How to Identify Storm Damage on Your Roof After Severe Weather

By All For One Roofing

on August 22, 2025

Homeowner inspecting roof shingles with visible storm damage and debris

Intro

A severe storm can leave your home feeling uncertain. You may be worried about leaks, safety, or whether your insurance will cover repairs. We’ve helped many homeowners after hail, high winds, and heavy rains. This guide shows clear, practical steps to find damage, decide how urgent it is, document evidence, and get emergency roofing help if needed.

Problem / Scenario

After a storm, damage isn’t always obvious from the street. Some problems are cosmetic, while others can let water in quickly. Weather can change a small issue into an emergency fast. Below are step-by-step checks and actions to help you assess your roof and prioritize next steps.

Quick Safety Checklist (before you go outside)

Check local conditions first. If storms are still active, wait until the weather clears.
Watch for downed power lines or loose cables. Keep people and pets away.
Avoid climbing onto a wet or icy roof. Slips are common after storms.
Use a stable ladder with a helper steadying it. Follow OSHA ladder safety basics.
Wear gloves, safety glasses, and a dust mask if you expect debris or insulation exposure.
If you smell gas, see electrical arcing, or experience major structural collapse, evacuate and call emergency services.

Quick visual exterior checklist (missing shingles, granule loss, dents, curled edges) 🚨

Walk your property perimeter and look up. Use binoculars if you can. If you see any of these signs, note them and photograph them.

What to look for on shingles and roofing materials:

Missing shingles or large gaps in the roofing field.
Granule loss from asphalt shingles—dark, smooth spots or piles of granules in gutters.
Curling, buckling, or split shingle edges.
Dents or pitting on metal panels or flashing.
Cracked or broken tiles on tile roofs.
Loose flashing around chimneys, vents, skylights, and valleys.
Gutters clogged with shingle grit, tiles, or roof fragments.
Pooled water or drainage changes on low-slope or flat roofs.
Fallen fasteners or exposed nail heads.

Hail vs wind signs (pitted shingles, bruising, shingle fragments in yard)

Hail:

Round, pitted impressions on shingles and metal.
“Bruising” on asphalt shingles—soft spots that may not break immediately but show as darker areas.
Dents in gutters, vents, or metal flashing.
Broken tiles with circular-shaped impact patterns.

Wind:

Shingles lifted, edges torn, or shingles completely torn off.
Shingle tabs shredded or tucked under neighboring shingles.
Granules stripped from delaminated shingle layers.
Debris caught on the roof that could indicate uplift.

Attic and interior indicators

Some damage doesn’t show from the outside. Check inside the house next.

What to look for:

Water stains on ceiling paint or drywall (brown or yellow marks).
Fresh wet spots on ceilings after rain, or damp streaks on interior walls.
Wet or compacted insulation in the attic—inspect insulation for dark spots or clumps that hold together.
Light coming through the roof deck when the attic is dark—this indicates holes or missing shingles.
Sagging roof deck or visible warping of wood sheathing.
New mold or musty odors in the attic or upper floors.
Drips, puddles, or active leaks after the storm.

When to check the attic and how to do it safely

Wait until the storm is over and it is safe to enter the property.
Bring a flashlight, gloves, and a dust mask. Wear long sleeves and sturdy shoes.
Walk carefully on joists or a clear path—avoid stepping between joists where you could fall through ceiling drywall.
Use a helper or phone contact; do not go into the attic alone if there is structural damage or you smell gas.
Turn off power to attic lights if water is present near fixtures — consult an electrician if unsure.
If the attic is full of debris or looks unstable, stop and call professionals.

Severity matrix: cosmetic, moderate, emergency (what each means for homeowners and insurers)

Cosmetic (low urgency)

What it looks like: Minor granule loss, a few curled shingle edges, small dents on metal.
Risk: Does not usually allow water entry now, but can shorten roof life.
For insurance: May not meet insurer’s threshold for replacement if only cosmetic; document and discuss with adjuster.
Actions: Monitor, schedule a non-urgent repair or maintenance visit.

