Checking Your Roof After a Tallahassee Storm

Stay safe

Don't climb onto the roof. Keep clear of downed power lines and any tree or limb still resting on the house, and keep children and pets away from debris until it's cleared.

Walk around the house

Look for missing or lifted shingles, bent flashing, loose ridge caps, dented or pulled-away gutters and debris piled in valleys. Binoculars help you see details from the yard.

Check inside

Look at ceilings, especially upstairs and near outside walls, for new stains or drips. A quick look in the attic with a flashlight can show wet decking or insulation.

Hail

Hail is less common than wind here but leaves dark bruises where granules are knocked off, and dents in metal and gutters.

Photograph everything

Take wide and close photos of damage, debris and fallen trees before anything is moved, and note the date of the storm.

Temporary cover

If water is getting in, a roofer can tarp the area. Move belongings away from leaks and catch drips in the meantime.

Check contractors

After major storms, unlicensed crews knock on doors. Verify any roofer's Florida license and get a written quote.

Get help

See storm and wind damage and send a request with your photos.

Gutters tell a story

Piles of granules at the bottom of downspouts after a storm can mean the shingles took a beating, even if they still look fine from the yard. Mention it to the roofer.

Neighbours' trees

Look up at trees on neighbouring lots too. A cracked limb leaning toward your roof is worth raising with your neighbour before the next storm.

More roofing guides

• Trees Over Your Roof: What Tallahassee Homeowners Should Know
• Heat and Your Shingles in North Florida
• Attic Moisture and Roof Leaks
• Taking Roof Photos for Insurance
• Shingles or Metal for a Tallahassee Roof?
• Hiring a Licensed Roofer in Florida