Bent, loose, or broken gutters, downspouts, flashing, or siding are signs that strong wind, hail, or flying debris may have damaged the home’s outer shell. When these parts shift, crack, or pull away, they can leave openings that let rainwater seep behind the exterior and into the walls or roof.  Siding damage can look like dents, splits, lifted panels, holes, or sections that no longer sit flat against the house. Even small gaps can matter, because they can lead to hidden moisture damage, rot, or mold if they are not repaired quickly.

Missing shingles are signs that strong wind, hail, or debris has lifted, torn, or blown away roof covering, leaving bare spots where the underlayment or deck is exposed. These gaps let rainwater reach the roof deck and interior, often requiring a temporary tarp until shingles are replaced to prevent leaks and rot. When wind, hail, or flying debris hits the roof, shingles can be lifted from their adhesive strip, torn at the edges, or completely blown off. 

Interior leaks or stains are signs that water is entering through the roof, walls, windows, or plumbing and commonly appear as yellow or brown water stains on ceilings or walls.  They grow over time and can cause damp or wet spots on paint/plaster, peeling or bubbling paint and wallpaper, musty odors, visible mold or mildew, sagging or warped ceilings and floors, and dripping or running water sounds inside walls or cabinets. Act quickly to avoid worsening damage or mold. 

Any storm-related damage you can see from the ground or around the property is a clear warning sign that your roof may be in serious trouble. This includes branches resting on the roof, broken or missing shingles, dents, punctures, torn flashing, and other debris that has struck the roof surface during the storm. Even if your roof is not leaking yet, visible damage often means the roof was hit hard enough to cause damage that is hidden below the surface, where you cannot see it.