As a homeowner in Kingstree, SC, you’re likely aware of the area’s occasionally volatile weather. Residents of Kingstree, SC, sometimes face the consequences of floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters. These events result in storm-damaged roofs and building structures.
Santee Roofing offers professional roof repair in Kingstree, SC. Their skilled roofing contractors have extensive experience repairing roofs for homes and businesses. They outlined what you should do about roof damage below.
When to Check for Roof Damage
The Southern states experience diverse weather patterns throughout the year. These patterns often produce unpredictable precipitation levels, high winds, and dry periods. The following weather events can cause moderate to severe roof damage in Kingstree, SC:
- Hail storms: Sometimes, warm and cool temperatures meet and cause severe thunderstorms. These storms may produce hail stones ranging from pea-sized pebbles to golf ball or even baseball-sized stones. Larger stones will cause worse hail damage.
- Windstorms: South Carolina is no stranger to winds from hurricanes and other tropical storms. While Kingstree is inland, the town may still suffer high winds that can lift and tear roofing material away, leading to missing shingles.
- Heavy rains: Heavy, persistent rain storms may follow extensive dry periods. These storms can cause roofs to leak.
- Snowstorms: Although rare, severe snowstorms can occur in Southern regions. An intense blizzard may lead to an ice dam on your roof.
- Tree fall: Trees and heavy limbs may fall under any of the listed circumstances. They can puncture a building’s roof.
Identifying Types of Damage
After a major weather event, you can self-check for various types of roof damage to determine what services you’ll need. Look for the following problems and report them to an experienced roofing contractor:
- Lifted or warped shingles: After strong winds push through your area, roofing shingles may appear lifted at the edges like the pages of a book. They may also seem bent or warped around their borders.
- Missing shingles: When you examine your roof, check for patches that lack shingles. You can also check your property for dislodged shingles.
- Flashing damage: Roof flashing is the material applied where two areas of the roof meet. You can also find it where the roof meets the chimney or other parts of the building. Check for cracks, warps, and rust.
- Noticeable roof leaks: Inspect your attic and ceiling for water stains and damp areas. These issues indicate roof leaks.
- Ice dams: While you can’t examine an icy roof, you can inspect your home for ice dams. These frozen formations can cause your roof to buckle and leak.
- Lost shingle granules: Long dry periods wick moisture from the roofing materials, leading to cracked shingles and loose granules. Heavy rainstorms will wash those granules away. Check your shingles for smooth areas that lack texture.
How to Handle a Storm-Damaged Roof
As you inspect your roof, take photos of noticeable damage if you can do so safely. You can send these photos to your insurance company later. Then, contact an expert roofing company in Kingstree, SC, for a free inspection and service estimate.
The roofing contractor will further inspect your roof for damage you could not safely access. They can handle a storm-damaged roof and work with your insurance company to repair or replace the materials. Sometimes, your roof needs a few simple repairs. Other times, you should explore a total roof replacement.
The repair process should look something like this:
- Perform a self-inspection if you can do so safely.
- Contact your roofing contractor for an in-depth assessment.
- Take photos and document all damage and transactions between you and your contractor.
- Contact your insurance company about coverage for the damage.
- Your contractor should make immediate, temporary repairs to salvage other areas of the building.
- Speak with your roofer to determine the best course of action: repairs or complete roof replacement with greener, more durable materials.
What Happens When You Don’t Take Action
Can’t you wait to schedule roofing services following bad weather? No, you should contact a professional as soon as you can. Most insurance companies have a claim period lasting a day or two following the severe weather event.
Plus, your home could incur further damage that you might not see. Roof leaks lead to mold and structural damage inside. Therefore, property owners should act immediately.
Get a Free Estimate in Kingstree, SC, from Santee Roofing
Consider Santee Roofing when hiring a roofing contractor in Kingstree, SC. Their team specializes in mending storm-damaged roof materials for homes and businesses. Contact the experienced professionals at Santee Roofing for a free estimate on your property.
