5 Signs of Storm Damage on Your Roof

If you have trees on your property, you're probably aware of their many benefits. They can boost your property's aesthetic appeal, create privacy, and provide shade to keep your home cooler. Trees can also protect your roof from ultraviolet rays and block wind, minimizing related damage.However, if trees aren't maintained, they can cause damage to your roof. Here are the signs to look for, what to do if a tree falls on your roof, and how to prevent tree damage to your roof in the future.How Nearby Trees Can Damage Your RoofYou're likely aware that the worst damage to a roof can occur when an entire tree falls on your home. This can happen during a severe storm or if an older tree is ill or damaged.However, one tree branch can cause plenty of structural damage, too. Even a small branch falling on or rubbing against your roof can scratch or dent its protective layers, especially if it's laden with snow or ice.And branches aren't the only culprits that can damage your roof. Fallen leaves, nuts, and needles from trees can accumulate, blocking your gutters and roof valleys. This creates an environment that absorbs moisture, leading to moss or mold growth—both of which can reduce your roof's lifespan. Ponding water from this debris can cause leaks over time.Overhanging branches can also create too much shade, exacerbating any moisture issues by making it challenging for your roof to dry. Additionally, branches that touch your roof create easy access for squirrels and other animals, potentially leading to intrusions and damaged roofing components.Signs of Roof DamageTo stop any issues from a tree over the roof from worsening, watch out for signs of roof damage. While a professional inspection can help pinpoint problems by taking a closer look at your roof, you can also perform an inspection from the ground.Look for any cracked, broken, scratched, or curled shingles. Also, note any missing shingles, especially after a windstorm. Check for moss, mold, or an accumulation of debris like leaves and needles. All of these issues can lead to leaks or larger problems down the road, such as structural damage.What to Do If a Tree Falls on Your RoofIf a large branch or entire tree has fallen and damaged your roof or siding, prioritize your safety. If you see any live wires, smell gas, or spot major water leaks, call your utility company right away to shut off your service. Evacuate everyone from your home, and call your insurance company. In most cases, the company will send a professional roofer to evaluate the damage.While you're waiting for the expert to arrive, document the damage by taking photos and video of any areas the fallen tree affected. Once the insurance company has approved your claim, hire a professional to remove the tree and repair the damage.While most homeowners insurance policies cover roof repairs from tree damage, your insurance company might deny your claim if it discovers you failed to do preventive maintenance.How to Prevent Tree Damage to Your RoofProactively addressing tree-related challenges can help you minimize potential roof damage, saving you time and money in the long run.Clear DebrisRemove leaves, twigs, needles, and nuts from your roof and gutters. Installing gutter guards can also help prevent debris from clogging them.Trim BranchesTrim any tree branches that are too close to your roof. Avoid having any part of a tree over the roof—there should be at least 6 feet between your roof and the tips of a tree's branches. If you can't safely trim branches yourself, hire a tree expert.Remove Dangerous TreesIf an arborist determines that more than one-quarter of a tree's limbs need pruning, you might have to cut down the tree before it can fall on your roof. Don't forget to check with local authorities regarding bylaws and protected tree species.Plant Trees at a Safe DistanceIf you're planting new trees, remember they'll grow large over time. So, select species appropriate for your property's size, and plant them about 20 to 30 feet away from your home.Prepare for the Next Storm with Expert HelpAs the saying goes, the best defense is a good offense. Before another storm can threaten the health of your home's roof, take proactive measures to prevent as much damage as possible.For more information about preventing tree damage to your roof, check out GAF storm and hurricane roofing resources. To enlist professional help in repairing roof damage or installing a fortified roofing system, reach out to a GAF-certified roofing contractor* in your area.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.

