When severe weather strikes, your roof often bears the brunt of the impact. Whether it’s heavy rain, hail, strong winds, or even a tornado, stormy weather can cause significant damage to your roof. As a homeowner or business owner, it’s essential to know the steps to take after severe weather hits your roof to minimize further damage and ensure a swift recovery process.

The first step after a storm is to assess the damage. Take a careful look at your roof from the ground, if it’s safe to do so. Look for obvious signs of damage such as missing shingles, dents in metal roofing, or pooling water on flat roofing surfaces. If you suspect any damage but are unsure, it’s best to contact a professional industrial roofing contractor in Chicago, IL, to conduct a thorough inspection.

Once you’ve assessed the damage, it’s crucial to prioritize safety. Avoid going up on the roof yourself, especially if there are still strong winds or the roof is slippery from rain. Instead, wait for the weather to clear or hire a professional roofer who has the necessary safety equipment and expertise to work at heights.

Next, if you have flat roofing, check for any signs of ponding water. Flat roofs are more prone to pooling water, which can lead to leaks and structural damage if not addressed promptly. Use a broom or squeegee to remove any standing water, but be gentle to avoid causing further damage to the roof membrane.

For all types of roofing, it’s essential to document the damage for insurance purposes. Take photographs of the damage from multiple angles, including close-up shots to capture any details. Keep a detailed record of the date and time of the storm, as well as any relevant weather reports or warnings.

Once you’ve documented the damage, contact your insurance company to file a claim. Provide them with all the information and evidence you’ve gathered, including photographs and documentation of the storm. An adjuster will likely need to assess the damage in person before approving any repairs or reimbursements.

While waiting for the insurance claim to process, it’s a good idea to schedule repairs with a reputable industrial roofing contractor in Chicago, IL. Look for a contractor with experience in storm damage repair and flat roofing, if applicable. They can provide you with a detailed estimate and timeline for the repairs, as well as advise you on temporary measures to prevent further damage in the meantime.

Recovering from storm damage to your roof requires prompt action and careful attention to detail. By assessing the damage, prioritizing safety, documenting the damage, filing an insurance claim, and scheduling repairs with a trusted contractor, you can ensure a smooth recovery process and protect your property from further harm.