Nature has a way of balancing things out. For instance, our Tampa winters are wonderful, but summers can get a bit hot and sticky. Florida is known as the Sunshine State, but ferocious storms can rip through homes and businesses here.
While our weather is usually gorgeous, it makes sense for everyone to understand how to deal with storms and their aftermath. For instance, it is not uncommon for homes and businesses to sustain roof damage during storms with high winds.
Experts say that even if a storm doesn’t result in heavy rains, it can have high winds that cause significant damage in the blink of an eye. After a thunderstorm, hail storm, hurricane or tornado has dissipated, homeowners and business owners should inspect their roofs (or get a professional) to see if damage has occurred.
“Every thunderstorm has a straight-line burst of wind,” a National Weather Service meteorologist said. And those bursts of wind can rip away or loosen shingles, fascia, exhaust pipes, etc.
The first thing to do, say the folks at Angie’s List, is to check your attic for water damage or leaks. Check, too, for water stains on ceilings and walls. If any of those things are present, you might need roof repairs.
Also look on the grounds around your home or business for debris such as shingles or metal fascia. Inspect the edges of the walls for damage, looking carefully at where the roof meets the wall.
Owners are urged to hire a professional to actually get on the roof for the inspections. If damage is found, it often makes sense to document the damage with photos.
Don’t be surprised if, after filing a claim with your insurance company, the insurer tries to find ways to deny providing coverage. Experienced insurance claim attorneys can help you effectively address this too-common problem.