Moderate (repair recommended soon)

What it looks like: Several missing shingles, cracked tiles, damaged flashing, small leaks.
Risk: Increased chance of leaks and interior damage. Mold risk in weeks if not fixed.
For insurance: Often covered if caused by a storm event. Provide photos and timelines.
Actions: Arrange repairs within days to weeks. Consider temporary tarping if leak risk is immediate.

Emergency (act now; call for emergency roofing) 🚧

What it looks like: Active leaking, large sections of roof missing, sagging deck, visible structural failure, interior flooding.
Risk: Immediate threat to structure, safety, or belongings.
For insurance: Emergency tarping and mitigation usually covered. Document everything immediately.
Actions: Contact emergency roofing and emergency services if life safety is at risk. Protect interior with tarps and move valuables.

Documenting damage for insurance claims

Documentation is key. Most insurers require clear evidence of weather-related damage. Be methodical.

What to collect:

Time-stamped photos and videos from multiple angles.
Date and time of the storm and the time you noticed damage.
Weather reports for the event (use NOAA or National Weather Service storm summaries).
Receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary tarping.
A written log of observations—what you checked, when, and what you found.

Examples of photos to capture

Wide shot of the entire roof from ground level showing overall condition.
Close-ups of missing shingles, torn edges, and granule loss.
Dents or pitting on metal flashing, vents, gutters.
Interior photos: ceiling stains, wet insulation, water pooling.
Gutters filled with shingle granules or tile fragments.
Fallen debris on the lawn to show hail size or wind-carried materials.
Damage to vents, skylights, and chimney flashing.

How to take useful photos:

Include a timestamp or use your phone’s timestamp feature.
Place a common object (like a coin or ruler) near small damage for scale.
Photograph progression—first discovery, temporary repairs, final repairs.

Common storm-related failures by roofing material

Asphalt shingle roofs

Vulnerabilities: Loss of granules, bruising from hail, blown-off shingles with high winds.
Typical failures: Exposed underlayment, torn tabs, leaking at seams and flashing.
Lifespan effect: Older shingles (15+ years) are more brittle and fail faster.

Metal roofs

Vulnerabilities: Dents from hail, loose or missing fasteners, seam separation in high winds.
Typical failures: Punctures, torn flashings, water entry at eased seams.
Lifespan effect: Metal resists wind but can suffer localized impact damage.

Tile roofs (clay or concrete)

Vulnerabilities: Cracking or broken tiles from hail, falling branches, or foot traffic.
Typical failures: Water entry through cracked tiles, displaced tiles from wind.
Lifespan effect: Tile can be durable but brittle when aged.

Flat roofs (modified bitumen, TPO, EPDM)

Vulnerabilities: Ponding water after storm, seam failures, membrane punctures.
Typical failures: Leaks at seams, roof-edge blow-offs, blistering.
Lifespan effect: Regular maintenance is critical; debris can clog drains and cause ponding.

How roof age affects vulnerability

Newer roofs have more wind and impact resistance if installed to code and with current materials.
Older roofs can be brittle or have weakened fasteners and underlayment.
Manufacturers’ wind and hail ratings decline in effectiveness as materials age.
Insurance companies often consider roof age when approving full replacements.

Temporary measures to prevent water intrusion

If you find active leaks or exposed roof deck:

Apply tarps: Cover damaged areas with contractor-grade tarps and secure with batten boards if possible. This reduces immediate water entry.
Use buckets and towels: Catch drips and protect floors and furniture.
Clear gutters and downspouts: Prevent overflow that adds pressure to damaged areas.
Protect interiors: Move valuables and electronics away from damaged zones.
Temporary patching: Self-adhesive leak patches or roof sealants can buy time but are not permanent.

DIY vs. Call a Pro

When to try minor checks yourself:

If you can safely inspect from the ground or a stable ladder and damage looks minor.
If you only need basic documentation (photos, videos).
If you can safely clear gutters or remove small debris.

When to call a professional:

Active leaks, sagging roof deck, large missing sections, or structural damage.
If you need roof tarping, structural shoring, or electrical shutoff near water.
If you’re unsure about the cause or extent of damage.
When dealing with insurance claims—professionals can help document and estimate repairs.

