DDRoofing’s Guide to Inspecting Your North Wales Roof Before and After a Storm

Living in North Wales means you’re no stranger to rough weather. With storms rolling in from the coast and high winds sweeping across the landscape, your home’s roof is the first line of defence against the elements. Here at DDRoofing, we’re committed to helping homeowners in North Wales keep their properties safe and secure, especially during storm season. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to check before and after a storm to keep your roof in peak condition.

Before the Storm: Essential Roof Preparation

Inspect Shingles and Tiles

Loose or Missing Shingles: Strong winds can lift and tear away loose shingles, leaving your roof exposed to water damage. Walk around your property and visually check for any that are missing or appear lifted.
Cracked or Broken Tiles: Due to the harsh coastal conditions in North Wales, tiles can wear down over time. Replace any cracked or broken tiles to prevent water from seeping through.

Check Flashing Around Roof Features

Secure Flashing: Flashing is essential for waterproofing areas around chimneys, skylights, and vents. Ensure that it’s firmly in place and free from rust or cracks.
Inspect for Gaps: Any gaps in the flashing can let water seep in during heavy rains, which is common in the North Wales area. Repair any gaps before a storm hits.

Clear and Inspect Gutters and Downspouts

Remove Blockages: North Wales’ trees and plant life often lead to leaves and debris clogging up gutters. Clean them out to prevent water from backing up and overflowing onto your roof.
Ensure Gutters Are Secured: Loose gutters can be torn away by high winds. Check that they are securely attached to the roofline and free of any blockages.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Remove Branches Close to the Roof: High winds can break branches that fall onto the roof, causing damage. Trim back any overhanging branches near the roofline to reduce the risk.
Look for Weak or Dead Trees: If there are any dead or weakened trees near your home, consider having them removed. In a storm, these can topple and cause significant damage.

Inspect the Attic and Roof Interior

Look for Damp or Water Stains: North Wales’ wet climate can lead to leaks in the attic. Check for any water stains or damp areas that might indicate an existing leak.
Assess Insulation and Ventilation: Proper ventilation prevents moisture buildup and reduces mould risk. Ensure your attic is well-ventilated and free from dampness.

After the Storm: Roof Inspection and Immediate Actions

Check for Missing or Damaged Shingles

Look for Shingles on the Ground: After the storm, walk around your property and look for shingles or tiles that may have been blown off. This is a common problem in windy areas like North Wales. We also recommend reviewing the North Wales regional weather MetOffice website for up-to-date information and alerts.
Inspect for Curled or Buckled Shingles: Examine the roof for any shingles that may have curled or buckled during the storm. This can be a sign of water infiltration or wind damage.

Inspect Flashing and Roof Seals

Examine Flashing for Looseness: Storms can dislodge flashing, which is essential for waterproofing. Check areas around chimneys, skylights, and vents to make sure all flashing is intact.
Watch for Leaks: If you see any signs of leaking around roof features or in the attic, it may be due to damaged flashing. Address leaks quickly to prevent water from seeping into the home.

Examine Gutters and Downspouts

Clear Out Debris: Storms often leave gutters full of leaves, branches, and other debris. Clean them out to prevent water buildup.
Inspect for Detached Sections: High winds can pull gutters away from the roof. Make sure all sections are securely fastened and repair any damaged ones.

Inspect Chimneys, Skylights, and Roof Vents

Check Chimney for Cracks: Strong winds can cause structural stress on chimneys. Look for cracks or loose bricks that could worsen over time.
Examine Skylights for Leaks: Skylights can sometimes leak if their seals are damaged. Inspect around the edges for signs of water damage.
Ensure Roof Vents Are Secure: Roof vents help with ventilation, but they can be damaged by wind. Make sure they’re still secure and functioning properly.

Look for Signs of Water Damage Inside the Home

Inspect Ceilings and Walls for Stains: Water stains on your ceilings or walls may indicate a leak. If you see any discolouration, investigate further to locate the source.
Check the Attic for Dampness: Water from roof damage often first shows up in the attic. Check for wet insulation or other signs of moisture and address them promptly to avoid mould growth.

