January 29, 2025
January 30, 2025
Living in Nevada means you’re no stranger to severe weather. Reno, in particular, gets its fair share of unique weather, from winter storms to high winds and intense thunderstorms. While this weather keeps life interesting, it also puts your home—and especially your roof—under constant stress.
Your roof takes the brunt of storms, and the damage left behind can quickly become a homeowner’s nightmare. If not addressed promptly, even minor issues, like missing shingles, can snowball into expensive problems like water leaks, mold growth, or structural damage.
At Mountain Vista, our Reno roofing contractors have seen firsthand the toll storms can take on roofs. Hence, we always emphasize checking for and addressing roof damage right after a storm to prevent further trouble.
This checklist will guide you in spotting signs of roof damage and taking the right steps for repairs or replacement.
After a storm, the first step is to figure out what’s gone wrong.
Start with what you can see. Missing, curled, or cracked shingles are clear signs your roof took a beating. Check for granules—the gritty pieces from your shingles—in the gutters or around your yard. Damaged flashing or soffits from wind or flying debris are another red flag to watch for.
Water damage is one of the biggest risks of a storm-impacted roof. Check your ceilings and walls for water stains or leaks.
If parts of your roof look uneven or saggy, the structure underneath might be compromised. Don’t wait—contact roofing experts right away for an inspection and roof repairs in Reno.
Hailstones can leave dents or punctures on your shingles, while fallen branches can cause cracks or holes. Walk around your home and check for any debris that may have hit the roof.
So, you’ve spotted some damage—what now?
Here’s how to safely assess the situation:
Don’t climb onto the roof yourself—it’s risky, especially if the structure is weakened. Instead, inspect from the ground. Use binoculars if you need a closer look. Also, check for loose debris around your yard that could indicate damage above.
Scan for missing or broken shingles, exposed underlayment, or anything that seems out of place. Inside your attic, look for leaks, sunlight streaming through cracks, or insulation that feels damp. Take clear photos of any damage you see—you’ll need these for roof storm damage repair planning and insurance claims.
If you’re unsure about the extent of the damage or spot something that looks serious, do not hesitate to call your local Carson City roofers.
Once you know the extent of the damage, it’s time to decide whether to repair or replace your roof.
If the damage is minor—perhaps a few missing shingles or a small area hit by debris—you can probably get away with repairs. Quick fixes can make your roof sturdy again without breaking the bank.
For widespread damage, a new roof might be the better option. Repairs won’t hold up if the structure is compromised or the shingles are nearing the end of their lifespan.
The roof replacement process is pricier upfront but is a better long-term investment. You won’t have to worry about recurring problems or future storms worsening things.
Now that you’ve completed your roof damage assessment and determined what needs to be done, it’s time to take action.
As soon as it’s safe, take measures to minimize further damage. Cover any exposed sections of your roof with a tarp to keep water out and protect your home’s interior. Be careful when clearing loose debris from your roof or yard, as sharp or heavy materials can be hazardous.
Roof repairs typically involve replacing missing or damaged shingles, fixing broken gutters, and addressing issues with soffits or flashing. It’s also important to make sure your roof is completely watertight before considering the job done.
In some cases, repairs may include checking and repairing insulation or the underlayment to restore your roof’s full protective capabilities.
If you have any concerns about the stability of your roof, don’t risk it. Get in touch with a Sparks Nevada roofing company right away. Professionals are equipped to handle complex issues and often spot hidden problems that an untrained eye might miss.
If roof damage falls under your insurance coverage, a well-prepared claim can help cover repair costs. However, there are certain steps you need to follow to make sure your claim goes through without problems.
The first step in filing a claim is gathering evidence. Take clear, detailed photos of all visible damage, including broken shingles, water stains, and any debris on or near your roof. If possible, get a professional roof damage assessment to include with your claim.
When the insurance adjuster visits to inspect the damage, be present. Walk them through the areas of concern to make sure they don’t miss anything. Adjusters may overlook subtle signs of damage, so pointing these out can help strengthen your claim.
Many homeowners rush to file insurance claims without fully understanding their policies. Not all roof damage is covered, and some policies specifically exclude certain types of issues, such as damage caused by neglect, poor maintenance, or normal wear and tear.
Before filing a claim, take the time to review your policy in detail. Look for information about what is and isn’t covered, deductibles, and any exclusions related to storm damage. If anything is unclear, contact your insurance provider to clarify the terms.
Taking steps to protect your roof before a storm is much easier and less expensive than dealing with damage afterward.
Make roof inspections part of your seasonal routine. Clear off debris like leaves, branches, and dirt that can trap moisture and lead to shingle damage or mold growth.
Keep an eye out for signs of wear, such as cracked or curling shingles, and replace them promptly. Pay special attention to areas around vents, chimneys, and skylights, as these are common trouble spots.
If your roof is due for a replacement, consider investing in durable, weatherproof materials. Impact-resistant shingles, metal roofing, or other reinforced materials are designed to handle heavy winds, hail, and debris.
You can also reinforce vulnerable areas like flashing, roof vents, and eaves to ensure they hold up during severe weather.
Take a look around your property for potential hazards. Trim back overhanging tree branches to prevent them from falling on your roof during a storm. Secure outdoor items like patio furniture, grills, or potted plants.
Furthermore, remember to clean your gutters and downspouts. Clogged drainage systems can cause water to back up and damage your roof.
While you can’t control the weather, you can minimize its impact with timely roof repairs or replacements. The key is to act fast—don’t let small issues sit and turn into bigger, costlier problems. We hope this checklist helps you quickly spot and address signs of roof damage and protect your home.
Is your roof looking worse for wear after a recent storm? Mountain Vista Roof Systems can help. As Reno’s trusted roofing experts, we’ve served multiple cities and earned the satisfaction of hundreds of happy clients. Our dedication to high-quality, reliable repairs means you can trust us to restore your roof and keep your home safe.
Contact us to request a quote today.