Why call emergency roofing services

A professional crew can tarp and stabilize the roof safely.
They can identify hidden damage and prevent further loss.
We provide documentation and work with adjusters as part of claim support.

What Pros Do On Arrival

A professional storm-restoration crew follows a typical process when called.

Initial assessment and safety

Secure the site and evaluate hazards: loose debris, electrical risks, structural issues.
Place warning signage or barriers if needed.

Temporary protection

Install tarps over exposed areas or use temporary patch materials to stop leaks.
Secure gutters and downspouts to maintain drainage.

Detailed inspection and documentation

Full roof inspection: shingles, flashing, penetrations, attic inspection.
Photos and reports for homeowner and insurer, including measurements and condition notes.

Repair plan and estimate

Provide an itemized scope: temporary measures, repairs, or replacement options.
Explain timelines and materials, and discuss insurance support.

Coordination with insurers

Help present documentation to adjusters.
Clarify repair versus replacement scenarios and help manage supplemental claims if more damage is found.

Follow-up work

Carry out repairs or replacement per agreed scope.
Clean up job site, including debris removal and gutter clearing.

Prevention & Maintenance

Simple steps reduce storm risk and extend roof life.

Regular maintenance checklist:

Inspect roofs twice a year and after major storms.
Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ponding and ice dams.
Trim overhanging branches that can break and fall on the roof.
Replace damaged flashing and seal around penetrations.
Maintain attic ventilation and insulation to prevent ice dams and shingle buckling.
Schedule professional inspections every 3–5 years or after severe weather.

Upgrades to consider:

Impact-resistant shingles rated for hail and high winds.
Straps and clips for better wind resistance on older roofs.
Metal flashing and durable vents to reduce lift and water entry.
Coatings for flat roofs to improve waterproofing and UV resistance.
Eco-friendly roofing options that still meet wind and impact ratings.

Costs & Time Factors (ranges, not quotes)

Costs vary by roof size, material, and region. Below are typical ranges to give homeowners a sense of scale.

Small repairs (single area, flashing, a few shingles)

Cost range: $150 – $1,000
Timeframe: A few hours to a day

Moderate repairs (multiple areas, tile replacements, flashing replacement)

Cost range: $1,000 – $5,000
Timeframe: 1–5 days (depending on scheduling)

Large repairs or partial replacement

Cost range: $5,000 – $15,000+
Timeframe: Several days to 2 weeks (including material lead times)

Full roof replacement (residential)

Cost range: $6,000 – $30,000+ depending on size and materials (shingles to metal or tile)
Timeframe: 1–3 weeks typical; longer under heavy storm demand

Commercial or complex roofs

Cost range: Varies widely; commercial roofs are priced per square foot and depend on material, access, and structural work.
Timeframe: Weeks to months for large, complex replacements.

Factors that affect cost and time:

Roof pitch and accessibility.
Material type (shingles vs. metal vs. tile).
Extent of deck or structural repair.
Local labor availability after a storm—waiting times can increase during recovery periods.

When It’s an Emergency

Call for emergency roofing if you see:

Active, uncontrolled leaking that threatens wiring, appliances, or occupants.
Large sections of roof missing and interior exposure.
Sagging roof deck, truss failure, or visible structural collapse.
Gas smell or exposed electrical hazards from water entry.

Emergency Services near you

If immediate help is needed, reach out to emergency roofing crews that handle tarping and mitigation. All For One Roofing provides 24/7 emergency roofing response and can arrange safe temporary protection until repairs or replacements occur.

FAQ (2–4 common questions)

Q: How soon should I document damage after a storm? A: As soon as it is safe. Take photos and notes immediately after the weather clears. Timely documentation helps with insurance timelines and adjuster visits.

Q: Will my insurance replace my roof after hail or wind damage? A: Coverage depends on your policy and the type of damage. Storm-caused damage is often covered, but policies vary. Document carefully and report promptly. We can help prepare documentation for your adjuster.

Q: Can I put a tarp on my roof myself? A: You can, but do so only if it’s safe. Secure tarps with batten boards rather than nails. If you’re uncomfortable with heights or if structural damage exists, call a professional for emergency tarping.

