During the spring and summer thunderstorm seasons, homeowners should be on the lookout for storm damage occurring to their roofs. Of course, most of the exterior components on your home (Siding, Gutters, Windows) can handle torrential rain and severe weather without having any failure occurring, but the roof can and will sustain damage the easiest.
Since most of us don’t usually look at our roofs, taking the time to do just that is important following any severe weather. Undetected damage can lead to further issues down the line. Here are some things to look for that may indicate damage. If you notice any of these issues, contact a professional to inspect, repair, and possibly a new roof installation. See the gallery at the bottom of the page for images of storm damage to roofing and other exterior components.
Indications of Roof Storm Damage
Debris On The Ground
When a strong thunderstorm or hailstorm rolls through, residents may not know unless there’s some sign of the storm left behind. High winds and hail will cause limbs and leaves to come off of the trees, leaving a very visible fingerprint of a severe storm. If you see any of the following, you know your home has experienced a severe storm and you may have sustained roof damage: Large amounts of fresh green leaves and limbs on your roof, green leaves stuck to the siding of your home and, easiest to spot, fresh green foliage built up in the center of the roads.
Missing Roof Shingles
The most obvious signs of storm damage are missing shingles. For example, you might notice that shingles or tiles on your roof are missing or lying in your yard. If you see this, a thorough inspection will need to be done, and a temporary tarp will need to be installed over the missing shingles to prevent leakage, as this can be a significant problem for any house. 
Wind Creases
Wind Crease marks are another sign that there may be damage to your roof. A “Wind Crease” is where the wind has broken the asphalt sealant loose and lifted the shingle to a point where it breaks the fiberglass matting. The fiberglass matting in your shingles is the “backbone” of the shingle, and when broken it is looked at like a missing shingle because it will never re-seal itself.
You might see creases or indentations on your shingles even though the shingles are still in place. Wind creases are a sign that something beneath the shingle may also be damaged. Leaks inside your home may result. This type of wind damage can be very difficult to spot from the ground, you’ll be looking for a dark line at the top of your shingles.
Curling Shingles
Curling of the edge of the shingles could also indicate storm damage, though it is most often a result of the oils leaching out of the asphalt in the shingles. Shingles should be flat, not curved. If there have been heavy winds in your area, you may see curled shingles. Water from future storms may now get under the shingle and cause damage. Debris and pollen can also adhere to the tar-adhesive on the shingles and prevent them from resealing. If you see curling shingles, you’ll need to plan for a new roof installation soon.
Holes and Cracks
Holes and cracks will be present when there is hail damage. The force of large hail coming down on your roof can cause this type of damage. If you see indentations on your roof, get an inspector to take a closer look. Cracked or damaged roofing materials need to be repaired or replaced. 
Staining Indoors
Finally, take a look inside your house. If your roof has holes, it could start leaking water into your home, leaving behind stains and water damage. Always check inside your home after a big storm. Look for water damage in the attic, on ceilings, and along walls. If damage is found, contact a professional immediately.
Odyssey Contracting
If you need a roof installation or repairs to a storm-damaged roof, contact Odyssey Contracting today. Our professional roof inspections and installers can identify and repair any damage. Contact us at 919-916-5640. Don’t forget to follow us on social media for our latest deals and specials & events!