Storm Damage Roof Restoration: Step-by-Step Recovery
Storms don’t wait for anyone. Whether it’s a midnight hailstorm or a tornado that tears through your neighborhood, the chaos can leave you feeling lost. Roof leaks, missing shingles, broken gutters—these aren’t problems for next week. They’re problems for right now.
At Frakes Roofing, we know what it’s like to wake up to the sound of dripping water or see daylight peeking through your ceiling. Fast action makes all the difference. Here’s how to get your roof—and your peace of mind—back, step by step.
Assessing Storm Roof Damage ⚠️
Storm damage isn’t always obvious. Sometimes it’s a gaping hole. Other times, it’s a tiny crack or a loose shingle that invites water where it shouldn’t go. Before you call anyone, take a deep breath and look for these signs:
- Missing or curled shingles
- Dented metal panels
- Cracked or broken tiles
- Granules washed into gutters
- Leaks in the attic or ceiling stains
- Loose gutters or downspouts
Hail and Wind Indicators
Hail leaves a calling card: pockmarks on metal, bruised shingles, and shattered skylights. Wind is sneakier—lifting shingles, tugging at flashing, and snapping gutter brackets. If you see neighbors’ trash cans down the street or tree limbs scattered, your roof might have taken a beating too.
Photo Documentation
Grab your phone and snap clear photos—wide shots and close-ups. Capture:
- Damaged shingles or tiles
- Dented gutters
- Exposed roof decking or insulation
- Water stains inside your home
These photos are your insurance policy when it’s time to file a claim.
Emergency Actions
When your roof is compromised, time matters. Here’s what to do before the pros arrive:
- Stay safe. Don’t climb on the roof if you see wires, loose debris, or if it’s still raining.
- Tarp exposed areas. If safe, cover holes with a tarp to block rain.
- Move valuables. Shift furniture and electronics away from leaks.
- Shut off electricity in affected areas if water is present.
- Document everything. The more detail, the better for insurance.
If you smell gas or see major structural issues, leave and call emergency services immediately.
Restoration Process Overview 🛠️
Restoring a storm-damaged roof is like rebuilding the backbone of your home or business. Here’s how Frakes Roofing handles it:
- Inspection: We start with a thorough, boots-on-the-ground check—inside and out. We look for hidden issues in the attic, check chimney flashing, skylights, and the health of your gutters.
- Temporary Protection: Emergency tarping or patching keeps you dry while we plan repairs.
- Damage Assessment: We document every shingle, gutter, and flashing issue.
- Repair or Replacement: From metal and tile to flat roofs or shingle, we match materials and follow local building codes (see International Residential Code for standards).
- Ventilation & Insulation: We verify that insulation isn’t wet and attic vents are clear, preventing mold and future rot.
- Clean-Up: Debris, nails, and leftover materials are swept up. Gutters and downspouts are checked and cleared.
- Final Inspection: Before we leave, we double-check everything—including Gutter Repair near you—so you’re storm-ready again.
Navigating Insurance Claims
Dealing with insurance can feel like wrestling a tornado. Here’s how to keep it simple:
- Call your insurer quickly. Report damage as soon as you can.
- Share your photos. The documentation you gathered is gold.
- Get an inspection report. Frakes Roofing provides detailed findings to support your claim.
- Meet with adjusters. We can meet on-site to clarify roofing terms and answer questions.
- Review your policy. Know what’s covered and what’s not—some policies have wind or hail exclusions.
If you aren’t sure, the National Roofing Contractors Association is a helpful resource for understanding standards and expectations.
Preventing Future Damage 🏠
A roof is like a shield. You want it strong before the next storm. Here’s how to stay ready:
- Regular inspections. Schedule roof check-ups, especially after hail or wind events.
- Gutter cleaning and repair. Blocked gutters lead to water backups and rot.
- Sealants and coatings. Consider protective coatings on metal or flat roofs.
- Update flashing. Weak flashing around chimneys or skylights is a common leak culprit.
- Trim trees. Overhanging limbs can break tiles or trap debris.
Frakes Roofing also offers preventative maintenance plans for peace of mind.
Costs & Time Factors
Every roof and storm is different. Here’s what affects your timeline and bill:
- Extent of damage: Replacing a few shingles takes hours. Major structural repairs or full replacements take days to weeks.
- Material type: Metal, tile, and flat roofs each have unique repair needs.
- Weather delays: Rain and wind can pause work for safety.
- Insurance process: Adjuster visits and claim approvals can add days.
While we don’t give quotes here, expect emergency roofing to prioritize safety and structural integrity first.
When It’s an Emergency 🚨
Some damage can wait. Some can’t. Call emergency services and a roofing pro right away if you see:
- Active leaks or flooding inside
- Sagging or cracked ceilings
- Exposed wiring or electrical hazards
- Structural movement (walls, beams shifting)
- Visible fire or gas leaks
Frakes Roofing’s rapid response team is ready 24/7. We act fast—because water doesn’t wait.
FAQ
How fast can you respond after a storm?
Our emergency roofing crews are on call day and night. Most calls get a same-day visit when safety allows.
Do you handle both residential and commercial storm damage?
Yes. From homes to offices, warehouses to schools, we restore all types of roofs—shingle, metal, flat, tile, and more.
What if my insurance denies my claim?
We’ll help you document and understand next steps. Sometimes additional photos or reports can make a difference.
How do I know if my gutters or downspouts are damaged?
Look for sagging, leaks, or pieces on the ground. Gutter Repair near you is just one call away.
Local & Seasonal Considerations 🌪️
Tornadoes in spring. Hurricanes in late summer. Hail at any time. At Frakes Roofing, we’re familiar with the unique challenges each season brings. After major events, local building codes may require upgrades—like impact-resistant shingles or enhanced flashing. If your home or business is in a high-wind or hail-prone area, ask about these options before the next storm.
Severe weather can also overwhelm gutters and downspouts. Regular gutter cleaning and inspection reduce your risk of water backup and foundation damage.
No matter the weather, your roof deserves fast, reliable care. Don’t wait for the next storm to test your luck.
Call Frakes Roofing now — or reach us anytime at 877-550-3398 .