What Should I Do if My Roof is Damaged After a Storm?

Q: How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine. Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms. Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events. Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster. Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below. Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss. Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

Q: How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting. Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling. Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials. Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices. Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here.

Q: Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery , you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

August 15, 2024•3 min read•

EducationResourcesRoof RepairRoof ReplacementStorms

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What Should I Do if My Roof is Damaged After a Storm?

Living in Sarasota, Florida, offers plenty of sunshine, but it also means being ready for the occasional severe storm. These storms can cause significant damage to your roof, putting your home and belongings at risk so what should you do if your roof is damaged after a storm? Knowing what to do right after a storm can help minimize damage and get your roof repaired quickly. Here’s a simple guide to follow if your roof is damaged after a storm.

1. Prioritize Safety

Before checking your roof, make sure it’s safe. Storms can create hazards like downed power lines, debris, and structural damage. Avoid climbing onto your roof—it may be slippery or unstable. Instead, do a visual inspection from the ground or use binoculars to spot visible damage, such as missing shingles, dents, or fallen tree limbs.

2. Document the Damage

Take photos and videos of any damage to your roof and property. This documentation is crucial when filing an insurance claim. Be sure to capture close-up shots of damaged areas and wider shots that show the overall impact of the storm. Note the date, time, and extent of the damage.

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3. Contact Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Share the documentation you’ve gathered and provide any additional information they request. An adjuster will be sent to assess the damage and determine what your policy covers. Knowing your policy details can help speed up the claims process. You can learn more about dealing with insurance claims in our blog post on navigating storm damage claims.

4. Call a Professional Roofing Company

Reach out to a reputable roofing company in Sarasota, like Sonshine Roofing, for a damage assessment and repair estimate. Professional roofers can identify both visible and hidden damage that could affect your roof’s integrity. They can also provide temporary fixes to prevent further damage until permanent repairs are made.

5. Prevent Further Damage

While waiting for professional help, take steps to prevent additional damage to your home. Cover any exposed areas with tarps or plastic sheeting to keep out rain and debris. Secure loose shingles or tiles if you can do so safely, but avoid climbing onto your roof.

6. Get a Thorough Inspection

A comprehensive inspection by a professional roofing company is key to understanding the full extent of the damage. Companies like Sonshine Roofing will check for leaks, weakened structures, and damaged flashing. They’ll provide a detailed report and suggest whether repair or replacement is the best option.

7. Obtain Multiple Estimates

It’s wise to get multiple estimates from different roofing companies to compare prices and services. Ensure that each estimate includes a detailed description of the work, materials to be used, and the timeline for completion. This will help you make an informed decision and choose the company that best fits your needs.

8. Schedule Repairs Quickly

Once you’ve chosen a roofing company, schedule the repairs as soon as possible. Prompt repairs will prevent further damage and restore your home’s safety. Sonshine Roofing offers reliable and efficient service to get your roof back in shape quickly.

9. Keep Records of Repairs

Keep detailed records of all repairs, including invoices, contracts, and communications with the roofing company. These records are useful for future reference and can be valuable if you sell your home or need to file future insurance claims. For more on maintaining your roof, check out our guide to roof care.

10. Prepare for Future Storms

Finally, prepare for future storms. Regular maintenance and inspections by a professional roofing company can help spot potential issues before they become major problems. Make sure your home insurance policy is up-to-date and offers adequate coverage for storm damage. Read our blog on storm-proofing your home for additional tips.

Conclusion

Dealing with roof damage after a storm can be stressful, but following these steps can make the process smoother. By ensuring safety, documenting damage, contacting your insurance company, and working with a trusted roofing company like SonShine Roofing, you can protect your home and restore your roof quickly. Being proactive and prepared will help you navigate the challenges of storm damage and keep your home safe in the future.

General FAQs

Does attic insulation and ventilation really make a difference?

Yes—more than most homeowners realize. Your roof surface can run nearly 100°F hotter than the air on summer days, and attics can hit the high 100s. Without proper insulation and balanced airflow, that heat and moisture can warp beams, fry shingles from beneath, and invite rot. The fix is straightforward: sufficient attic insulation plus soffit intake + ridge exhaust ventilation to move hot, wet air out.

How do the main roofing materials compare in Sarasota’s climate?

Asphalt shingles: Affordable, easy to source, and versatile. Pros: fire/water resistance, low maintenance, ~25-year lifespan. Cons: lighter weight can mean blow-offs in big storms; extreme summer heat can warp/crack; expect occasional repair budgeting.
Clay tile: Classic look, handles heat and salt spray, long-lasting (up to ~50 years). Pros: fire/rot resistance, stays put in wind. Cons: pricey, heavy (may need structural reinforcement), and fragile during handling.
Concrete tile: Popular in Florida and lighter than many expect. Pros: durable (about 50–100 years), low maintenance, fire/water resistance, strong wind performance, color options (can mimic wood/other looks). Cons: somewhat expensive; design options are more limited than premium materials.
Metal roofing: Comes in profiles that resemble shingles/tiles/shakes. Pros: little maintenance, fire/water/insect resistance, stands up to salt spray, reflects heat (can lower cooling bills), up to ~40-year lifespan. Cons: higher upfront cost and more limited design choices.
Slate: Stunning and extremely durable (often 100+ years). Pros: water/rot/fire resistance, high hurricane tolerance. Cons: very heavy (reinforcement likely), fragile to walk on, and the most expensive option here.

What causes roof leaks?

Leaks usually start at weak points—not just during hurricanes. In Florida, extreme heat and UV make materials expand/contract, turning brittle and cracking over time; even asphalt tar can soften and lose its seal.

Aging roof: Heat/UV cycles degrade shingles and seals, opening paths for water.

Flashing failures: Cracked, rusted, or separated metal around chimneys, vents, valleys, and walls.
Missing/damaged shingles: Wind and storms pull or crack shingles, exposing underlayment and decking.
Clogged gutters: Standing water backs up under edges and soaks materials—especially in rainy season.
Skylight leaks: Worn rubber seals or loose skylight flashing let water in at the frame.

Can I see examples of your past work?

Yes. If you browse our Roofing Project Gallery, you will see high-resolution drone videos of our featured projects with links to the materials we used.

How can I extend my roof’s lifespan?

Treat it like preventive medicine.

Keep gutters clean so water doesn’t back up under edges and soak the decking—check especially after storms.
Manage trees: trim back overhangs; big branches are a real hazard in wind events.
Insulate the attic to reduce heat transfer that can stress rafters and age materials faster.
Ventilate the attic (intake at soffits, exhaust at ridge) to dump heat and moisture before they warp wood or cook shingles from below.
Do regular roof cleanups/visual checks for debris, missing/curling shingles, or granule loss.
Schedule professional inspections to catch small issues before they snowball. Sarasota heat + summer storms reward proactive care.

What’s the best roof type for Florida homes?

There isn’t a single winner—it’s about matching material to Sarasota’s heat, humidity, storms, wind, and (for coastal folks) salt spray. Asphalt shingles are budget-friendly and common; concrete and clay tiles bring serious longevity and wind resistance; metal reflects heat and shrugs off salt; slate is gorgeous and ultra-durable but heavy and costly. The “best” choice balances your budget, aesthetics, structural needs, and how exposed your home is to wind and sea air.