especially in areas that are hard to see from the ground.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Storm
Once the storm passes, it’s important to take quick but careful action. First and foremost, avoid climbing on your roof. Damaged roofing surfaces can be slippery and unstable.
Instead, document everything that is safely observable. Take wide shots of your property and close-ups of any visible roof damage, siding dents, or interior leaks. This visual evidence will be critical if you need to file an insurance claim.
If water is actively entering your home, you can use a tarp or temporary seal to minimize damage, but only if it’s safe to do so.
Your best move? Contact a professional roof repair team, such as Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Gutters. We will perform a complete damage assessment and guide you through the next steps.
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
After a storm, one of the smartest moves you can make is to call an experienced roofing contractor for a formal inspection. DIY checks have limitations—you might miss hidden damage that could cost you thousands in the future.
Professional inspections typically include a thorough perimeter walk, an attic inspection, and a detailed examination of shingles, flashing, and gutters. Many contractors also document issues with high-res photos and can help translate their findings into a language your insurance adjuster understands.
Looking for an experienced team to inspect your roof? Contact our team for a free roof inspection to ensure nothing gets overlooked.
Understand Your Insurance Policy Before Filing
Homeowners’ insurance typically covers storm-related roof damage, but the fine print matters.
Some policies pay out based on Actual Cash Value (ACV), which subtracts depreciation from your roof’s worth. Others offer Replacement Cost Value (RCV), which covers the full cost to replace your roof, minus your deductible. The difference can amount to thousands of dollars.
Also, be aware of your deductible and any exclusions your policy may include. Some insurers won’t cover cosmetic hail damage or issues caused by neglect. Most require claims to be submitted within 6 to 12 months of the damage event.
Reading your policy thoroughly or speaking with your agent before filing can help avoid surprises and set proper expectations.
How to File a Storm Damage Roof Insurance Claim
Filing a claim doesn’t need to be overwhelming, especially if you have a knowledgeable contractor by your side.
Here’s a streamlined version of the typical process:
Step 1: Get a Professional Inspection
This gives you clear evidence of the damage and a repair estimate.
Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company
Provide photos, notes, and documentation from your roofer.
Step 3: Meet with the Adjuster
Your roofer should join the inspection to ensure nothing gets missed or undervalued.
Step 4: Receive an Estimate
The insurance company provides a summary of what they’ll cover. If it’s too low, your roofer may help file a supplement.
Step 5: Approve & Begin Repairs
Once everything is agreed upon, work can begin.
What Happens After the Claim Is Approved
Once your storm damage roof claim is approved, you’ll usually receive an initial payment, often the ACV amount, to get started. The remainder is released after the work is done and documented.
Your roofing contractor will work with you to schedule the job, manage materials, and ensure repairs stay within the insurance scope. If additional damage is discovered once the old roof is removed, your contractor can file a supplement to get more funds approved.
After repairs are complete, your roofer submits final documentation to your insurer, and the final payment (often the RCV amount) is released.
How to Choose the Right Roofing Contractor
Not all roofers perform the same level of work. Making the right choice is important, especially after a storm, when out-of-town “storm chasers” show up offering quick, cheap repairs. Choosing the right roofing contractor can save you a world of headaches, ensuring you receive high-quality work that will last for years.
Look for a roofing contractor who:
- Has a permanent local presence with strong reviews
- Is licensed and insured in your state
- Has experience with roof storm damage and insurance claims
- Provides a clear written estimate and scope of work
Avoid contractors who demand full payment up front, offer to “cover your deductible,” or use high-pressure tactics. A good roofer will guide you, not pressure you.
Prevention & Maintenance Tips to Reduce Future Storm Damage
Proactive maintenance is one of the best ways to minimize the risk of future roof damage from storm impacts.
Start by scheduling annual roof inspections to catch minor issues before they escalate into major problems. This is especially important before storm season.
Upgrading your materials also makes a difference. Consider impact-resistant asphalt shingles, which are designed to hold up better against hail and wind.
Finally, don’t forget the basics:
- Clean your gutters regularly
- Reinforce flashing
- Trim nearby tree branches
- Secure loose vents or satellite equipment
Schedule a Free Storm Damage Inspection Today
Storm damage isn’t always obvious, but it always deserves attention. If you’ve recently experienced a storm and aren’t sure if your roof was affected, the safest option is to get a professional inspection.
At Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Gutters, we offer:
- Free, no-pressure roof inspections
- Fast roof storm damage response
- Insurance claim guidance and documentation
- Trusted local service from certified experts
At Adam Vaillancourt Roofing & Gutters, we have a simple yet important approach: underpromise and overdeliver. We are committed to exceeding your expectations and delivering long-lasting roof repairs.
Visit our storm damage roof repair page or contact us today to protect your home with confidence.