Q: How can I tell if hail broke my shingles or just knocked off granules? A: Look for round pockmarks, bruising (dark spots), and broken granules in gutters. Bruised shingles may fail sooner even if not visibly torn. A pro can test and confirm.

Local/Seasonal Considerations

Regional storms and seasons change the risks your roof faces.

Hurricanes and tropical storms

Areas with hurricanes face wind uplift, missing shingles, and major storm surge hazards.
Early hurricane season inspections (spring) can reveal vulnerabilities.
Ensure wind-speed-rated materials and properly secured flashing.

Hail belts and spring storms

Regions with frequent hail (plains, parts of the Midwest) can see sudden widespread damage.
Inspect after hail events—metal dents and shingle bruising are common.

Derecho and straight-line winds

Fast-moving wind storms can strip shingles and tear off roof edges across a wide area.
Wind-driven debris is also a major damage cause.

Winter storms and ice dams

Freeze-thaw cycles cause ice dams that back water under shingles.
Good attic insulation and ventilation reduce ice dam risk.

Seasonal timing for inspections

After major storm seasons—spring for hail, late summer for hurricanes, fall before winter—schedule proactive inspections.
After any major event, prioritize an inspection as soon as it is safe.

Safety and authoritative guidance

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) offers ladder and fall protection guidance—follow their basic safety recommendations.
FEMA guidance recommends prompt tarping and mitigation after storms to prevent further damage; document all actions and receipts.
National Weather Service and NOAA provide storm reports and hail size data useful for claims.
The International Residential Code (IRC) outlines roofing installation and flashing practices to meet safety and performance standards.
Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) publishes research on hail and wind-resistant roof systems.

All For One Roofing storm-restoration credentials and insurance support

All For One Roofing is a licensed and insured roofing contractor experienced in storm restoration and emergency roofing work.
Our crews are trained in safe tarping, temporary protection, and attic moisture assessment.
We document damage with detailed reports and photos for claims.
Our process: emergency response and tarping → full inspection and estimate → work authorization and repair/replacement → final walk-through and debris removal.
We coordinate with insurance adjusters and can provide line-item estimates to help clarify scope and support the claims process.

Before-and-after case study blurbs

Case study: Suburban home, wind damage (before)

After a late-summer windstorm, a homeowner found a strip of shingles missing near the hip and water staining in two upstairs rooms. They called us for emergency tarping. We documented the damage for the insurer and completed a three-day repair to replace decking and install new shingles. Photos and notes were provided to the adjuster, who approved the claim.

Case study: Hail damage, tile roof (before)

A family noticed small, circular cracks in several tiles after a hail storm. Our inspection found multiple fractured tiles and a cracked skylight flashing. Temporary covers prevented leaks, and we coordinated tile replacement and flashing repairs. The attic remained dry and the insurer approved the repairs based on our documentation.

How to decide next steps (quick decision guide)

No visible damage and no attic issues: Monitor and schedule a post-season inspection.
Cosmetic damage only (no leaks): Document and plan non-urgent maintenance.
Several missing shingles or cracked tiles: Arrange repairs within days; consider temporary tarp if rain is expected.
Active leaks or structural issues: Call emergency roofing now.

Checklist to hand to your insurer or adjuster

Date/time you discovered damage.
Photos and videos with timestamps.
Weather event summary (NOAA or National Weather Service report).
Any temporary measures taken (tarps, emergency patches) plus receipts.
Contact details for your roofing contractor and scope of proposed repairs.

Final safety reminders

Do not enter a structurally compromised building.
Avoid walking on wet or icy roofs.
If you see gas leaks or exposed live wires, leave immediately and call emergency services.
Keep documentation safe—store photos and receipts in multiple places (cloud + physical).

Closing / Next steps

You now know how to spot storm damage, assess urgency, and document what insurers will want. If you’re unsure, or if you have active leaks or structural concerns, contact a professional. All For One Roofing offers 24/7 emergency roofing response and can help with documentation and coordination with your insurer.

Call All For One Roofing now — or reach us anytime at 877-787-2812 .