Living in Ann Arbor means dealing with unpredictable weather that turns severe in the blink of an eye. Extreme weather can cause damage that will worsen over time, if left untreated or undiagnosed.
Below, you’ll learn ways to identify damage from storms, and how to file a claim with your insurance company. Using an expert company, like Mighty Dog Roofing, can make the process simple and easy, so you know your home is protected, and in good hands.
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Common Types of Roof and Siding Damage From Storms
Weather can get severe in Ann Arbor, and homeowners often face a barrage of elements that cause multiple types of damage after a storm.
High winds can lift shingles right off a roof or tear entire sections of siding away. Hail can dent metal and crack existing shingles and ice buildup can cause water to back up under roofing materials, leading to leaks and interior wall stains.
Excessive hail and rain damage can also cause panels to warp or break the seals around your windows. The accumulated moisture will then weaken all the structural materials inside your home.
It’s important to mitigate the damage as soon as possible after a storm.
What Are the Signs of Storm or Snow Damage on a Roof or Siding?
One of the most obvious signs is pieces of your roof or siding on the ground around your home. Gutters may become detached and lost, which should be fairly easy to spot. Also, the roof itself may have missing shingles or curled shingles still attached.
After snow or ice storms, watch for icicles or heavy snow accumulation that adds stress to the structure.
Inside your home, water stains will appear either on the ceiling or on the walls themselves. Also, check around your windows and door frames for drafts by pressing the back of your hand against the seals.
Some damage, like hail impact marks or small punctures in siding, may not be as noticeable. A professional roof inspection is your best bet to uncover any hidden problems before they grow.
How to Safely Inspect Your Home for Damage
After a storm passes, your safety comes first. Do not climb onto the roof yourself because the wet or icy surfaces can be slippery and unstable.
Instead, do a visual inspection by walking around your home and taking clear photos or videos of any visible damage from the ground. You can also go into your attic to check for leaks or damp insulation.
If you’ve experienced fallen tree branches or debris on your roof, contact a professional right away. Attempting to remove large debris without proper equipment can cause injury or make the damage worse.
Might Dog Roofing provide free inspections to assess the full scope of storm impact safely and accurately.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Storm Hits My Home?
Once it’s safe to go outside and the winds from bad weather have died down, your first job is to document as much as possible.
Take photos of all the potential damage from your roof, sliding, and any surrounding property. Making small, temporary fixes is acceptable and won’t affect future insurance claims. This can include covering broken windows or using a tarp to block leaks.
Then, contact a local roofing expert to schedule an inspection. You’ll want to do this as quickly as possible because not only can you file a claim faster, but your repairs will be more immediate before the damage spreads.
Mighty Dog Roofing works directly with your insurance provider to simplify the process and protect your home.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Storm Damage Roof Repairs?
Most homeowners' insurance policies cover roof and siding installation and repairs from storms, hail, wind, and falling debris.
The key is to know the damage resulted from a covered event, not from general wear and tear. Detailed inspection reports and photos will support your claim and help insurance companies understand the extent of the damage.
Professionals like Mighty Dog Roofing have the experience and know exactly what insurance companies need to see to properly document storm damage.
We’ll help you navigate the entire process seamlessly, from communicating with adjusters and following through with the insurance process. Our support can save you time and remove any unnecessary stress during an already challenging situation.
How Soon Should Storm or Snow Damage Be Repaired?
Storm or snow damage needs to be repaired as soon as possible. If you wait too long, minor roof leaks or siding cracks will lead to significant issues and cause structural damage to your home.
Something as small as moisture intrusion can cause mold, rot, and insulation issues that will raise your energy costs and become significantly more expensive to repair.
Completing the repairs the right way will strengthen your home’s exterior and help prevent further damage from upcoming storms.
Why Professional Inspection and Repair Matter
Hiring a professional will ensure that every issue is identified and repaired properly. Trained experts have the tools to spot hidden leaks or structural issues that aren’t visible to the untrained eye.
Professionals also use materials that already meet Michigan’s weather standards, which offer long-lasting protection.
It’s best to leave the work to an experienced team like Mighty Dog Roofing to ensure roof and siding damage is restored to pre-storm conditions.
Ann Arbor Homeowners Trust Mighty Dog Roofing
When the next storm hits, you don’t want to find out the hard way that your home has experienced roof or siding damage. At Might Dog Roofing, every repair project is handled with care, precision, and clear communication.
Schedule a professional inspection with Mighty Dog Roofing in Ann Arbor today to restore your peace of mind knowing your home is protected by experts who care.