Has Your Home Weathered A Storm? How To Get Your Roof Back Into Shape
If your roof has been damaged during a storm, you need to take action as quickly as possible. If the storm is still raging, wait until it passes. Once it does, you'll need to go out and assess the damage. Assessing the damage will let you know what needs to be done. It will also help you to prioritize the situation. Once you've assessed the situation, here are four steps you'll need to take to get your roof back into shape.
Hire a Contractor
If your roof sustained damage during a storm, don't try to take care of the repairs on your own. The roofing material might not have been the only thing damaged during the storm.The underlayment and frame may have also been damaged. If that's the case, you're going to need professional repairs. Not only that, a roofing contractor will make sure the job is done correctly, and that you're left with a service warranty.
Secure the Damage
If you're recovering from a storm, you'll need to secure the damage. This is especially important if areas of your roof are exposed to the elements. If that's the case, you'll need to get that area covered immediately. The last thing you want is to add water damage to your list of problems. Unfortunately, that can happen if a rainstorm comes through before you have a chance to get your roof fixed.
Take Pictures of the Area
If your roof was damaged in a storm, take pictures of the area. Pictures will help to document the situation. You might think you only need to take pictures of the actual damage. But, that's not the case. You also need to take pictures of the area around the damage. This is especially important where tree damage is concerned. Pictures will help to document where the tree fell from. Pictures are also important when other storms are expected to come through the area. That way, you can document the sequence, should your roof be damaged by both storms.
File an Insurance Claim
If a raging storm left your home with roof damage, you'll need to file an insurance claim. You'll want to file the claim as soon as possible, especially if the roof damage has made your home unsafe to live in. Your insurance company can help you to secure other living arrangements while your roof is being repaired or replaced. In addition to filing an insurance claim, you should also hire a public adjuster. This step is especially important if your insurance company fights you on the repairs. A public adjuster will help you get the repairs done.