Emergency service
Storm damage roof repair
Storm damage repair starts with stopping water: tarping any openings, then documenting the damage and repairing or replacing what the wind, debris or falling limbs broke. Wind damage often shows up as missing, creased or lifted shingles.
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- Independent local roofers that serve your ZIP
- Photos and a written report for your insurer
- Free to call; the roofer quotes before work starts
Strong wind gets under shingle edges and breaks the seal strip, leaving shingles creased, lifted or gone. Flying debris and falling limbs puncture the roof. Even shingles that look fine from the ground can have broken seals that leak in the next storm.
After a regional storm, contractors get busy fast and storm-chasing crews arrive from out of state. Work with a licensed local contractor, get written estimates, and don't sign an assignment of benefits you don't understand. See filing a roof insurance claim.
Storm Damage Roof Repair at a glance
- What it is
- Storm damage repair starts with stopping water: tarping any openings, then documenting the damage and repairing or replacing what the wind, debris or falling limbs broke.
- Urgency
- Same day. Damage grows by the hour.
- Typical steps
- Secure the roof → Document → Scope and estimate → Repair or replace
- Who does it
- An independent, local roofing contractor
Signs
When you need storm damage roof repair
- Shingles missing, torn or found in the yard
- Creased or lifted shingle tabs
- A tree or large limb on the roof
- Damaged or missing ridge caps
- New leaks after a windstorm
Process
What the crew does
- 1
Secure the roof
Openings are tarped or boarded so rain doesn't make the damage worse.
- 2
Document
The roofer photographs damage and measures the affected areas for your insurer.
- 3
Scope and estimate
A written estimate covers repair versus replacement, decking, underlayment and materials.
- 4
Repair or replace
Damaged sections are rebuilt with matching materials, or the roof is replaced if damage is widespread.
Before and after
What the result can look like
Storm damage
Tree cleared, roof tarped, damage documented for the insurer, then repaired.
Illustrative example using stock photos, not a job by a contractor in our network.
Cost
What affects the price
Every job is scoped on site. These are the factors that move the number.
- Number of squares (100 sq ft areas) damaged
- Whether damaged decking or rafters must be replaced
- Tree removal, usually a separate contractor
- Material matching or discontinued shingles
- Code upgrades your jurisdiction requires on replacement
Before the crew arrives
What you can do, and when to stop
Safe to do
- Photograph damage from the ground and inside the attic
- Keep shingles and debris that fell; the adjuster may want to see them
- Move belongings away from leaks
Stop and call if
- A tree or limb is on the roof or near power lines
- The roof is wet or you'd need to climb onto it
- Water is coming through the ceiling
FAQ
Storm Damage Roof Repair questions
How soon should I report storm damage to my insurer?
As soon as you can. Many policies require prompt notice and set a deadline for filing. Document the damage first and prevent further damage with a tarp.
Should I be wary of door-to-door roofers after a storm?
Be careful. Check that the contractor is licensed where your state requires it, has a local address, carries insurance, and gives a written estimate before you sign anything.
Available in 51 states
Related
Related services
Emergency Roof Tarping
Emergency tarping covers damaged or open areas of a roof with a heavy tarp fastened over the ridge and secured with boards, so rain stays out until permanent repairs are done.
Learn more
Hail Damage Roof Repair
Hail damage shows up as bruises or dents in shingles, loose granules, cracked vents and dented metal.
Learn more
Roof Replacement
Roof replacement removes the old roofing down to the decking, repairs damaged decking, and installs new underlayment, flashing, ventilation and roofing.
Learn moreGuides
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Roof leaking or storm-damaged?
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