Whenever there is a storm that hits Medford, your home suffers and the first part that is hit is your roof. The primary solution that you require at this moment often involves getting expert help, and that’s where FRS Roof + Gutters can guide you toward the right steps. Storm damages on roofs are mostly in the form of broken shingles, leaks, damaged flashing, uplift by the wind, hail dents, tree impact, and extreme damage to roofs in winter.
These problems may begin with minor ones but end up costing a lot to fix when detected late. Storms are accompanied by wind, water, snow, and debris, and all of these factors affect your roof in a different way. But what is it you should look at? And what makes you know then whether your home has been damaged by the storm roof immediately after bad weather?
Why Storms Destroy Roofs So Easily?
Did you ever wonder why my roof always ends up in storm damage?
It is because it is very easy to combine some of the harmful factors together due to storms.
- High-speed wind
- Heavy rainfall
- Hailstones
- Frozen and snowy weather.
- Falling branches and debris
- Pressure changes
As all these strike on your roof, they cause various types of roof storm damages – and each of these damages influences the longevity of your shingles, underlayment and even the attic structure.
1. Wind Damage | The Most Typical Post Storm Roof Damage
The most common enemy of roofs is wind. Why? And since the wind of force surpasses the lock of your shingles. When this seal is broken, the shingle will not cover the roof anymore.
Signs of Wind Damage
- Lifted shingles
- Missing shingles
- Curling at the edges
- Creased shingles
- Exposed underlayment
- Loose or popped nails
Have you ever seen a shingle in the storm fluttering? And that is where big trouble in roofing starts.
How Does the Wind Cause These Problems?
The shingles are intended to be firmly attached, the bottom line being sturdy but when the wind gets an upper hand on the bottom edge, it forces the shingle upwards. After being lifted, it can never seal back.
| Wind Speed (mph) | Expected Roof Effect | Risk Level |
| 30–40 mph | Loose granules, minor lifting | Low |
| 40–55 mph | Broken tabs, creasing | Medium |
| 55–75 mph | Missing shingles, exposed decking | High |
| 75+ mph | Severe structural damage | Extreme |
Where you find missing shingles, then it implies that water can easily find its way into your house.
2. Rain Damage | Water Is Silent but Dangerous
Rain never breaks your roof at once, but it undermines everything unheard of. Water gets in via cracks, loose shingles and damaged flashing.
Common Rain-Related Damages
- Leaks inside ceilings
- Stains on walls
- Mold in attic
- Rotting wood
- Weakened roof deck
This kind of damage belongs to the category of common roofing terms and damages which are used by professionals.
The greatest issue is that leaks are timely. You may not see water in days or even weeks – when you do, it is too late to notice the damage.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- Do you smell a damp smell in your attic?
- Do you notice paint stains of water?
- Is your insulation wet?
Yes, and it has already rained in your roofing system.
3. Hail Damage | Small Stones, Big Problems
In other states, hail is not common, however, in Massachusetts, the hailstorm can occur in spring and fall. Instances of shingle repair that extend the life of your roof can be immediately caused by hail.
Signs of Hail Damage
- Circular dents on shingles
- Crushed granules
- Exposed asphalt
- Small cracks
- Damaged gutters
So hard the granules fly off your shingles, Hail. The absence of granules causes the UV rays to destroy the shingle more quickly.
Hail Size vs. Typical Roof Damage
| Hail Size | Expected Damage Type | Severity |
| Pea-sized | Minor granule loss | Low |
| Quarter-sized | Shingle surface dents | Medium |
| Golf ball | Broken shingles | High |
| Baseball | Major impact, leaks | Severe |
.
Did you know? Even trivial hail will be able to cancel roofing warranties, provided it is neglected.
4. Tree & Debris Impact | Instant Damage
Are there tall trees that are close to your house? Yes, in case of a storm, the branches may be broken and flung on your roof.
Common Damages from Debris
- Cracked shingles
- Holes in roof
- Broken gutters
- Damaged flashing
- Structural roof collapse
Impact debris normally causes immediate leakages and apparent roofing issues.
Why Trees Are a Bigger Risk Than You Think?
Even minor branches become like sharp objects. They peel off shingles and leave off granules, causing subsequent leaks.
5. Flashing Damage | The Most Overlooked Roof Problem
Flashing can be done around chimneys, skylights and vents to cover the weak areas of your roof.
Water enters instantly when flashing bends, cracks or moves.
Signs Your Flashing Is Damaged
- Water near walls
- Drips near the chimney
- Wet insulation
- Vermeer or wood rotting around skylights.
