Michigan weather can be unpredictable — sunny one day, and the next, you’re facing heavy rain, hail, or high winds. Storms don’t just cause fallen branches and power outages — they can do serious damage to your roof, often in ways that aren’t immediately visible.
If you’ve recently experienced a storm, here’s how to recognize potential damage and what steps to take to protect your home and your investment.
Common Ways Storms Damage Your Roof
1. Wind Damage
High winds can lift or completely tear off shingles, especially on older roofs or edges where adhesive has weakened. Once shingles are gone, your roof deck is left exposed to the elements.
2. Hail Impact
Hail may not always cause visible holes, but it can bruise or crack shingles, weakening their ability to shed water. Over time, this leads to slow leaks and costly interior damage.
3. Flying Debris
Branches, tree limbs, and airborne debris can puncture roofing materials or block gutters, creating areas where water backs up and seeps under the roof.
4. Heavy Rain and Ice Dams
Prolonged rain can reveal weak spots in your roofing system, especially around flashing or valleys. In winter, ice dams along the roof edge can force melting snow under your shingles, soaking your attic and insulation.
What to Look for After a Storm
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Missing, curled, or cracked shingles
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Granules are collecting in gutters or around the foundation
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Water stains on ceilings or attic beams
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Dents or soft spots on shingles (especially after hail)
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Bent or detached flashing near chimneys or roof edges
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Sagging rooflines or dark patches
Even if everything looks fine from the ground, hidden damage is common, and it often goes unnoticed until it becomes a much bigger problem.
What to Do If You Suspect Roof Damage
1. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Don’t wait. A professional roofer can spot damage that isn’t obvious and recommend whether repairs or a full replacement are needed.
2. Document the Damage
If you’re filing an insurance claim, take photos or videos of any visible damage and keep a record of the date and storm conditions.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Many homeowners’ policies cover storm damage. Having a roofer who understands the claims process can help you navigate it smoothly and maximize your coverage.
4. Don’t Delay Repairs
Even small issues can escalate fast. A single missing shingle or a cracked flashing point can lead to interior leaks, mold, and insulation damage.
We’re Your Local Storm Damage Experts
At Tichenor, Inc., we’ve been helping Michigan homeowners recover from storm damage since 1928. We understand the local climate, the insurance process, and — most importantly — how to protect your home with quality roofing that lasts.
If a storm recently hit your area, let us perform a free roof inspection. There’s no obligation — just honest feedback and expert guidance.