Strong winds and heavy rain can put your roof to the test. After a severe storm moves through San Antonio, some roof damage is easy to spot. Other problems can go unnoticed until the next heavy rain.
Missing shingles, lifted roofing materials, damaged flashing and small openings can eventually allow water into your home.
Here are several things homeowners can safely look for after a storm.
1. Look for Missing or Lifted Shingles
Missing shingles found during a recent Tackett Roofing storm-damage inspection in the San Antonio area.
Strong winds can loosen, lift or completely remove shingles.
Walk around your property and look at your roof from the ground. Pay particular attention to roof edges, ridges and areas around vents or other penetrations.
You may also find pieces of shingles or other roofing materials in your yard.
Even if a shingle hasn’t completely blown off, wind can break its seal and leave it vulnerable to future storms.
If you suspect wind damage, having your roof professionally inspected can help identify problems that may not be visible from the ground. The Texas Department of Insurance also provides helpful information for homeowners about making repairs after a storm.
2. Check Ceilings and Walls for Water Spots
Not every roof leak immediately produces dripping water.
Look inside your home for:
- New ceiling stains
- Discoloration around walls or windows
- Damp drywall
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Musty odors
- Water around attic penetrations
A small water spot after heavy rain shouldn’t be ignored. Finding the source early can help prevent additional damage. If you notice signs of water getting inside, learn more about our roof leak repair services in San Antonio.
3. Look Around the Attic
If your attic is safely accessible, check it after a heavy storm.
Look for wet decking, damp insulation, water stains or areas where daylight is visible.
Remember that the location of water inside the attic isn’t necessarily directly below the roof damage. Water can travel along decking, rafters and other building materials before becoming visible.
4. Take a Look From the Ground
After strong winds, take a look at your roof from the ground. You don’t need to know exactly what every part of your roofing system is called.
Look for anything that appears different than it did before the storm. This might include a vent that looks crooked, loose material, pieces of metal sticking up, or an area of the roof that simply doesn’t look right.
You can also walk around your yard and look for shingles, pieces of roofing material or other debris that may have come off during the storm.
Don’t climb onto the roof to investigate. If you notice something unusual, a professional roof inspection can determine whether anything needs to be repaired.
5. Don’t Forget About Trees and Debris
Branches and flying debris can damage roofing materials during a storm.
Even when there isn’t an obvious hole in the roof, an impact can crack or damage shingles, tile or other roofing components.
If a large branch landed on your roof, it’s a good idea to have the area inspected.
Can Storm Damage in San Antonio Cause Roof Problems Without a Leak?
Yes.
One of the biggest misconceptions about storm damage is that you’ll immediately see water inside your home.
A roof can have missing shingles, lifted shingles, damaged flashing or compromised seals without leaking right away.
That’s why an inspection can be worthwhile after particularly strong winds—even when everything looks normal from the ground.
Should You Climb on Your Roof to Check for Storm Damage?
We don’t recommend it.
Roof surfaces can be slippery after rain, and wind-damaged roofing materials may not be secure. Tile roofs can also be damaged simply by walking in the wrong areas.
Most homeowners can perform an initial visual inspection safely from the ground.
If something doesn’t look right—or you simply want peace of mind—have a roofing professional take a closer look.
What If Your Roof Is Fine?
Then that’s exactly what you should be told.
A storm doesn’t automatically mean your roof needs repairs or replacement.
At Tackett Roofing, we inspect the roof, document what we find and explain our recommendations. If your roof came through the storm without damage, we’ll tell you that too.
Need a Roof Inspection After a San Antonio Storm?
If you’ve noticed missing shingles, a roof leak or possible wind damage, don’t wait for the next heavy rain to find out whether there’s a problem.
Tackett Roofing provides free roof inspections throughout San Antonio and surrounding communities.
You handle life. We’ll Tackett From Here.