When severe storms hit the Wichita area and damage your exterior, it can feel overwhelming. Where do you begin to restore your home after a tree falls on your roof and water makes its way into your house? In 24-48 hours mold can begin to grow, making the way you invest the first 24 hours after a storm vital to your recovery.
You’ll save time and hassles by calling a reputable roofer immediately to have your roof assessed. Some contractors (like us!) are available day and night, so contacting them promptly can get the restoration process started more quickly.
Tips on How to Handle a Roof Emergency after a Storm
Storms can wreak havoc on your exterior. Heavy rain, high winds, hail, snow, and ice can leave your roof in need of emergency repairs in an instant. While you hope for the best, if the worst happens, being prepared for it will lessen the impact (and stress level!) once a storm has done its damage. Here are some tips to keep handy in case your exterior is left vulnerable and harmed in the wake of a severe storm.
1. Assess the Situation Thoroughly
With safety at the forefront of your actions, once the storm has passed, inspect your exterior for damage. Watch out for power lines or exposed wires, and stay away from them for your safety. Look for fallen limbs, water penetration, cracked siding, broken gutters, and anything that may look different than it did before the storm.
2. Take Pictures and Make Detailed Notes of the Damage
Don’t assume you’ll remember the initial look of your house after the storm. Take pictures from a variety of angles and make notes of what you see. Document the damage so you can let your insurance company know exactly what you’re dealing with.
3. Contact a Reputable, Local Roofer
By getting a professional roofer on the scene promptly to assess the situation with their trained, experienced eye, you’re safeguarding your home from more damage and positioning yourself for the best possible outcome at the earliest possible time. When Wichita gets hit with harsh storms and a lot of damage occurs throughout the city, contractors can get inundated with calls for help. The earlier you call a local contractor, the better.
A roofer will typically tarp your roof securely (until it can be repaired or replaced) so you don’t get any additional moisture intrusion in your house. If water has already invaded your home, contact a remediation company to deal with it promptly so you don’t suffer the harmful effects of mold growth.
4. Reach Out to Your Insurance Company
You’ll need to file a claim with your insurance company detailing the damage your home experienced due to the storm. Follow their instructions to the “T” as they deal with claims every day. Write down any specific direction they give you. Fill out any forms they require, and keep them in the loop throughout the restoration journey. Your insurance company will likely have you get estimates for the repair or replacement of your roof and other exterior or interior damage to your house.
5. Beware of Storm Chasers
Note that after a severe storm that causes major damage, storm chasers will arrive from out of town. They may even knock on your door to make their services convenient to you. Beware of high-pressure sales tactics. Don’t fall for their advance! And don’t sign anything, even if they say it’s just consent for them to inspect your roof.
It’s always wise to hire a local contractor for your emergency damage. For your protection, before allowing anyone to check your roof for problems, ask for proof of their state license and insurance, and find out the address of their local office. They should have a physical office you can walk into. This is the place you can find them after the work is done if you need anything.
Protect Your Wichita, Kansas Home with a Durable New Roof
When a severe storm damages your roof, it’s important to take immediate action to prevent further problems. If you need emergency storm repair, at Keeter Roofing & Remodeling, we are available 24/7. Our process is simple—we do a thorough assessment of your roof, siding, and gutters. We determine if you need roof repair or replacement, then you receive an estimate to provide your insurance company when you file a claim. Learn more about our reliable roofing services.
