Did a recent storm just roll through your neighborhood?
If you’re wondering whether your roof took a hit, you’re not alone. After heavy winds, hail, or pounding rain, it’s normal to worry about what’s sitting just above your head. Most homeowners tend to focus on broken windows or scattered branches, but what about your roof?
That’s where real problems can begin. And if you miss the early signs, it can lead to serious damage and expensive repairs.
Let’s break it down in a simple, no-nonsense way. Here’s everything you need to know about storm-damaged roofs, how to spot the warning signs early, and what to do next.
Why You Need to Check for Roof Damage Right After a Storm
A lot of damage happens quietly. It doesn’t always look dramatic from the street. But hidden damage can slowly allow water to seep in, rot the structure, or grow mold behind the walls.
That’s why companies like Gorilla Building and trusted commercial roofing contractors exist: to help folks like you across Central Mississippi get fast, honest repairs before things get worse. Whether you are a homeowner or managing a commercial space, the goal is simple: catch it early and fix it fast.
And here’s the good part: many times, your insurance will cover it. But only if you act quickly and document things properly.
Top Warning Signs of Roof Storm Damage You Can Spot Yourself
Even if you’re not climbing up there with a flashlight, there are things you can check from the ground or inside your home. These signs are usually the first red flags that something’s off.
A. Missing or Lifted Shingles
After strong winds or hail, shingles can go flying or loosen just enough to let water in. Even a few missing ones can cause leaks later.
- Look for: Bare patches, shingles on the ground, or uneven rows on your roof.
B. Shingle Granules in Gutters or Driveway
Ever seen black, sandy stuff in your gutters or at the end of your downspouts? That’s not just dirt, it’s your shingles breaking down. Hail or high winds can knock off the protective granules, exposing the roof underneath.
- Look for: Build-up of gritty material in gutters or discoloration on roof slopes.
C. Dented Flashing or Bent Vents
Flashing is the thin metal around chimneys and roof edges. When it’s dented or peeled up by hail or wind, it opens a pathway for water.
- Look for: Bent or pulled-back flashing, or rust spots forming around vents.
D. Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls
This is a big one. If you see brownish stains on your ceiling or walls, especially after a storm, it’s a strong sign you’ve got a roof leak.
- Look for: Wet patches, peeling paint, or bubbled drywall in upstairs rooms or the attic.
E. A. Sudden Spike in Utility Bills
Strange, right? But if your roof is damaged, it may be leaking cool air in summer or warm air in winter, causing your HVAC system to work overtime.
- Look for: A jump in electric or gas bills the month after a major storm.
Interior Signs Most Homeowners Overlook
Sometimes roof damage shows up inside your home before it’s obvious outside. Here are some often-missed symptoms:
- Musty odors are coming from the attic
- Mold growth on ceilings or upper walls
- Soft or sagging spots on the ceiling
- Light shining through attic rafters
Don’t just treat these like random house quirks. They’re all signs that water is finding its way in.
What About Flat or Metal Roofs?
If you own a commercial building or modern home with a flat or metal roof, the damage may look different:
- Ponding water: If rainwater isn’t draining, it can weaken the surface
- Dents or dings in panels: Especially common after hailstorms
- Loose seams: Can eventually lead to full panel blow-offs
Even small issues on these types of roofs need fast attention, as they spread quickly and repairs can be more complex if delayed.
Real-Life Example: Gorilla Building Client in Madison, MS
One of our clients in Madison noticed a small ceiling stain in her upstairs guest bedroom after a summer storm. She thought it was minor and let it go for a month.
By the time she called Gorilla Building, we discovered a chain reaction: hail damage had cracked her shingles, flashing had peeled up near her chimney, and water had been pooling beneath the attic insulation. What could’ve been a $500 repair turned into a full section replacement and an insurance claim worth over $10,000.
The lesson? Don’t wait.
Do You Need a Storm Damage Roof Inspection?
Yes, especially if:
- You’ve experienced hail or wind over 50 mph in the last few weeks
- You see visible signs like those listed above
- Your neighbors are getting repairs or replacements
- It’s been more than 6 months since your last inspection
The inspection process with Gorilla Building is straightforward:
- We arrive on time and assess damage safely from the roof and attic
- We document everything with clear photos and measurements
- We guide you through what to report to your insurer
- If needed, we help with repairs right away
Insurance Claim Tips for Storm-Damaged Roofs
If you’ve got roof damage, you’re probably thinking: “Will my insurance cover this?”
The answer is: usually yes. But you need good records.
Here’s what you can do:
- Take photos of the damage before doing anything else
- Keep a list of dates: when the storm hit, when you saw damage, when you contacted help
- Save receipts from temporary fixes (like tarping a roof or drying out water inside)
- Get a professional report from a company like Gorilla Building
Insurance companies respect detailed, organized claims. When you hand them a full inspection report with photos and cost estimates, they listen.
Practical Advice You Can Use Right Now
Here are five easy steps you can take today if you suspect storm damage:
- Walk around your home: Take clear photos from ground level, of the roof, siding, vents, and yard
- Check your attic or upper floor: Look for leaks, wet spots, or smells
- Review weather alerts: Track the date of the storm and its intensity
- Ask your neighbors: If they’re filing claims, you probably should too
- Call Gorilla Building for a free inspection: We’ll take it from there
Don’t Wait-Act Before It’s Too Late
The truth is, you don’t need to be an expert to know when something’s wrong. A simple stain, a missing shingle, or a dented vent is enough to raise a red flag.
The good news? You don’t have to figure it all out on your own.
At Gorilla Building, we help people just like you in Central Mississippi get their roofs repaired fast, right, and without hassle. We’re known for honest inspections, working with your insurance provider, and keeping costs under control.
If you’ve had recent storms in your area, or you’re unsure what your roof’s been through, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Common Questions from Homeowners Like You
Q: How soon after a storm should I inspect my roof?
Ideally, within 24–72 hours. This gives you time to spot the damage before it worsens or is covered up by debris.
Q: Can I inspect it myself?
Yes, you can do a visual check from the ground or in the attic. But always let a professional do the actual rooftop inspection to avoid accidents.
Q: What kind of storms usually damage roofs the most?
Hail, wind over 45–50 mph, and tornadoes are the most common causes in Mississippi. Even light storms can do damage over time if your roof is already aged.
Q: Should I file a claim even for minor damage?
Yes, because what looks “minor” now could turn into mold, wood rot, or full replacement later. Claims are often valid for up to a year after the storm.