(440) 307-2060
What is Considered Storm Damage to a Roof?
By S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC – Your Trusted Roofing Experts in Northeast Ohio
Storms can be unpredictable, and when they hit, your roof is your home’s first line of defense. But what exactly qualifies as storm damage to a roof? How do you spot it? What should you do afterward? And most importantly, how can you ensure your insurance covers it?
At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, headquartered in Jefferson, Ohio, and proudly serving areas like Youngstown, Cleveland, Madison, Willoughby, Chardon, and surrounding communities, we’ve seen the devastating effects storms can have on homes across Northeast Ohio. In this detailed guide, we’ll help you decode what storm damage looks like, what steps you should take, and how to protect your investment year-round.
Understanding Storm Damage: More Than Just Missing Shingles
Storm damage to a roof is not always obvious. Many homeowners think it only means a tree crashing down or shingles flying off, but storm damage can be far more subtle and still lead to major problems like leaks, mold, insulation issues, or even structural failure.
Types of Storms That Commonly Cause Roof Damage
Here in Northeast Ohio, your roof can face a variety of severe weather conditions, including:
- Hailstorms
- Windstorms (including microbursts and tornadoes)
- Heavy rain and thunderstorms
- Ice and snowstorms
- Falling debris (tree limbs, etc.)
Each type of storm has unique impacts on your roofing system, which we’ll break down in detail.
Types of Storm Damage to a Roof
1. Hail Damage
Hail is one of the most destructive weather events for roofing materials. Even small hailstones can damage shingles, metal flashing, gutters, and vents.
Signs of Hail Damage:
- Dented or bruised shingles
- Granule loss on asphalt shingles
- Cracked or broken shingles
- Damaged skylights or flashing
- Soft spots when walking on the roof
Many times, hail damage isn’t visible from the ground, which is why a professional roof inspection is necessary after any hailstorm.
2. Wind Damage
Strong winds can lift shingles, curl edges, or remove them entirely. In extreme conditions, winds can expose the underlayment or even the decking of the roof.
Signs of Wind Damage:
- Missing or displaced shingles
- Creased or flapping shingles
- Lifted nails
- Debris impact marks
- Loose flashing or damaged chimney caps
Keep in mind: Wind damage often weakens the integrity of the roofing system without immediate leaks. That’s why regular inspections matter.
3. Rain Damage
While rain doesn’t directly cause shingles to lift or break, it can exploit existing vulnerabilities in the roof, especially after wind or hail events.
Signs of Rain Intrusion:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Sagging or warped drywall
- Mold or mildew in the attic
- Damp insulation
- Rusted nails or fasteners in attic space
Persistent rain can lead to rot, leaks, and mold if storm damage isn’t repaired quickly.
4. Snow and Ice Damage
Northeast Ohio winters can be brutal, and snow/ice buildup can do major damage.
Signs of Ice and Snow Damage:
- Ice dams along roof edges
- Water backing up under shingles
- Cracked shingles due to freezing/thawing cycles
- Gutter overflow or detachment
- Structural stress from snow load
5. Debris Damage
Flying or falling debris like branches can pierce your roof, scrape off granules, or dent metal components.
Common Issues:
- Punctures or tears in shingles or membrane
- Broken gutters or fascia
- Holes in the roof deck
- Clogged downspouts
Even a small branch can do significant damage if it hits in just the right spot.
How to Tell If Your Roof Has Storm Damage
Some signs of storm damage are easy to spot. Others? Not so much. Here’s what to check for:
Exterior Signs
- Missing or curled shingles
- Pieces of shingles in the yard
- Dents on gutters, flashing, or vents
- Damaged or downed tree limbs
- Water pooling around the foundation
Interior Signs
- Ceiling or wall water spots
- Peeling paint near roofline
- Musty smell in attic
- Visible mold growth
- Light shining through attic boards
If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. Call a trusted roofer like S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC right away.
