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Households unlucky enough to be caught in a storm can have major problems with their roof, especially in areas with variable climates like Lexington, Kentucky, which averages about 45 inches of rain and 13 inches of snow every year.
Sometimes, the damage is obvious and can be seen immediately afterward. However, many homeowners in Kentucky do not pay enough attention to damages beneath the surface, which leads to a pile-up and much bigger problems that require large roofing repairs to be fixed. After such unfortunate events, homeowners often overlook detailed inspections by specialized staff unless some holes and leaks need immediate fixing.
The roof is a shield that guards the house from ruthless mother nature, and every owner has to be aware of its state and structural integrity. Stay until the end of this blog to learn more about specialized roof inspection and its importance in times of unfortunate events.
How Can Storms Impact Your Roof?
Depending on the area you are located in, as well as the period of the year, Kentucky storms can cause different types of damage that may require professional roofing repairs. Here are some of the most common damages caused by nature that our house can be hit with:
- Wind damage. Winds are some of the biggest safety hazards to your property. High winds can damage the shingles and change the arrangement of other components, which will cause holes to appear. These are some visible damages that must be repaired immediately, although winds can also cause hidden damages to the roof structure that will make it vulnerable and not strong enough to withstand some future similar situations.
- Hail damage. Hail is another big problem for roofs. While most hailstones are up to 5 inches in diameter, which can also pose a major problem for homes due to the intensity with which they fall, the largest hailstones measured in South Dakota in 2010 were eight inches in diameter. In most cases, the hailstones damage any roof significantly, but they can also slightly crack the shingles, something not entirely visible. This may not show immediately, but in the long term, it can make the roof vulnerable to rain and lead to larger damage and deterioration over time.
- Water damage. Heavy rains lead to water pooling on the roof, making it more likely that it will find its way inside your house through tiny irregularities and openings. Sometimes, heavy rains impact like hail and lead to displacement of roof components. In addition, they lead to deterioration over time and invisible damages that can be prevented with a timely inspection.
- Fallen branches or debris damage. Falling branches and other types of tree debris can be a big problem for a roof due to the weight of the components doing the damage. Furthermore, debris can cloak the gutters and cause further damage from the rain due to the lack of drainage. Damage from branches usually occurs in one place where it is visible. However, the common mistake is not to check the rest of the roof, which has also changed its structure and remains vulnerable to some subsequent similar situations. Roofs with broken integrity of its structural elements are insufficient protection for your home.
Components of the Roof That Can Suffer Hidden Damage
Different types of storms have different impacts on roof components. Here are some of the most common damages your roof can sustain from a storm:
- Attics. The attic, although not on the roof surface, is a key part of maintaining the roof’s integrity. Insufficient maintenance can lead to deterioration of wooden structures over time.
- Roof decks. The roof deck primarily provides support and stability and should not be exposed to direct influence from external factors. However, it is also vulnerable in the event of a storm and usually gets worse over time with insufficient maintenance. Because this part of the roof requires special attention from professional roofing services with proper equipment and knowledge, it is often neglected, leading to a compromise of the roof’s stability.
- Gutters. Gutters provide roof drainage and direct water to the ground surface. However, they are vulnerable in severe weather and can be clogged by debris and also damaged by strong winds. This can lead to uncontrolled water leakage, lack of protection for windows, as well as water accumulation on the roof.
- Flashing. Flashing closes the small openings on the roof around the chimneys and vents. With its help, we prevent water from entering the interior, and it is a crucial part of maintaining the roof’s integrity. However, the storm can harm it, and it will not be immediately visible because it does not open large leaks that will cause panic.
- Insulation. Insulation is a key part of maintaining the temperature in summer and winter and reducing heating and cooling costs. It can also be damaged in storms through water infiltration and displacement. Thus, the effectiveness is lost, and the function of the insulation is compromised.
Roof repairs and maintenance
When it comes to repairing the roof, the contractor will mostly be needed for missing and damaged shingles, leaks, and similar things. Here, the work is quite straightforward – they remove and replace the damaged shingles with new ones. If a leak occurs, the source is identified and repaired with roofing cement. If the hole is larger, shingles replacement or underlayment repair may be involved. This maintenance can be done with regular inspection, cleaning, and moss and algae control.
Why Should You Opt for Professional Inspection After Storms?
In the event of harsh storms, many homeowners often repair the visible big damages first, which can immediately harm the house. However, special roofing services should not be an exception and should be a priority. Here are some reasons why:
- Detection of hidden damages. Early detection of hidden damages, such as water intrusion and underlying damage to the components, is key to the preservation of the roof structure. That type of damage can worsen over time, and a professional roofer, such as our professionals at Roof Secured – a family-owned business with over 10 years of experience – is required to detect and address them in a timely manner. Professionals specialized in roofing have all the knowledge and the tools to assess the roofing system, which may not be the case with the homeowner.
- Weak roof structures suffer more. Aged or not properly set roof structures with compromised integrity can suffer more in case of storms, and it only gets worse over time. Professionals recognize and prevent the damage in time.
- Safety and security. Working on roofs, especially after storms, means working in high and risky places. Professional roofing specialists know how to handle these situations with minimal to no risk to their safety. On the other hand, working in such conditions can be risky for homeowners if they do not have the required experience and equipment.
Protect Your Home with a Professional Roof Inspection
After a storm, your roof may have sustained damage that’s not immediately visible, putting your home at risk. Scheduling a professional inspection is essential for catching hidden issues before they become costly repairs. Don’t wait for small problems to turn into major headaches. Ensure the safety and longevity of your home by calling Roof Secured today to book your post-storm roof inspection. Our experienced team will help protect your investment and give you peace of mind.
