The hours after a severe storm passes through your area can be difficult, even chaotic. Knowing what to do at these times can help you get your roof repaired sooner rather than later. In today’s post, the local certified roofers at Arrowhead Roofing share the ABCs of handling roof storm damage.
ASSESS Roof Damage
The first thing you need to do is assess the damage to your roof, but you should only do this once you’re sure it’s safe. In addition to the increased risk of slipping or tripping, you could get hit by airborne debris or be electrocuted by downed power lines. Wait for the storm to pass and make sure there are no such risks when you step outside.
Document the extent of the damage from the beginning, especially if you need to move things out of the way. Keep an eye out for parts of the roof that are out of place, chiefly missing shingles, flashing and signs of impact damage. If you had an emergency roof repair performed during the storm, check and make sure the roof covering installed by your roofing contractor is still intact.
BEGIN Temporary Repairs
Sometimes immediate action will need to be taken to prevent or at least slow down further damage. If water is dripping from the ceiling or leaking from the attic, place buckets underneath to catch the water. Protect your furniture and valuables by covering them with trash bags or a tarpaulin. For smaller items, move them away from any leaks. Make sure you take “before” and “after” photos when you take any of these steps.
CALL Your Insurance Company and Roofing Contractor
You need your roofing contractor and a representative from your insurance company — called an insurance adjuster — on-site to file an insurance claim. Your roofing contractor will perform a thorough and accurate assessment of your roof’s condition and provide an estimate of the repair costs, both of which will be required by your insurance provider. The insurance adjuster also needs to be there to collect and verify documentation, as well as walk you through the claims process. Avoid traveling roofing teams or “storm chasers”, and only entrust your roof to local roofing contractors.
Arrowhead Roofing is your leading provider of roof maintenance services to communities in the Midwest and South. Give us a call at (918) 509-3624. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.
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