In the first three months of 2024, tornadoes touched down in record numbers in Ohio, many causing significant damage. Not only is it unusual to have so many so early in the year—statistics show as many as 19 by the end of March—those that do occur so early in the year are generally weaker tornadoes that do minimal damage. Ohio has seen EF2 and EF3 tornadoes already this year.
With spring just getting started and anticipation of strong summer storms, damage to your home and property is a real possibility. The most vulnerable parts of your home are your roof and your siding, and you should rely on an expert to handle repairs. Here’s what you need to know.
Heavy rain, wind, and hail can damage even a sturdy roof.
Yes, an aging roof will be more vulnerable, but after a strong storm assume even your new roof could have sustained some damage. Take a walk around your home and look for roof shingles and other debris in your yard. You may be able to see missing or loose shingles on your roof and other damage, such as loose or missing fascia or damage to the chimney cap.
Remember, some roof damage can be difficult to see from the ground, and climbing on your roof is risky. Contact a roofing professional such as S & D Improvements to provide a close-up inspection that will identify shingle or metal roof damage that needs repair. This may include:
- Missing shingles or missing granules on shingles
- Loose shingle sections or areas compromised by wind
- Missing or damaged chimney cap or vents
- Loose sealant or flashing around chimneys or in roof valleys
- Damaged drip edges, fascia, gutters or downspouts
- Dents or damaged metal roofing impacted by hail or debris
Storm damaged siding can be hard to see
Like roofing, aging siding will be more vulnerable to wind and hail than new siding, but a severe storm can still take its toll. A walk around your home after a storm may show sections of aluminum siding flapping or broken away sections of vinyl siding. You may also see dents, cracks, or holes from hail. But some damage is not obvious, and even a small gap can leave your home open to seeping water, mold buildup, and rot.
To spot less visible damage, check your siding at different times of day and in different light – dawn versus dusk, filtered sun versus full sun. Also keep the following in mind:
- Depending on siding material, damage may be dents, cracks, or holes. Wood siding is more likely to show warping or cracking and will be vulnerable to mold or rot if not addressed quickly.
- Damage that appears cosmetic should be inspected by a professional, as even a minor crack or gap can allow moisture penetration.
- A siding professional will identify the most vulnerable areas for damage, such as parallel cracks, chipping at corners or edges, and peeling.
If your Akron or Canton area home has been impacted by severe weather, contact the experts at S & D Improvements. We have extensive experience working with insurance companies and repairing storm damage to your roof, siding, and windows.
