Fall Storm Season in Northeast Alabama: How to Check Your Roof After Heavy Winds

Fall in Northeast Alabama brings crisp weather, but it also ushers in strong winds, heavy rain, and occasional storms that can leave a lasting impact on your home. After severe weather, your roof often takes the brunt of the damage. Even minor issues can worsen over time if left unaddressed, leading to leaks, structural damage, or costly repairs. Knowing what to look for after a storm is crucial to protecting your home.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to assessing your roof after heavy winds and fall storms:

1. Perform a Safe Visual Inspection

Before climbing onto your roof, do a ground-level inspection using binoculars. Look for shingles that are missing, cracked, curled, or lifted. Pay attention to any loose or damaged metal panels, especially if your home has a standing seam or corrugated metal roof.

Also, check for visible signs of wear around roof penetrations like vents, chimneys, and skylights. Even small cracks or gaps can allow water to enter, so noting these early helps prevent more serious problems.

2. Check for Debris and Impact Damage

Storms can leave branches, leaves, and other debris on your roof. Remove any loose debris carefully, as hidden damage may be underneath. Hail or heavy wind can also cause dents or fractures in roofing materials, particularly on metal or tile roofs.

Inspect gutters and downspouts as well. Blocked or bent gutters can trap water, creating pressure on the roof edge and increasing the risk of leaks.

3. Inspect Flashing and Sealants

Flashing and roof sealants are often the first areas to fail during strong winds. Check around chimneys, vents, skylights, and other protrusions for cracks, lifting, or missing sections. Water can seep through even small gaps, especially when combined with heavy rainfall or early-season ice.

4. Look for Signs of Water Intrusion

Inside your home, check the attic, ceilings, and walls for signs of water penetration. Water stains, damp insulation, or mold can indicate roof leaks that aren’t visible from the outside. Early detection prevents long-term damage to your home’s structure and interior finishes.

5. Document Damage for Insurance Claims

After a storm, thorough documentation is essential if you plan to file a roof damage insurance claim. Take clear photos of shingles, gutters, flashing, and any interior signs of water intrusion. Keeping records helps insurance adjusters understand the full scope of damage and streamlines the claims process.

6. Know When to Call a Professional

While minor debris removal and visual inspections are safe for most homeowners, storm damage often requires professional expertise. Roofers can identify hidden issues, replace damaged shingles or panels, and ensure your roof is properly sealed against future storms. Acting quickly reduces the risk of further damage as winter approaches.

Let Experts Take Care of Your Roof After a Wind Storm

Fall storms can happen suddenly, and wind damage can easily go unnoticed until it causes bigger problems. Conducting a thorough inspection after heavy winds is the best way to protect your home and investment. Even small repairs addressed early can save thousands in future roofing expenses.

If you suspect roof damage after a fall storm in Northeast Alabama, a professional assessment is key. Connect with Mountain Valley Roofing & Exteriors today for a free roof inspection and expert storm damage evaluation. If you have any questions about the condition of your roof or our thorough inspection process, please don’t hesitate to ask. We are here to ensure that you feel confident that your roof is in good hands. After the inspection is complete, if you do need any repairs or a roof replacement, our experienced team will walk you through that process and share those services with you.