Severe storms are a common occurrence in Northeast Ohio, and they can cause significant damage to your roof, siding, and gutters. After a storm, it's important to take quick action to assess the damage and begin the recovery process. Knowing how to handle roof damage efficiently can save you money and prevent further issues. This guide will walk you through the steps to take after a storm in Northeast Ohio, including when to call an expert, how to navigate the insurance process, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you need a simple roof leak repair or a full roof replacement for your asphalt shingle roofs, this article will help you make informed decisions.

1. Assess the Situation Safely

A couple inspecting their home for storm damage in Northeast Ohio, assessing the condition of their roof after a severe weather event.

The first step after a storm is to ensure your safety. If you notice obvious signs of structural damage, such as fallen trees, sagging rooflines, or debris on the roof, do not attempt to inspect the roof yourself. Instead, stay inside and call a professional roofing contractor in Northeast Ohio to conduct the inspection. Severe weather in the region can bring down trees or large branches, posing a serious risk to your safety.

If the damage doesn't appear severe, you can check your roof from the ground using binoculars. Look for visible signs such as missing shingles, large dents, or leaks in your gutters. Avoid climbing ladders or getting on the roof until you've contacted a professional who can perform a thorough inspection, possibly using thermal imaging cameras to detect hidden damage.

2. Document the Damage

Woman taking photos of her home in Northeast Ohio to document storm damage, preparing for insurance claims and roof repairs.

Before you begin the repair process, it's essential to document the damage for insurance purposes. Take detailed photos or videos of the roof, siding, and any other affected areas. Include close-ups of missing shingles, dents, broken gutters, or signs of wind damage. Make sure the photos are clear and provide a full view of the damage to help your insurance company assess the claim and determine if you need gutter repairs, flashing repairs, or more extensive work.

3. Call a Roofing Expert for an Inspection

Homeowner shaking hands with a roofing contractor in Northeast Ohio after storm damage, finalizing the agreement for roof repairs or replacement.

After documenting the damage, it's time to call a local roofing contractor in Northeast Ohio. A roofing expert will assess the damage and provide you with a detailed inspection report. This report is essential for understanding the full extent of the damage and will help you make informed decisions regarding repairs or potential roof replacement.

When choosing a roofing contractor, ensure they are experienced with storm restoration and work directly with insurance companies. A reputable roofer will help you navigate the claims process and may even advocate on your behalf if there are discrepancies between the insurance adjuster's estimate and the actual repair needs. Many companies offer a free roof inspection, which can be helpful in determining the extent of the damage.

4. Contact Your Insurance Company

Person writing and making a call to schedule roof repairs after storm damage in Northeast Ohio, taking the necessary steps to address roof issues.

Once you've documented the damage and found a roofer experienced in the storm restoration industry, contact your homeowner's insurance company to report the claim. Insurance policies typically cover roof damage caused by storms, including hail damage roof repair, but it's important to understand the specifics of your coverage. Some policies may have exclusions or limitations based on the type of storm or the age of your roof.

When you call your insurance company, be prepared to provide the following information:

A detailed description of the damage.
Photos or videos of the roof and affected areas.
The date and time of the storm.
Your contact information and policy number.

Your insurance company may assign an adjuster to inspect the damage and estimate repair costs. Keep in mind that the insurance adjuster's assessment may not always cover the full cost of repairs, especially if there are discrepancies between the adjuster's estimate and the actual damage. This is where insurance claims assistance from a professional roofing contractor can be invaluable.

5. Make Temporary Repairs if Necessary

Roofing professional assessing a roof for storm damage in Northeast Ohio, inspecting shingles, flashing, and other materials for signs of wear or damage.

If your roof is leaking or there are exposed areas vulnerable to further damage, it's important to make temporary repairs while waiting for the full restoration. Cover any holes with a tarp to prevent water from entering your home, a process known as roof tarping. Be sure to use heavy-duty tarps and secure them tightly to prevent them from blowing away in the wind. For immediate issues, many roofing companies offer 24/7 emergency contact and emergency leak patching services.

Temporary repairs can help minimize the risk of further interior damage, but be sure to contact a professional for permanent fixes as soon as possible. This may include shingle replacement, roof leak repair, or addressing ice dam damage in colder months.

6. Beware of Common Pitfalls

Person signing a stop order for roof repairs in Northeast Ohio, indicating the pause of work before further assessment or decisions after storm damage

While navigating the storm damage repair process, there are several common pitfalls homeowners should avoid:

Avoiding a Professional Inspection: Trying to DIY the inspection or neglecting to hire a professional can lead to overlooking hidden damage, resulting in more expensive repairs down the road. Professional inspections, including the use of thermal imaging cameras, can detect issues not visible to the naked eye.
Delaying Repairs: Putting off necessary repairs can lead to more severe issues like water damage, mold growth, or structural damage to your home. Prompt action is crucial, especially for roof leak repair and addressing wind damage.
Choosing the Cheapest Estimate: Opting for the lowest estimate may save you money upfront, but it could result in subpar workmanship and materials. Always prioritize quality over price when selecting a contractor for your residential roofing services.

7. Finalize the Repair Process

Homeowner signing a contract with a roofing contractor in Northeast Ohio to repair storm damage, ensuring professional services and timely repairs.

Once the insurance claim has been processed and you've selected a reputable roofing contractor in Northeast Ohio, it's time to schedule the repairs. Be sure to review the scope of work and timelines with your contractor to ensure that all damage is addressed, including any necessary roof deck repairs or gutter repairs. Once repairs are complete, conduct a final inspection with your contractor to ensure everything is in order.

Conclusion

Smiling couple in Northeast Ohio, happy with their roofing contractor’s storm damage assessment and excited to move forward with repairs on their home.

After a storm, taking the right steps to assess roof damage and handle insurance claims can help prevent costly repairs and further damage to your home. By documenting the damage, working with a trusted roofing contractor in Northeast Ohio, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can ensure that your home is properly restored and protected.

Don't wait—acting quickly after a storm can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Consider scheduling seasonal inspections to catch potential issues early and prevent extensive damage from future storms. Remember, whether you need emergency leak patching, hail damage roof repair, or a complete roof replacement, professional help is just a call away with 24/7 emergency contact services available from many roofing companies in Northeast Ohio.

Handling Storm Damage to Your Roof in Northeast Ohio: A Comprehensive GuidE