Storm damage guide
Storm damage and your roof: a New Jersey homeowner’s guide
New Jersey gets a little of everything: nor’easters and heavy snow in winter, thunderstorms and the occasional hail in summer, and the remnants of tropical storms in late summer and fall. Superstorm Sandy in 2012 showed how much damage one storm can do. Knowing what to look for, and what to do next, protects both your roof and your insurance claim.
Storm damage by season
Winter brings wind-driven rain, heavy wet snow, and ice dams that force water under shingles. Spring and summer thunderstorms bring sudden gusts, falling limbs, and sometimes hail. Late-summer and fall tropical systems combine long periods of rain with strong wind, which is when weak flashing and older roofs tend to give up. Homes near the Shore see stronger winds; inland neighborhoods with mature trees see more limb damage.
How to check your roof safely after a storm
Stay off the roof. You can learn a lot from the ground and the attic:
- Look for shingles or pieces of shingle in the yard and gutters
- Scan the roof with binoculars for missing, lifted, or creased shingles
- Check gutters, downspouts, and roof vents for dents or damage
- Look for branches resting on the roof or hanging over it
- In the attic, look for wet insulation, damp wood, or light coming through
Trees and your roof
Large trees are a big part of what makes North Jersey neighborhoods beautiful, and the leading cause of serious roof damage in storms. Branches that hang over the roof scrape shingles in the wind, drop debris that clogs gutters, and can fall in a storm. Having a tree service trim overhanging limbs before storm season is one of the best ways to protect your roof.
Working with your insurance company
Many homeowners policies cover sudden damage from wind or falling trees but not damage from age and wear. Read your policy or call your insurer to find out what’s covered and how long you have to file. Take photos of the damage before anything is moved or repaired, keep receipts for emergency tarping and temporary repairs, and get a written estimate that describes the damage and the repair. Most policies also expect you to take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, which is what a tarp is for.
Damage you can’t see yet
Not all storm damage shows up right away. A creased shingle may hold for months before it tears. Water that got in during the storm can soak the decking and insulation without staining a ceiling until much later. If a major storm hit your area, an inspection is worth it even if everything looks fine.
