How Do I Know If My Roof Has Storm Damage?
- Vita Entrekin
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Every time we get heavy wind in Haddonfield or a strong storm rolls through Cherry Hill, our phone rings the next day.
And it’s usually the same question:
“Do you think my roof has damage?”
The truth is — most homeowners can’t tell from the ground.
But there are signs you can look for.
What Counts as Storm Damage?
In South Jersey, storm damage usually comes from:
High wind
Heavy rain
Hail (less common, but it happens)
Falling tree limbs
Wind-driven debris
It doesn’t take a hurricane to damage a roof. We’ve seen 40–50 mph wind gusts lift shingles.
Signs You May Have Roof Storm Damage
Here’s what to check safely from the ground:
1. Missing Shingles
If you see pieces of shingles in your yard — that’s obvious damage.
But sometimes shingles lift and reseal incorrectly. You won’t see it unless someone gets on the roof.
2. Shingles That Look Crooked or Lifted
After wind events, shingles can break their seal. Even if they don’t blow off, they’re now vulnerable.
3. Granules in Gutters or Driveway
Heavy granule loss after a storm is a red flag. Those granules protect your roof from UV damage.
4. Leaks or Water Stains
Water spots on ceilings or walls after a storm should never be ignored.
If that happens, you likely need immediate evaluation. You can do that through our Book Online page before it spreads.
5. Damaged Flashing Around Chimneys
Wind can loosen flashing around chimneys and roof penetrations.
If you notice water near your fireplace or chimney area, it may require chimney repair — not just shingle work.
What You Should NOT Do
Do not:
Climb on your roof
Try to reseal shingles yourself
Assume no visible damage means you’re fine
A roof is a system. Sometimes the damage is subtle but serious.
Will Insurance Cover Storm Damage?
If the damage is caused by a documented storm event, insurance often covers it.
But it must be:
Verified
Documented properly
Reported within policy timelines
Normal wear and tear is not covered.
That’s why getting a professional inspection matters.
Repair or Full Replacement After a Storm?
It depends on:
Age of the roof
Extent of damage
Number of affected sections
If your roof is already 20+ years old and storm damage impacts multiple slopes, replacement may make more financial sense.
If it’s newer and damage is isolated, repair is usually sufficient.
If you’re unsure, read our complete roof replacement guide for a full breakdown of when replacement becomes the smarter investment.
Why Storm Damage Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Small wind damage can turn into:
Interior leaks
Mold
Rotting decking
Insulation damage
And that gets expensive quickly.
It’s always cheaper to inspect early than repair late.
Final Thoughts
If we just had a heavy storm in South Jersey and you’re unsure about your roof, the safest move is a professional inspection.
We provide honest evaluations — not automatic replacement recommendations.
If your roof is fine, we’ll tell you.
If it needs repair, we’ll show you exactly where and why.
Call (856) 546-4708 to schedule a roof inspection.
Serving Haddonfield, Cherry Hill, and surrounding Camden County communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Storm Roof Damage
1. How can I tell if my roof was damaged in a storm?
Look for missing or lifted shingles, granules in gutters, leaks, or damaged flashing around chimneys. Even subtle damage can cause bigger problems later.
2. Can I safely inspect my roof myself after a storm?
It’s not recommended. Roofs can be slippery or unstable after wind or rain. A professional inspection ensures hidden damage is caught safely.
3. Will homeowners insurance cover storm damage?
Often, yes — if the damage is caused by a documented storm event. Normal wear and tear is not covered. We help homeowners document and navigate insurance claims.
4. Should I repair or replace my roof after storm damage?
It depends on the age of the roof, extent of damage, and number of affected sections. Read our complete roof replacement guide to determine what makes sense for your home.
5. How quickly should I address storm damage?
The sooner, the better. Small damage can worsen quickly, leading to leaks, mold, or structural issues. Schedule an inspection promptly to avoid costly repairs.
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