After you experience a big storm, you may want to first check if you have power or assess yard damage, but don’t forget about your roof and gutters. They take the brunt of the storm, and unnoticed damage can lead to leaks, mold, and costly repairs down the line. Use this post-storm checklist to inspect your roof and gutters safely and thoroughly.

Roof Inspection Checklist

Look for Missing or Damaged Shingles — Heavy winds can crack, curl, or even rip shingles off your roof. Branches and debris can also collide with your roof, tearing shingles or causing roof damage. Missing shingles can lead to small roof leaks, so they need to be replaced as soon as possible. 

Check for Granule Loss — Granules are embedded in shingles to make them fire-resistant, provide color, and protect them from UV rays. If you discover excessive granules in your downspouts or gutters, your shingles could have experienced wear and tear. Bare spots on shingles expose your roof to UV damage and leaks.

Inspect for Dents or Bruising — Hail can leave small but damaging marks on shingles, vents, and flashing. You should also gently press some shingles and look for soft spots, as these could be bruised. 

Scan for Exposed Underlayment or Plywood — If you can see the protective layers under shingles, you will want to make repairs urgently. They can warp, crack, or swell when exposed to moisture, and deteriorate and lose their protective barrier when exposed to UV light. If left unprotected, it can fail and lead to mold growth, structural issues, and leaks. 

Look Around Roof Penetrations — Flashing keeps your roof waterproof — especially around roof penetrations. Chimneys, vents, and skylights are vulnerable to leaks if the material around them gets damaged or dislodged. Look for bent, detached, or corroded flashing after a storm.

Gutter & Downspout Inspection Checklist

Check for Blockages — Debris from trees can clog gutters and downspouts, causing overflow. Make sure water is draining properly and not pooling near your foundation, as this could lead to leaks and cracks in the foundation of your house. 

Look for Sagging or Detached Sections — Heavy rain or wind can pull gutters loose or cause them to sag from storm debris. Look for gaps between the gutter and fascia board.

Look for Dents or Cracks — Hail or falling branches can dent aluminum gutters or crack plastic ones. Damaged gutters can leak water directly onto your siding or foundation.

Examine Seams and Joints — Tight seams keep water flowing away from your home. If you notice water leaking from seams, it may mean the sealant has failed.

Bonus Tips

Use Binoculars — Consider using binoculars to inspect roof damage if you don’t have a ladder or if it’s unsafe to climb a ladder. 

Take Photos – You may want to take photos of the damage if you want to submit any insurance claims. 

Hire a Professional — If you can’t find the damage or can’t see your roof properly, consider hiring a professional to complete a full inspection.

Schedule Gutter Cleaning — If you don’t see any visible damage done to your gutters, but they are still clogged, schedule a gutter cleaning to prevent water seeping out and causing damage to your house. 

How to Protect Your Roof and Gutters Before a Storm

Regular Inspections — Check your roof regularly to make sure there isn’t any damage, such as missing or loose shingles, damaged flashing, or areas of weakness. 

Gutter Cleaning — Ensure your gutters and downspouts are regularly cleaned to prevent clogs and ensure propor drainage during a storm.

Install Gutter Guards — Install gutter guards to prevent clogs from leaves, twigs, and other debris. 

Trim Branches — Overhanging branches can fall onto your roof during a storm and cause damage, so make sure they get trimmed to avoid any issues. 

Roof Coatings — Apply a roof coating as an extra layer of protection against storm damage. If you live in a hail-prone area, consider replacing your roof with impact-resistant shingles. 

Insulation — If you have an attic, make sure you have proper insulation to prevent ice dams from forming, which can damage your roof and gutters during winter storms. Ice cams occur from snow accumulating then freezing. 

Remember to Inspect Your Roof After a Storm

Even if you don’t notice anything amiss at first glance, storm damage can be sneaky. Completing this checklist can help catch issues early — before they turn into costly repairs. When in doubt, call in a roofing professional for a full assessment. Remember to stay safe, stay dry, and keep your roof over your head in good condition.