High winds can damage roofs whether they’re accompanied by other harmful weather such as hail or not.
Here’s what you need to know about storms and roof damage to you home.
Hail Damage
Hail can cause extensive damage, which will vary depending upon the roofing material. For example, hail damage on a roof with asphalt or composite shingles can cause a loss of shingle granules. This exposes the roofing felt underneath.
Fortunately, most homeowner’s insurance policies cover hail damage, which is one of the most common homeowner’s claims.
Tornado Damage
It’s no secret that tornadoes can cause significant destruction. A tornado can have a vacuum effect that sucks roofing material off of the house as flying debris also causes damage.
Homeowner’s policies typically cover roof damage caused by high winds. Coverage may depend on the type and amount of coverage, and the cause of damage.
Wind Damage
High winds can damage roofs whether they’re accompanied by other harmful weather such as hail or not. Damage may include leaks, missing shingles, and more.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover wind damage, including tree-related damage caused by high winds.
Heavy Rain Damage
Heavy rain can cause many types of damage to your home’s roof, including leaks, stains, rot, mold, and cracks. This all can lead to the formation of destructive ice dams in the winter months.
Most standard homeowner’s policies cover rain damage (unless leaks are the result of negligence, such as a lack of regular maintenance. Policies usually cover damage caused by Mother Nature.
Thunder/Lightning Damage
Thunder and lightning can blast shingles off your roof and may lead to a fire if it ignites the wooden beams underneath. The good news is that most policies cover lightning strikes and the ensuing damage.
Insurance and Storm Damage
One of the first things you should do when storm damage occurs is to call your insurance company. Your homeowner’s insurance policy should provide coverage for many types of damage. Your insurance agent will go over the policy specifics with you.
The following are some tips for filing a claim:
- Have your insurance policy with you when you call your agent.
- Understand the procedures and deadlines for filing a claim.
- Go over all of the details your policy covers.
- Set up an appointment with the insurance adjuster as soon as possible.
- Ask your agent about the claims payment process.
The importance of working with a local roofer
Choosing a qualified, dependable roofer like Muth & Company Roofing is most important when storms damage your roof. We will professionally handle the necessary roof repairs, or roof replacement, if necessary. We have years of experience processing insurance claims properly and efficiently.
Finally, choose a local roofer when storm damage occurs. Areas where storms frequently occur are often inundated with “storm chasers” who target homeowners. They typically don’t stick around to support their work after it’s finished.
When you experience roof damage due to a storm, contact your local Columbus, OH roofer, Muth & Company Roofing, at (614) 882-0900. Get a FREE estimate on storm damage repair, roof repair, roof replacement or chimney repair.