Do You Need a Roof Inspection After a Storm? 🤔 Here’s When to Call a Pro

In Georgia, severe weather is part of life. 💨⛈️ From strong wind gusts and heavy rain to hail and falling limbs, your roof takes the hit so your home doesn’t have to.

But after the skies clear, most homeowners move on—without realizing that storm damage isn’t always obvious.

At Finley’s Roofing, we’ve seen how small, unnoticed problems turn into expensive headaches. This guide will help you spot trouble early, understand when to get a roof inspection, and know what to expect from a pro.

🧐 Why Storm Damage Often Goes Unnoticed

Not all damage is dramatic. In fact:

  • ⚠️ It may not show up until months later
  • 🔍 It’s often hidden from view
  • 💸 Waiting too long can cost more in repairs

Something as small as a lifted shingle or cracked flashing can let water creep in—damaging decking, insulation, and ceilings.

A quick, professional inspection can catch those issues before they spread.

✅ When to Schedule a Storm Damage Roof Inspection

💨 1. After High Winds

Winds over 45–50 mph can lift, curl, or remove shingles, even if they look fine from the yard. Ridge caps and flashing are also at risk.

🧊 2. If Hail Was Reported

Even small hailstones (¾”) can:

  • Dent vents and metal components
  • Knock off granules that protect shingles
  • Cause long-term weakening

Don’t assume it’s fine just because you don’t see a leak—hail damage is often invisible from the ground.

🌳 3. If Debris or Tree Limbs Hit the Roof

Even small branches can crack shingles or damage the decking below. If anything hit your roof, have it checked ASAP.

🌧️ 4. After Heavy or Prolonged Rain

A storm can push moisture into any weak points, especially around chimneys, valleys, or poorly sealed vents.

👀 5. If You Notice Any Visible Issues

Curled, missing, or buckled shingles? Water stains inside? Call immediately.

🔎 What a Professional Roofer Checks After a Storm

When you call Finley’s Roofing, here’s what we look for:

🧱 On the Roof:

  • Torn, missing, or lifted shingles
  • Granule loss or bruising (from hail)
  • Damaged flashing
  • Sagging or soft decking
  • Signs of impact from debris

🏠 Around the Home:

  • Clogged or detached gutters
  • Roof debris or shingle pieces in the yard
  • Water pooling near the foundation

🛠️ Inside Your Home:

  • Water stains or bubbling paint on ceilings/walls
  • Mold or musty smells in the attic
  • Wet insulation or visible light through the roof

We’ll also document any damage and walk you through next steps clearly—no pressure, no guesswork.

🧗 Can You Inspect It Yourself?

We don’t recommend it.

Climbing a storm-damaged roof is dangerous. Many DIY inspections miss hidden damage or make things worse.

Let a pro handle it—we know what to look for and how to stay safe doing it.

🏦 Will Insurance Cover Storm Damage?

It can—if it’s properly documented and reported in time. Most policies cover:

  • Roof repairs or full replacements (if damage is confirmed)
  • Interior water damage from roof leaks
  • Broken vents, gutters, or flashing

📌 But beware: Delays in reporting or poor documentation can cause claims to be denied.

We’ll help you gather the info you need and guide you through the process if a claim makes sense.

📅 When Should You Call a Roofer?

Here’s the short version:

  • ✅ Within 1–3 days of a major storm (wind, hail, debris)
  • ✅ Immediately if you notice damage or a leak
  • ✅ Annually if your roof is over 10 years old—whether or not there’s been a storm

🏆 Why Homeowners Trust Finley’s Roofing

  • 🛠️ 83+ years of local roofing experience
  • 🏅 GAF Master Elite® Certified
  • 💯 A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
  • 🔍 No-pressure inspections, honest guidance
  • 💵 No payment until the job is done—and done right

We don’t just replace roofs. We build trust—one roof at a time.

📞 Think You Might Have Storm Damage? Let’s Take a Look—Free.

Don’t wait until the next storm makes it worse. If you suspect damage—or just want peace of mind—let Finley’s Roofing give your home a thorough, free inspection.

📱 Call 770-262-7375
🌐 Visit finleysroofing.com to schedule now

We’ll help you protect what matters most—before it turns into a bigger problem.