Signs Your Roof Was Damaged in LastNight’s Storm and What to Do Next
Texas storms don’t hold back—and neither should you when it comes to checking your home for damage afterwards. High winds, hail, and heavy rain can all take a toll on your roof, even if it looks fine from the street. For Austin homeowners, recognizing the early signs of storm damage is crucial. Waiting too long could lead to more serious structural issues, mold growth, or insurance claim complications.
If your home suffered damage last night, here are the signs to look for—and what an experienced roofer in Austin would recommend as your next steps.
1. Missing or Curling Shingles
One of the most obvious signs of wind damage is missing shingles or those that have started to lift or curl at the edges. Shingles are designed to create a watertight seal; even a few missing pieces can expose your underlayment to water intrusion.
After any severe wind event, walk around your home’s perimeter and look for visible gaps or piles of granules near downspouts. If you notice either, it’s time to contact an Austin roofer for a closer inspection.
2. Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls
Leaks aren’t always immediate. Water can slowly seep through damaged flashing or under loosened shingles, taking days or weeks to appear inside. Common signs include:
- Yellow or brown water stains on your ceiling
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Musty smells in your attic or upper floors
A professional roofer in Austin will know how to trace these signs back to their origin and stop the problem before it worsens.
3. Dents in Gutters, Vents, or Flashing
Hail doesn’t always crack shingles—it may instead dent the metal components of your roofing system, like flashing, exhaust caps, or gutters. While these dings might seem cosmetic, they often signal enough impact to warrant further inspection of the shingles around them.
An experienced Austin roofer will check these areas during a storm damage inspection and document all findings for possible insurance claims.
4. Shingle Granules in Your Gutters
Granule loss is a clear indicator that your shingles took a hit. After a hailstorm or prolonged rain, check your gutters and downspouts for piles of small, sand-like particles. These granules protect your shingles from UV damage—once they’re gone, your roof becomes vulnerable to premature ageing and water penetration.
This damage is often overlooked until it’s too late, so a trusted roofer in Austin should evaluate your roof after any major storm.
5. Debris Impact or Tree Damage
If branches, limbs, or entire trees landed on your roof, don’t assume the damage is only where the debris touched down. The impact can cause structural shifts beneath the surface, including cracked decking or compromised rafters.
Call an Austin roofer immediately if:
- A tree made contact with your roof
- You see deep scratches or gouges on the shingles
- There’s visible sagging in any roof section
FAQ: Storm Damage & Next Steps
How soon should I call a roofer after a storm?
As soon as it’s safe. Early inspections help catch issues before they escalate and ensure proper insurance documentation.
Can I check for roof damage myself?
You can perform a ground-level inspection, but avoid climbing the roof. Always rely on a certified roofer for a complete assessment.
Will my homeowner’s insurance cover storm-related repairs?
In many cases, yes—but only with timely and well-documented inspections. A roofer in Austin can help you navigate this process.
What if I don’t see apparent damage?
Not all storm damage is visible right away. Schedule a professional inspection just to be safe.
Take the Next Step: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection Today
Storm damage isn’t always apparent, but ignoring it can cost you. From subtle leaks to major structural issues, the aftermath of last night’s storm might be hiding in plain sight. The best move? Get peace of mind with a full inspection from a qualified roofer in Austin.
Don’t wait for damage to worsen—contact an experienced Austin roofer today and make sure your roof is ready to weather the next storm.
Photo credits: Coworking London
