6371 Rolling Mill Place, Springfield, VA 22152

Adelphia Exteriors

Northern VA Roofing, Siding & Window Contractors

When a powerful storm sweeps through Northern Virginia, assessing your home for potential damage is crucial. Even seemingly minor storms have the potential to wreak havoc on your roof, windows, and other vital areas of your house. To ensure your home’s safety, integrity, and longevity, it’s essential to conduct a thorough post-storm inspection.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps of our ultimate storm damage checklist to help you identify and address issues before they escalate.

Storm Damage Checklist

Storm damage can include visible and not easily visible damage, creating serious safety hazards. Implementing these steps can help mitigate further damage, assess your situation, and alert you to hazards that require professional assistance. Above all, exercise extreme caution.

Prioritize Safety

Before beginning your post-storm inspection, safety must be your foremost concern. Some unstable conditions may be easy to see, and others may be hidden. Following the following precautions can help you prioritize safety before a storm:

  • Steer clear of downed power lines, and promptly contact your utility company if you encounter any.
  • If you suspect a gas leak, shut off your main gas line, ventilate your home, and immediately notify your gas company. Only re-enter your home when they confirm it’s safe.
  • While inspecting, remain vigilant for slippery surfaces, broken glass, exposed electrical lines, and other potential hazards.
  • Be cautious when near or entering standing water, and be sure to wear appropriate footwear.

Inspect the Area Surrounding the Home

When preparing for an upcoming storm, inspecting your home’s surrounding area is a critical step in ensuring safety and minimizing potential damage. This process involves a thorough examination of both the home’s exterior and its immediate surroundings. Key aspects to focus on include:

  • Extend your inspection beyond the confines of your house; meticulously examine your entire property.
  • Scrutinize trees, fences, and outdoor furniture for signs of damage or displacement.
  • Scan the ground for roofing materials, such as shingles, and any other objects that may have been dislodged by the storm.

Check the Ceiling and Attic

Checking the ceiling and attic of your home is an essential step in identifying potential storm damage and preventing further issues. This process involves a detailed inspection before and after a storm to ensure the integrity of your home’s upper structure. Key aspects to focus on include:

  • Roof damage isn’t always apparent from the exterior. Look for telltale signs of leaks inside your home.
  • Inspect ceilings for stains or moisture residue, which can indicate roof leaks.
  • Loose or damaged shingles may not be immediately visible but can manifest as leaks inside your home.
  • If you have an attic, thoroughly examine it with a flashlight or enlist the assistance of a qualified roofing contractor.

Inspect Gutters, Vents, and Windows

Check for clogs, breaks, or disconnections in the gutter system or window insulation is essential. Ensure they are securely attached and that water is being effectively diverted away from the foundation. This task is vital for maintaining the integrity and functionality of these essential components. Key areas of focus include:

  • Pay close attention to key roofing components. Thoroughly examine gutters, overhangs, and gable vents for any dents or damage.
  • Inspect windows for cracks, loose weather stripping, ripped screens, or broken glass.

Look for Visible Roof Damage

When inspecting for storm damage, assessing the condition of your roof is paramount. Visible roof damage can be an early indicator of more serious structural issues. Key areas to focus on include:

  • Conduct a comprehensive visual inspection of your roof for any potential damage.
  • Carefully walk around your home and scrutinize the roof’s surface, searching for signs of damage such as curled, cracked, or missing shingles.
  • Document any irregularities with photographs to assist your roofing contractor and insurance company in the claims process.
  • Consider enlisting the services of a professional roofing inspector to detect subtle issues that may worsen over time, potentially leading to significant damage.

Remove Debris

Removing debris after a storm is an essential component of the storm damage checklist, crucial for ensuring safety and beginning the recovery process. This task involves:

  • Storms often leave debris on your property and roof. Even seemingly innocuous branches can cause substantial damage:
  • Swiftly remove any debris to preserve your home’s structural integrity and protect against further damage.
  • Document the debris and its location for insurance purposes. In cases where removal is unsafe or beyond your capability, consider engaging the services of experienced roofing contractors.

Clear Standing Water

Removing clear standing water is a critical step in the storm damage checklist, vital for preventing water damage and ensuring a safe environment. This process includes:

  • Address standing water issues promptly to prevent potential complications:
  • Clogged gutters can lead to water seeping beneath your shingles, causing roof damage.
  • Exercise caution when navigating standing water, and only do so once the power has been turned off.
  • If your home is equipped with a sump pump, activate it to facilitate the removal of standing water.

Check for Hail Damage

After a hailstorm, meticulously inspect your siding and roof for any signs of damage:

  • Examine your roofing shingles and siding for loose granules and marks or dents.
  • Keep in mind that granules serve as protection against water and sun damage.
  • Promptly address compromised shingles to prevent further deterioration.

If you are unsure of the level of safety of your roof, you may need to relocate temporarily. Contact an experienced roofing contractor familiar with the Northern Virginia area, like Adelphia Exteriors, for roof concerns.

Reach Out to Northern Virginia Roof Replacement Specialists

If your Northern Virginia neighborhood has recently endured severe weather, and you have concerns regarding the condition of your roof, don’t hesitate to contact Adelphia Exteriors, your trusted Northern Virginia roofing contractor.

Request a complimentary roof evaluation to ensure your home’s roof’s longevity, safety, and reliability. Our experts are ready to assist you in safeguarding your most valuable investment against the forces of nature. Call (703) 386-7357 or go online to contact Adelphia Exteriors today.