Storm Damage And How To Spot It On Your Roof

A Guide To Storm Damage for South Pinellas County Homeowners

Residents in South Pinellas County enjoy the beautiful Florida weather most of the year. However, it also means having to face the threat of hurricanes and tropical storms, as we saw in 2024. After a major storm, your roof is your home’s first line of defense, and even minor damage can quickly escalate into costly repairs if left unchecked. Here’s how you can spot storm damage on your roof and why acting quickly is crucial for Florida homeowners.

What To Do After Every Storm In Florida

Start With A Visual Inspection From The Ground

After a storm passes, it’s tempting to climb up and check your roof—but for safety, begin your inspection from the ground. Look for:

Missing, cracked, or curling shingles: Problems with shingle roofing materials are often visible from your yard or driveway and are a common result of high winds.
Debris and fallen tree limbs: Large branches or debris on the roof can cause punctures or dislodge roofing materials.
Sagging and uneven rooflines: Any visible dips may indicate structural damage beneath the surface.

Check For Visible Signs Inside The Home

Storm damage isn’t always obvious from the outside. Head indoors and inspect:

Ceilings and attic spaces for water stains or discoloration: Brown or yellow spots are signs of leaks and water intrusion.
Sunlight peeking through roof boards in the attic: This indicates holes or missing shingles.
Warped or sagging areas in ceilings: These can signal ongoing water damage and should be addressed immediately.

Look For Subtle Signs

Storm damage isn’t always obvious at first glance. Many problems start small and hidden but can quickly worsen if left unchecked. For homeowners in South Pinellas, recognizing these subtle signs early can save thousands in repairs. Here are key indicators to watch for after a storm:

Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights: Flashing is vulnerable to wind and debris, and compromised flashing can lead to leaks.
Shingle deterioration: Check your gutters for an accumulation of shingle granules, which signals shingle wear after heavy rain or wind.
Bruises and soft spots: Hail can cause soft, spongy areas on your roof that may not be visible but can be felt by gently pressing on shingles.

Consider A Professional Inspection

While these self-checks are helpful, many types of storm damage—especially after hurricanes—are hidden beneath the surface. Florida storms can compromise your roof’s integrity in ways that aren’t visible to the untrained eye. That’s why Drew Roofing strongly recommends scheduling a professional roof inspection after any major storm event.

“Our inspectors will examine your roof’s overall structure, looking for signs of storm damage that may not be visible from the ground. We use advanced detection methods to assess roof integrity after a hurricane and detect hidden issues before they can escalate into costly repairs.”

A professional inspection is also invaluable if you need to file an insurance claim. Detailed documentation from a licensed roofer can help you receive fair compensation and ensure your roof is restored to its pre-storm condition.

What Should I Do If I Find Storm Damage To My Roof?

If you find storm damage on your roof, taking prompt and proper action is critical to protect your home and minimize repair costs. Here’s what Drew Roofing recommends for South Pinellas County homeowners:

Document everything: Take clear photos and videos of all visible damage from multiple angles—both outside and inside your home. For example, taking pictures of water stains on ceilings. This documentation is essential for insurance claims and repair assessments.
Contact roofing contractors in South Pinellas County: Before calling your insurance company, have a trusted South Pinellas roofing contractor like Drew Roofing assess the damage. They can help you determine whether repairs or a full replacement are needed and assist with documentation for the insurance process.
Don’t delay on repairs: Even small leaks or missing shingles can lead to bigger problems, such as mold growth or structural damage, especially in Florida’s humid climate.

Protect Your Home With Drew Roofing

If you suspect storm damage or want peace of mind after severe weather, call Drew Roofing for a thorough, professional inspection. Our experienced team serves St. Petersburg and all of South Pinellas County, helping homeowners protect their most valuable investment. Call Drew Roofing at (727) 522-3739 and schedule a roof inspection today or contact us on our website here. For this 2025 storm season, be prepared to keep your home safe, dry, and storm-ready.