A single storm can do a surprising amount of damage to a roof, particularly when strong winds, driving rain, hail, and falling branches arrive together. Some of that damage is easy to see. The rest can stay hidden until water finds its way into your home.
If you live in Harrisburg or a nearby community, it’s worth looking over your roof after every major storm. That doesn’t mean getting up on a ladder. Climbing onto a storm-damaged roof puts your safety at risk and is best left to professionals. Fortunately, many warning signs are visible from the ground.
Storm Damage Signs You Can Spot from the Ground
Missing or Lifted Shingles
Missing shingles are usually the first thing homeowners notice. Look for pieces scattered across the yard or bare patches on the roof. Lifted shingles are less obvious but deserve the same attention, because once wind breaks a shingle’s seal, rain can blow up and under it.
Heavy Granule Buildup
Take a look inside your gutters and on the ground below your downspouts. Shingles shed a few granules naturally as they age, but a sudden pile of them after a storm often means the shingle surface took a hit.
Dents from Hail
Hail damage on shingles can be hard to see from below, but softer metals tell the story. Check gutters, downspouts, roof vents, window screens, and the fins on your outdoor AC unit for fresh dents. If those surfaces took a beating, your shingles likely did too. On the roof itself, hail tends to leave dark, rounded marks where the impact knocked granules loose.
Flashing Trouble Spots
Wind-driven rain is good at finding weak points. Chimneys, skylights, valleys, pipe boots, and areas where the roof meets a wall all depend on flashing to stay watertight. If those materials are damaged or worn, water can work its way inside.
Signs of Storm Damage Inside Your Home
Scan your ceilings and walls for new water stains. Then head up to the attic and look for:
- Damp insulation
- Water spots on the rafters or decking
- Daylight coming through the roof boards
A small leak won’t stay small for long, so don’t put off dealing with it.
What to Do After You Find Damage
Getting the roof inspected promptly can keep a minor issue from turning into a major repair. A professional inspection also gives you documentation, which can be valuable if you end up filing an insurance claim. Note the date of the storm as well, since your insurer will likely ask for it.
| Expert tip: Many homeowners insurance policies set a time limit for reporting storm damage. Review your policy’s terms now rather than waiting until a leak forces the issue. |
It’s also wise to be cautious with out-of-town contractors who knock on doors right after a storm. In Pennsylvania, home improvement contractors must register with the Attorney General’s office and include their registration number on contracts. Asking for that number is a quick way to screen who you’re dealing with.
Storm Damage Roof Repair in Harrisburg and Surrounding Areas
Encore Roofing provides storm damage inspections, roof repairs, and roof replacements throughout Harrisburg, Mechanicsburg, Camp Hill, Carlisle, Perry County, and nearby areas.
We give honest advice and never rely on scare tactics. If your roof can be repaired, we’ll tell you. If it needs to be replaced, we’ll explain the reasons clearly.
For storm damage roofing help, call Encore Roofing at 717-979-1975.
