Hammering hail, heavy rains, and high storm winds take a toll on your roofing, which is why it’s essential to monitor it after bad weather. However, not all problems are obvious at first glance, and many homeowners don’t realize that damage has occurred until there’s already a leak. Here are several less-obvious signs of storm damage and how a roofing contractor can help.

What Are the Subtle Signs of Storm Damage to a Roof?

1. Missing or Damaged Shingles

Rainwater will erode your roof’s underlayment and wood decking once it bypasses the shingles. After a serious storm, see if any shingles were loosened or blown away. Look for cracked shingles or missing flashing panels as well. These route rainwater to gutters and can't do their job if they've been damaged. 

If possible, check for hail damage. Small dents may only seem like a cosmetic problem, but they weaken shingles and could leak to cracking. Climbing on the roof is dangerous, so schedule a roofing contractor for an inspection if you discover shingle damage after a storm.

2. Water Stains

Water leaves behind unsightly brown stains as it penetrates building materials. You may first see it on the underside of your roof’s decking or the attic floor. Over time, it may bleed through ceiling materials or spill down inside walls. 

Water dissolves wood fibers, drywall, and other materials. A roofing contractor will address these leaks before the moisture can weaken these materials and create structural problems.

3. Attic Mold

Leaks are sometimes so small that you don’t see them or the stains left behind by running water. Instead, you may find mold. This allergen forms in musty-smelling colonies on insulation panels and other moist materials in your attic. 

Mold requires water, which means there’s a leak somewhere. From this point of origin, microscopic spores can spread throughout your home in the HVAC system. Roofing contractors know where to identify hard-to-see leaks and will ensure they’re all patched. You can then hire mold remediation professionals to sterilize the attic.

Contact Bulldog Contractors if you’re concerned about leaks or storm damage. This Lakeville, MN, roofing contractor conducts detailed inspections on roofing, windows, siding, and gutters following inclement weather. Winners of the Duro-Last® Century Award, their team will put 100 years of storm damage restoration experience to work to resolve leaks and structural problems. Visit their website to learn more about their services or call (612) 799-8707 to speak with a representative. Find more roofing tips on their Facebook page.