What To Do If You Suspect Storm Damage
- Inspect Safely
Walk around your home and take pictures of any damage you can safely see. Avoid climbing on the roof yourself—leave that to the pros. - Call a Roofing Expert
We offer free storm damage roof inspections in Youngstown, Jefferson, and across Northeast Ohio. Our team knows exactly what to look for and can document everything for your insurance claim. - File a Claim with Your Insurance
If we confirm damage, we’ll help guide you through the insurance process. Our documentation can strengthen your case and improve your chances of approval. - Get Emergency Repairs if Needed
We can tarp or patch any immediate concerns to prevent further damage until full repairs are scheduled.
Insurance and Storm Damage: What You Need to Know
Insurance policies vary, but most cover storm-related roof damage caused by:
- Wind
- Hail
- Lightning
- Falling objects
- Ice or snow collapse
However, they typically do not cover:
- Normal wear and tear
- Poor maintenance
- Pre-existing issues
- Improper installation
Pro Tip:
Your insurer might deny your claim if they believe the damage wasn’t storm-related or if it’s too old. That’s why timing and documentation are everything.
What Happens During a Storm Damage Roof Inspection?
At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, our inspections are thorough and professional. Here’s what we evaluate:
- Shingle condition
- Flashing integrity
- Roof penetrations (vents, pipes)
- Ridge caps and valleys
- Chimney flashing
- Gutter and downspout condition
- Attic interior (moisture, ventilation)
We document all findings with photos and detailed notes for your records or insurance provider.
Why You Should Never Ignore Minor Storm Damage
Even a single lifted shingle can allow water to seep into your home. Ignoring minor damage could lead to:
- Mold infestations
- Rotten decking
- Insulation damage
- Higher energy bills
- Structural issues
The cost to repair a minor issue is far less than replacing an entire roof due to neglect.
Storm Damage and Roof Age: Know the Difference
One common question we hear is: “How do I know if this is storm damage or just an old roof?”
Here’s how to tell:
| Feature | Storm Damage | Age-Related Wear |
|---|---|---|
| Sudden denting | Likely hail impact | Unlikely |
| Random missing shingles | Wind uplift | Granule loss, cracking over time |
| Uniform deterioration | Unlikely | Common with age |
| Insurance claim eligible | Usually | Often not eligible |
A professional roofer can determine the root cause with a detailed inspection.
Serving All of Northeast Ohio
We proudly serve homeowners and businesses throughout:
- Youngstown
- Jefferson
- Madison
- Mentor
- Willoughby
- Euclid
- Cleveland
- Chardon
- Concord
- Wickliffe
- Lyndhurst
- Beachwood
- Twinsburg
- Mayfield Heights
- Kirtland Hills
…and many more cities across Ashtabula, Lake, Geauga, and Cuyahoga counties.
Why Choose S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC?
- 🏆 Owens Corning Preferred Contractor
- ⭐ 5-Star Google Reviews from Homeowners
- 🛠️ Free Inspections & Honest Assessments
- 💵 Flexible Financing Available
- 🏠 Full Service: Roofing, Siding, Gutters & More
- 📍 Locally Owned in Jefferson, OH
We’re not storm chasers. We’re your neighbors. We stand behind our work with warranties and clear communication.
Financing Storm Damage Roof Repairs
Storm damage doesn’t always strike when your budget is ready. That’s why we offer financing options to help homeowners protect their property without delay.
Ask us about:
- No-interest plans
- Low monthly payments
- Fast approval
Your home deserves a safe, reliable roof—regardless of your financial situation.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Storm damage to your roof can lead to costly problems if left unchecked. Whether it’s a few lifted shingles, a tree branch, or a full tear-off situation, the key is acting quickly.
At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we’re committed to helping Northeast Ohio homeowners keep their roofs in top shape—before and after the storm. From free inspections and expert guidance to insurance support and long-lasting repairs, we’ve got you covered.
✅ Call Now for a Free Storm Damage Roof Inspection
📞 440-298-9291
🌐 www.skconstructionremodeling.com
📍 Serving Jefferson, Youngstown, Cleveland, and Surrounding Areas
Don’t let storm damage go unnoticed. Contact S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC today to schedule your free inspection and keep your home protected against the elements.
