When summer storms sweep across Middle Tennessee, they often leave behind more than puddles and fallen branches. The real threat might be sitting silently above your head. Storm roof damage isn’t always obvious, and if left unchecked, it can lead to costly repairs and structural issues.
After one particularly harsh storm in Brentwood, a local homeowner called Undersun Roofing for a minor leak, only to discover waterlogged insulation, granule loss, and a sagging roof deck. The signs were subtle but serious.
To catch roof storm damage before it worsens, look for early warning signs like water stains, mold, or damp insulation in the attic; granules in your gutters; cracked or missing shingles; and hidden issues with flashing or drainage. If you spot any of these, it’s time to call a professional for storm damage roof repair.
Not sure where that leak is coming from? Undersun Roofing can help. Schedule your free inspection today.
Key Takeaways
- Storm roof damage is often hidden and may not show signs until serious problems develop.
- Attic inspections can reveal early warning signs like water stains, mold, damp insulation, or daylight leaks.
- Ground-level clues include shingles in the yard, granule buildup near downspouts, and fallen debris.
- Visual roof checks (from the ground with binoculars) may show cracked, missing, or curled shingles, dents in flashing, and sagging areas.
- Gutters and flashing should be checked for clogging, detachment, or granule deposits, which signal shingle wear.
- Undetected damage can void warranties, increase energy costs, or lead to denied insurance claims if not reported promptly.
- Professional inspections from Undersun Roofing include drone images, insurance-ready reports, and repair guidance.
- Timely storm damage roof repair prevents leaks, mold growth, and expensive structural damage.
Why Storm Roof Damage Is Easy to Miss, But Costly to Ignore
After a thunderstorm, many homeowners look up at their roofline and think, “Looks fine to me.” But that’s the tricky part, storm roof damage often hides beneath the surface.
Granule loss, dented flashing, and slightly lifted shingles aren’t easy to spot from the ground. But over time, those seemingly small problems can let in water, rot roof decking, or allow mold to form in the attic. And in places like Nashville, Franklin, and Brentwood, where hail, heavy rain, and wind are common, it’s not a matter of “if” your roof is impacted, but “when.”
Nashville’s weather makes roof storm damage more than just a cosmetic concern; it’s a long-term threat to your home’s structure and comfort.
What You Need Before Inspecting for Roof Storm Damage
Before you jump into a post-storm roof inspection, it helps to prepare. You don’t need to climb up on your roof; in fact, we recommend you don’t.
Here’s what you should have on hand:
- A flashlight (for attic inspection)
- Binoculars (for safely inspecting from the ground)
- Camera or phone (for documentation)
- Access to your attic (ladder, mask if sensitive to mold)
If you’re unsure whether damage has occurred or if you see any potential red flags, it’s safest to schedule a free professional inspection with a licensed roofing contractor.
4 Key Areas to Check for Hidden Roof Storm Damage
1. Inspect the Attic First
Start where most homeowners don’t: the attic. Many leaks start here before they show up on your ceiling.
Look for:
- Water stains on wood or ceiling boards
- Damp or compressed insulation
- Mold or mildew around joists or near vents
- Sunlight peeking through the roof decking or nails
Even a small amount of moisture can signal a breach in your roof.
2. Walk the Perimeter and Check the Ground
Next, circle your home and look for evidence of roof storm damage that may have fallen or been scattered.
Check for:
- Shingle pieces or entire shingles in your yard
- Accumulated granules near downspouts
- Debris like tree limbs or fallen objects near or on the roof
- Storm winds may lift or tear shingles, and what falls can be your first clue.
3. Examine the Roof’s Surface from the Ground
Using binoculars, examine the roof’s surface for signs of stress:
- Cracked, curled, or missing shingles
- Dents in vents, flashing, or metal edges (from hail)
- Dark streaks or patchy areas, evidence of shingle wear, or water absorption
- Sagging or visibly warped areas
Any of these could require storm damage roof repair even if they haven’t caused a leak, yet.
4. Gutters, Flashing, and Drainage Zones
Water needs clear pathways off your roof. Storms often damage the features that help with that.
Inspect for:
- Clogged or bent gutters
- Loose flashing around chimneys, skylights, or roof edges
- Granules in the gutters are a clear sign of shingle deterioration
Even properly installed roofs can suffer when gutter systems fail after a storm.
The Deeper Costs of Ignoring Storm Roof Damage
Failing to catch hidden damage early doesn’t just risk your home’s comfort; it puts your finances in jeopardy. Wind and hail account for nearly 40% of all homeowner insurance claims.
But here’s the catch: many claims are denied or underpaid if the damage wasn’t identified and reported promptly.
What’s worse:
- Mold remediation can cost $2,000–$6,000+
- Decking or truss replacement may range from $4,000 to $10,000+
- Missed warranty conditions can make you pay out of pocket
At Undersun Roofing, our licensed experts help homeowners not only identify damage but also document it thoroughly for insurance
Our process includes:
- High-resolution photo and drone evidence
- Insurance-compatible reports
- Communication with your adjuster, if needed
Plus, we offer lifetime product warranties and two-year workmanship warranties, so your repairs don’t come with surprises.
Quick Roof Storm Damage Inspection Checklist
Here’s a one-glance guide to what you should check after a storm:
- Water stains or mold in attic
- Loose or missing shingles
- Granules in gutters or on ground
- Dented vents or flashing
- Debris on roof
- Sagging rooflines
- Clogged gutters or broken downspouts
Nashville Roofing FAQs: Storm Damage Edition
Is Storm Damage To Roofs Covered By Insurance In Tennessee?
Yes, most homeowner policies cover storm damage to roofs, but claims must be filed quickly, and proof of damage is essential. We help document everything.
Can I Wait To Repair Small Roof Storm Damage?
No, even minor damage can lead to major repairs later. Water intrusion can cause mold, wood rot, or insulation issues within weeks.
Do I Need A Full Roof Replacement After A Storm?
It depends on the severity and location of the damage. Some areas may need repair, others full replacement. A professional inspection determines the best solution.
What’s Included In A Free Roof Inspection From Undersun Roofing?
Our inspection includes attic checks, exterior review, drone imagery (if needed), and a written summary with repair or replacement recommendations.
Your Storm-Damaged Roof Deserves Immediate Attention
Storms in Middle Tennessee are a fact of life, but storm roof damage doesn’t have to become a nightmare. By acting fast and knowing what to look for, you can prevent leaks, structural issues, and insurance headaches.
At Undersun Roofing, we’re proud to be a locally trusted, woman- and veteran-owned business serving Nashville, Brentwood, Franklin, and beyond. With GAF and Owens Corning certifications, local expertise, and award-winning service, we’re here to protect what matters most, your home.
Don’t wait until damage becomes a disaster. Schedule your free inspection today.