The storms soften the nails which were used to fasten the flashing and rip apart the waterproofed seal. That causes severe roof storm damages despite the fact that the shingles may appear okay.
6. Gutter Damage | Storms Destroy Drainage Systems
When you are thinking about roof issues, you may not consider gutters, which often constitute the cause of backflow or clogged and broken gutters. In many cases, proper gutter installation is what prevents these problems from happening. When gutters fail, water flows under your shingles rather than safely around the house.
Storm-Related Gutter Issues
- Gutters bent or detached
- Leaf and debris blockages.
- Water overflowing
- Water leaking beneath the roof.
When gutters are not working, the whole home exterior is damaged.
You can learn more about the cost of gutter replacement here.
7. Ice Dams | Major Cause of Roof Winter Damage
Massachusetts is a difficult place to be in winter. The snow melts, slides down the roof and freezes at the edge – forming an ice dam.
Ice Dams Cause:
- Shingles that are backed by water.
- Dripping inside walls
- Wet attic
- Cracked shingles
- Mold growth
The ice dams contribute to roof winter damage that is predominant in older homes.
Why Do Ice Dams Form?
The snow melts with the warm air that is trapped indoors. Freezing of the water is done by cold air outside. The water that is trapped flows into the roof.
Questions to Check
- Are there icicles at the edge of the roof?
- Do the snows remain longer on one side of the roof?
- Is the attic warm?
In case yes, your roof is under high risk.
Siding + Roof Joint Damage from Storm Pressure
The uplift is generated by storm pressure. This pull causes your roof to detach itself off siding.
Typical Issues
- Gaps in joints
- Water infiltration
- Mold around walls
- Damaged drip edge
It is amongst the most misconstrued roofing terms and harms homeowners that hardly have to investigate them.
9. Structural Roof Damage | Rare but Severe
The roof deck and rafters may suffer damage caused by major storms that may cause the roof to sag or collapse.
Signs of Structural Damage
- Sagging roofline
- Cracks inside the attic
- Soft spots on roof surface
- Major leaks
This has to be professionally assisted immediately.
10. Granule Loss | Slow but Serious Damage
The shingles are covered with sand like coating which insulates them against the UV radiations. Storms wash granules away.
Common Signs
- Granules in gutters
- Patchy shingle surface
- Dark spots
- Exposed asphalt
The loss of granules is one of the most neglected kinds of damage to shingles as owners do not realize it so early.
Overview of All the Storm-Known Roof Damages
| Damage Type | Cause | Danger Level | Signs to Look For |
| Wind Damage | High-speed wind | High | Lifted shingles |
| Rain Damage | Heavy rainfall | Medium | Leaks, stains |
| Hail Damage | Falling hailstones | High | Dents, cracks |
| Ice Dams | Winter freezing | High | Roof leaks |
| Flashing Damage | Loose metal flashing | Medium | Chimney leaks |
| Gutter Damage | Debris, rain | Medium | Overflow |
| Tree Impact | Falling branches | High | Holes |
| Structural Damage | Extreme storms | Severe | Sagging roof |
| Granule Loss | Rain, hail | Medium | Bare shingles |
FAQs: Roofing Damage Caused by Storms
1. What types of storms cause the most roof damage?
Wind, hail, heavy rain, and snowstorms are the biggest causes of roofing damage.
2. How do I know if my roof was damaged after a storm?
Check for missing shingles, leaks, dents, or water stains inside your home.
3. Can small hail really damage a roof?
Yes small hail can crack shingles, remove granules, and weaken the roof surface.
4. What should I do immediately after noticing storm damage?
Document the damage, protect your home from leaks, and call a roofing professional.
5. Will my homeowner’s insurance cover storm-related roof damage?
Most policies cover storm damage if the roof wasn’t already worn or neglected.
6. How can I prevent storm damage to my roof?
Regular inspections, timely repairs, and clean gutters greatly reduce storm damage risk.
Final Thoughts
Medford, MA storms may cause numerous roof damages, both minor cracks and significant structural problems. No matter what kind of damage is caused to the roof be it storm roof damage, roof winter damage or even hidden roof storm damages, acting fast will help you save on unnecessary costs spent on repairing the roof.
Watch out for typical shingle damages and do not overlook the initial symptoms of damage roofing issues. A routine inspection and repairs quickly will save your house and prolong the life of your roof.
Need Help Preparing Your Roof for Storm?
Contact FRS Roofing today for expert inspection, insulation upgrades, or professional roof installation in Medford, MA.
Our experienced team ensures your roof stays strong, safe, and ice-free all season long.
Peace of mind starts with preparation to protect your roof before the next storm hits.