If you notice missing shingles on your roof, there's no need to panic. Missing shingles aren't an emergency, but you should still act quickly, especially during wet seasons. Your roof is a multilayered system designed to protect your home's structure and finishes from water damage.If you ignore missing shingles, moisture can get into your home, leading to issues such as rot, mold, and costly water damage. Replacing missing shingles quickly can mean the difference between a minor roof repair and a total roof replacement.So, here's how to spot missing shingles and hire a roofer to replace them.How to Spot Missing ShinglesLocating missing shingles, before leaks set in, can save you time, money, and peace of mind. Here are several ways to spot them before they cause bigger issues.Inspect Your Roof from the GroundScope your roof with binoculars for signs of missing shingles. Inspecting your roof from the ground helps prevent shingle damage from walking on the roof and, most importantly, fall-related injuries. Scan your roof from every angle that it's safe to do so, including from streets, sidewalks, and neighbors' yards if you have permission to do so.Check for Shingle ChangesSystematically check each shingle following a horizontal or vertical line. A missing shingle often sticks out as a color change in your shingle pattern. While you're at it, look for shingles that are cracked, curled, or sagging or that aren't aligned with the others. These can all be signs of shingle or roof damage.Review Your Roof for Damage after StormsRoof damage often happens as a result of extreme weather. Once it's safe to be outdoors, visually inspect your roof for damage. You can also survey the ground around your property to spot any shingles that may have blown off.Look Inside Your Home for LeaksCheck inside your home for longer-term signs of missing shingles. Evidence of leaks in your attic or water stains on your interior ceilings or walls can indicate wider-spread water damage in your home. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, have a roofing professional inspect the area (both inside and outside) for damage.Schedule a Professional Roof InspectionThe National Roofing Contractors Association recommends professional-level roof inspections twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. Like routine car maintenance keeps repair costs down, roof inspections can help spot small concerns before they potentially become expensive problems.How to Hire a RooferOnce you spot missing shingles on your roof, the next step is hiring a professional to replace them. Create a list of questions before you call around, so you can find a reliable roofing company that won't cut corners.If you have warranties, you may also want to check whether or not those have any requirements. For example, all GAF roofing shingles and qualifying accessories (the "GAF Products") come with the coverage provided by the GAF Shingle & Accessory Limited Warranty,** and you don't need to do anything at all to get it.How to Prepare for Roofing RepairsThough every contractor is different, confirm certain details before signing any contracts. Here's how you can ensure you and your contractor are on the same page before work begins:Communicate clearly from the start; this will help prevent frustration and unexpected costs.Before making a deposit, be sure you both agree on the quote and job details.Agree on the job's start date, plus a contingency plan if bad weather forces a rain check. Ask your roofer if they'll install a temporary tarp to prevent water damage in the case of a delay.Read your quote carefully. Confirm approximate labor costs and the color, style, and brand of shingles that will be installed.Ask about anticipated material quantities and estimated roofing material costs (like flashing, roofing nails, etc.).Confirm whether the repair job includes cleanup costs and if the roofer will remove any debris.When to Consider a Roof ReplacementLook at the big picture before replacing missing shingles. Consider your roof's age, any warranties on your roof system, the extent of the roof damage (both internally and externally), and whether the missing shingles are an isolated issue. Multiple missing shingles or frequent repairs could be a sign that you need a new roof.Ready to schedule a professional roof inspection? Contact a GAF-certified roofing contractor* to get started.*Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.* *GAF Accessory Products covered under this limited warranty include: GAF Ridge Cap Shingles, GAF Starter Strip Shingles, GAF Leak Barrier Products, GAF Roof Deck Protection Products, and GAF Attic Ventilation Products. For a complete list of qualifying GAF products visit gaf.com/LRS. This limited warranty does not cover low-slope membranes. See gaf.com for a copy of the limited warranties covering those products.

Your roof is a long-term investment that helps protect your family, may improve your home's resale value, and crowns your home's aesthetic so finding a contractor that is qualified is very important. To help you choose a roofing contractor with confidence, here are three qualities to look for.1. Professional Experience and ReputationBefore you hire, do your research. Choose a company based on experience and reputation—not just price. If you decide on price alone, you may not be making the best choice.RecommendationsWord-of-mouth from trusted sources is a great starting place. Ask neighbors, friends, and online community forums for referrals.ResearchVisit the company's website to determine the products and services it offers—as well as the number of years it's been in business. Then, verify the company is licensed and insured.ReviewsNext, read reviews from multiple online platforms to learn about customer experiences. Resources could include Google Reviews, Yelp, Better Business Bureau, and the company's social media pages. While searching, look for info such as ease of interactions, professionalism during installation, cleanup after project completion, and overall satisfaction with the outcome.2. CertificationsFinding a contractor certified by a manufacturer typically indicates that a contractor has met the certification requirements of the manufacturer. For example, contractors certified by GAF must be insured and licensed in states where they operate (if required). GAF also considers factors such as years of roofing experience, credit rating and overall standing with the Better Business Bureau.Higher tiers of certification may be allowed to offer better enhanced warranties on qualifying roofing systems. For example GAF Master Elite® Contractors are entrusted to offer the GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty* on qualifying roofing systems, which provides up to 30 years of misapplication coverage.VerificationVerify contractor certifications whenever possible. For example, the GAF website lets you verify whether a company is certified by GAF by simply entering their phone number or contractor ID.AwardsIn addition to certifications, select contractors may also qualify for manufacturer awards. For example, the highest distinction a GAF Master Elite® contractor can earn is the GAF's President's Club Award. This award indicates that a contractor has demonstrated commitment to installing GAF roofing systems backed by GAF's strongest warranties and dedication to learning about GAF's products and services.3. Operational ApproachAfter identifying several contractors, consider these talking points when interviewing the contractors:ExperienceAsk the contractor whether it has experience installing roofs on the type of roof architecture you have.AvailabilityWhen do you need the project to start, and when can the company actually do the installation? If your roofing needs are urgent (leaks, damage, etc.), make sure they can perform the work in the timeframe you are looking for.EstimateAsk the contractor to provide you with an estimate. As a preliminary step, try using GAF's estimate tool. However, keep in mind that the estimate provided by the tool is non-binding and contractors will provide their own estimates. Review actual estimates from contractors closely to understand what is included. The cheapest option is not always the best. Consider experience, and reputation, too.Payment OptionsAsk your contractor about payment options, including payment and financing options to make sure you choose the best option for you.Starting Your SearchPrioritizing these qualities when looking for a contractor may help you find the right company for the job.Are you ready for a new roof? Find a GAF certified roofing contractor** today.*See GAF Golden Pledge Limited Warranty for complete coverage and restrictions.**Contractors enrolled in GAF certification programs are not employees or agents of GAF, and GAF does not control or otherwise supervise these independent businesses. Contractors may receive benefits, such as loyalty rewards points and discounts on marketing tools from GAF for participating in the program and offering GAF enhanced warranties, which require the use of a minimum amount of GAF products. Your dealings with a Contractor, and any services they provide to you, are subject to the GAF Contractor Terms of Use.