Storm Damage Roof RepairIn Seattle, WA

Roof storm damage caused by heavy wind, heavy rain, ice, and snow is common for homes in Seattle and throughout the Puget Sound region. Whether your roof is missing shingles, has cracks or holes, or any other storm damage, the roofers at Valentine can fix it. If you live in the Seattle or Puget Sound area, contact us to schedule a roof inspection. If you need an emergency roof repair, call us (206-766-3464).

Common Storms That Damage Roofs in Seattle

Residents of Seattle and the greater Puget Sound region of Washington are no strangers to severe storms capable of causing roof damage. However, even the smallest of storms can cause damage to a roofing system if the quality of installation or roofing materials are below average. Some of the most common types of storms that cause roof damage to homes in the area include:

Wind DamageStorms in the Pacific Northwest can create hurricane-force winds with the ability to knock over trees, throw debris and branches into roofs, and peel up and remove shingles. Even if shingles aren’t visibly curled or cracked following a wind storm, strong winds often cause shingles to loosen which can compromise their protective ability in the future.

Heavy Rain DamageIf your roof is aging or structurally compromised, heavy rain can quickly become a problem. Once a roof has become worn down, it is significantly more susceptible to large leaks, which can cause molding, rotting, pooling, and staining throughout the attic and interior walls. Even if the roof is in good condition, heavy rain will wear down the roof over time.

Ice & Snow DamageIn the winter months, ice and snow can accumulate, adding extra weight to the roofing system, compromising the roof’s ability to properly ventilate, and restricting water runoff by clogging gutters and downspouts. Ice and snow storms can quickly cause damage to old or otherwise poorly installed roofing and gutter systems if not addressed.

Contact Valentine Roofing to learn more about how you can reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for storm damages. Or, sign up for our annual roof maintenance service to keep your roof protected long-term from extreme weather.

Types of Roof Storm Damage

Roof damage from storms can be severe and obvious, or small and discrete. Regardless of the severity of the damage, it’s important to know what storm damage looks like so you can get ahead of repairs before the damage worsens. Some of the most common roof damage caused by storms in the Seattle area include:

  • Dents and impact marks: On metal roofing, dents will be the most noticeable damage after a storm. A metal roof should be built to maintain structural integrity despite mild denting, but if you notice wide-scale or extreme denting your roof may require repairs. Dents and impacts on composite or asphalt roofs can be identified by black spots on the shingles caused by mild granule loss or impact from heavy rain or debris. Mild dents and impact marks are considered lower-end damage, but over time can compound and lead to larger issues.
  • Cracks, tears, and fractures: Extreme weather can cause shingles to crack, tear, or develop fractures. A crack usually consists of a large missing piece of shingle, whereas a fracture is a narrow crack in an otherwise still-in-place shingle. A tear usually happens in the corners of shingles causing it to be easily lifted from light winds, allowing water to penetrate underneath. Both issues significantly compromise your roof’s ability to protect against water by exposing the underlayment.
  • Extreme granule loss: Granule erosion occurs in asphalt roofing and can be easily identified by dark spots where missing granules are exposing the dark underlying asphalt. If you notice large darkening sections, or your shingles have become mostly smooth, they’ve suffered significant granule loss. Large-scale granule loss is a significant issue for a roof, even if it otherwise appears to be in good structural shape. The granules are the first layer of protection for your home against rain, hail, and sun exposure. The more your granules erode, the less protective your shingles become.
  • Weakened sealing strip: A shingle with a damaged or weakened sealing strip can be difficult to identify, but can be a big problem for a roof. When the sealing strip begins to weaken, the entire shingle will become movable and more easily manipulated. This can cause full shingles to be blown off by strong winds and leave the roof vulnerable. If the shingles haven’t yet been moved, you may need a professional to inspect your roof and identify any weakening seals. If you do notice shingles not holding in place, it is critical to contact a professional as soon as possible.

Homeowner’s Insurance Claims for Roof Storm Damage

Your homeowner’s insurance may include coverage for roof repairs and replacements in situations where the damage caused by wind, rain, or other heavy storms is beyond your control. Valentine Roofing provides roof insurance claim assistance for homeowners in Seattle and surrounding areas. 

3 Tips For Homeowners Making Insurance Claims

  • Document the date of the storm and the reported weather conditions in your area.
  • Take pictures from multiple angles of each damaged area of your home.
  • Get your own estimate on the cost of damages. Your insurance company may try to guide you toward their preferred roofing contractor - they may make suggestions, but the contractor you work with is ultimately YOUR decision.

Why Choose Valentine Roofing Logo for storm damage roof repair

Valentine Roofing stands out as the top choice for storm damage roof repairs, thanks to our unwavering dedication to exceeding customer expectations. Our experienced roof repair specialists maintain an exceptional standard in both the workmanship of their repairs and the satisfaction of our customers. Unlike many other roofing contractors in Seattle, we’re committed to making sure your project is completed flawlessly and accurately on the first try.

Roofing contractors serving Western Washington and beyond

Frequently Asked Questions

How big can hail get in Seattle?

Hail in Seattle rarely gets larger than about the size of a pea (about ¼” in diameter). Hail is caused by updrafts. Updraft speeds in the Puget Sound area are generally weak, so hail isn’t able to gain much size before falling.

How long do I have to file an insurance claim for storm damage?

You will typically have a year to file a claim with your homeowners insurance company after your roof has sustained storm damage. It is important to have your roof inspected as quickly as possible after the damage occurs in order to submit an accurate claim.

What’s the average insurance payout for a storm-damaged roof?

The average insurance payout for a storm damage claim on your roof is estimated to be about $12,000. However, coverage will vary depending on your policy and the insurance company you work with.

How quickly should I have my roof repaired after it’s damaged by a storm?

If your roof has sustained damage from a storm, it’s critical to have the roof inspected as quickly as possible to determine the extent of the damage. Even if the surface level damage appears to be minor, your roof may be significantly more vulnerable to water damage or further structural damage if another storm occurs. Once your roof is inspected by a professional, they’ll inform you of the best course of action to keep your roof and your home protected.

How much storm damage can my roof take before it needs to be replaced?

A relatively new, well-built roof should be able to maintain its protective ability and function after suffering surface-level storm damage. An older, more worn-down roof will not be able to handle nearly as much damage before requiring replacement. Regardless of the quality and age of your roof, storm damage will reduce its life expectancy and wear your roof down to a degree. The best way to learn the condition of your roof following a storm is to get a comprehensive, professional roof inspection.

Is there a fee for a repair estimate?

Not with Valentine Roofing. We offer free, fully transparent bids to make the roof repair and replacement process as painless as possible.