To be able to recognize storm damage, you need to know the kinds to look for. By knowing the types of possible damage, you’ll be better able to identify if they’ve affected your home or other structure.
The primary types of storm damage include hail, wind, impact and water damage. Each of these types of damage can cause significant problems to a structure.
The four types of storm damage
1. Hail damage
Hail damage is the first type of storm damage to talk about. It can affect an entire structure, from the siding to roofing to patio pavers. It can be difficult to identify hail damage, especially on a roof. One good thing to look for is a dark spot on the roof. This could be where the roofing granules have been removed due to impact. Without granules, the roof is prone to cracks and leaks.
2. Wind damage
Wind damage is the next type of damage that can affect you. Wind causes damage when it lifts up the roof and singles. This can cause shingles to crack or break free, leaving holes behind. In severe cases, the entire roof may be lifted and dropped in an unsafe position.
3. Water damage
Water damage affects every part of your home. Water can cause mold and mildew. It can compromise your home’s structural integrity and make it unsafe to live in. Water must be removed quickly to prevent damage.
4. Impact damage
Finally, there is a risk of impact damage during a storm. Impact damage is easier to see, since there are signs of an impact. Fallen trees can indicate that wind speeds were high enough to cause damage. If they fall or have branches break free, they may directly impact your property and cause damage.
With each of these four kinds of damage, it is important that you’re able to get your insurance coverage and to get started on repairs right away. Not being able to start on repairs can mean living in a dangerous environment or having to move out of your home until it’s possible to repair the damage. This is stressful, and it’s not something anyone should have to worry about. You should take steps to file an insurance claim as soon as possible after a storm, so you can get an inspector out to the scene to determine the extent of the damage.