The short answer
Why You Should Stay Off
After a storm, your roof is likely wet and slick. Even if you have walked on it before, moisture changes everything. A sudden slip can lead to a serious fall, and a fall from a roof can cause injuries that require a hospital visit. The risk is simply not worth it.
Storm debris can hide weak spots. A branch or hail may have damaged shingles or created a soft area that you cannot see from above. Stepping on a hidden weak point can break through the roof deck, sending you through the ceiling below. Let the pros handle the climb.
What You Can Check Safely
You can do a visual check from the ground. Look for missing or displaced shingles, dented gutters, or visible holes. Use binoculars if you have them. Also check inside your home for water stains on ceilings or walls, and place a bucket under any active drip.
If you see a leak, the immediate goal is to stop water from spreading. Move furniture away, put down towels or a tarp, and note the location for later repair. This helps limit water damage while you wait for a professional inspection.
- Look for loose or hanging gutters
- Check for shingles in your yard
- Inspect ceiling stains or damp spots
- Note any sagging areas on the roofline
When to Call the Pros
If you suspect roof damage, contact local water damage pros for an inspection. They have the right ladders, safety gear, and experience to assess the roof safely. They can identify issues like lifted flashing or cracked shingles that you might miss from the ground.
If water has already entered your home, the pros can also help with drying and cleanup. They can set up dehumidifiers to dry out wall cavities and prevent mold from taking hold. Acting within a day or two reduces the chance of secondary damage.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if storm damage is included, and document any visible issues with photos for your records.
What to Do While You Wait
While you wait for the pros, keep yourself and your family safe. Stay away from downed power lines and never touch a wire that is near the roof or ground. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the house and call your gas utility from a neighbor's home.
Take photos of any visible damage from the ground. This includes debris on the roof, sagging areas, and water stains inside. These photos can help the pros understand the situation and can be useful for your insurance claim. Do not attempt to remove heavy debris yourself.
Preventing Future Stress
Once the storm has passed and your roof is repaired, you can take steps to be better prepared for the next one. Keep important documents in a waterproof container and know where your main water shutoff valve is located. If you live in Euless, keep a list of emergency contacts handy.
Regular maintenance, like trimming overhanging branches and cleaning gutters, can reduce storm damage risk. If you notice any loose shingles or worn flashing, address them early. A small repair now can prevent a larger problem later.
- Trim tree branches near your roof
- Clean gutters and downspouts twice a year
- Store a tarp and rope for temporary covers
- Keep a flashlight and batteries in an easy spot
Water damage does not wait
Call (817) 799-6732 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
How long should I wait before going on the roof?
Wait until the roof is completely dry and the pros have inspected it. That could be a day or longer after the storm. Do not rush. A dry roof is safer, but even then, only the pros should walk on it if there is any doubt about its condition.
Can I patch a small leak myself?
You can place a tarp over a small leak from the ground or a ladder, but do not climb onto the roof. Roof work requires safety gear and skill. A temporary patch might not hold, and you could miss underlying damage. Let the pros handle repairs properly.
What if I see a power line on my roof?
Stay far away from the line and any water near it. Call your local electric utility immediately and report the downed line. Do not try to move it or go near the roof. The utility will shut off power if needed, and then the pros can safely assess the roof.