Assess Structural Integrity and Sagging

Check for Roofline Sagging: Severe storms can put stress on your roof’s structure, causing sagging in areas that may not be immediately visible. Look for uneven sections along the roofline.
Inspect Rafters and Trusses in the Attic: If the attic rafters or trusses show signs of cracking or bowing, it may be a sign of structural damage that needs professional assessment.

Remove Any Debris on the Roof

Carefully Remove Fallen Branches: If branches or other debris have landed on your roof, remove them carefully to avoid causing further damage.
Look for Hidden Damage: Sometimes, the impact of debris can cause minor cracks or dents. Inspect the roof closely for any hidden damage that may need attention.

Document Damage for Insurance

Take Photos of Visible Damage: If you notice damage, take photos for insurance purposes. This documentation can be helpful in filing a claim.
Record All Findings: Keep a written record of the damage and any repairs that need to be done. This can be useful for both insurance and for future reference.

Consider a Professional Roof Inspection

Call DDRoofing for an Inspection: If the storm was particularly severe, or if you’re unsure about the extent of damage, call DDRoofing for a professional inspection. Our team is experienced in handling the unique roofing needs of North Wales homes.
Identify Hidden Issues: DDRoofing’s experts can find hidden issues that may not be visible from the ground, ensuring your roof is thoroughly assessed and repaired.

Advice for Storm Damage in North Wales

For homeowners in North Wales, preparing for and responding to storms is a crucial part of roof maintenance. With DDRoofing Emergency Roofers by your side, you can rest assured that your roof is ready to handle the region’s challenging weather conditions. By conducting regular inspections before storms and checking for damage afterwards, you can help protect your home and extend the life of your roof. The BBC North Wales weather resource is also another useful website to visit.

For a professional roof inspection or storm damage repair, contact DDRoofing today. Our team is here to provide the expert care your North Wales home deserves. We provide roofers in Prestatyn, roofers in Bangor, roofers in Wrexham as well as Roofers throughout the North Wales region.

Here’s a list of useful websites for North Wales residents seeking help and support after storm damage, including professional services, government assistance, and community resources:

North Wales Storm Damage Professional Help List

1. North Wales Fire and Rescue Service

Website: https://www.northwalesfire.gov.wales/
Overview: Offers emergency response services, including rescue operations and fire safety. They can provide guidance on safety measures if there’s significant structural damage due to a storm.

2. Natural Resources Wales

Website: https://naturalresources.wales/?lang=en
Overview: Provides updates on severe weather warnings, flood alerts, and advice on environmental risks. They also offer resources on how to prepare for future storms and protect your property from flood damage.

3. Conwy County Borough Council

Website: conwy.gov.uk
Overview: Conwy Council provides local support and information on storm recovery, emergency contacts, waste disposal services for debris, and available grants or assistance for repairs.

4. Denbighshire County Council

Website: denbighshire.gov.uk
Overview: Offers information on local emergency assistance, housing support, and storm recovery resources. Check here for waste and debris collection, emergency contacts, and local assistance programs.

5. Flintshire County Council

Website: flintshire.gov.uk
Overview: Provides information on storm damage assistance, waste management services, emergency repair programs, and community support for Flintshire residents.

6. Wrexham County Borough Council

Website: wrexham.gov.uk
Overview: Offers resources for storm damage response, community support, emergency accommodation, and information on local assistance programs.

7. Citizens Advice North Wales

Website: citizensadvice.org.uk
Overview: Citizens Advice provides free advice on dealing with insurance claims, financial assistance, and legal support after storm damage. They can also help residents navigate any issues with local government assistance.

8. Shelter Cymru

Website: sheltercymru.org.uk
Overview: Shelter Cymru offers support and advice for people dealing with housing issues. They can assist those facing displacement due to storm damage and provide guidance on securing temporary housing.

9. Floodline (Provided by Natural Resources Wales)

Website: check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk
Phone Number: 0345 988 1188
Overview: Offers real-time flood alerts and warnings, as well as information on flood prevention and recovery. This service is invaluable for those living in flood-prone areas of North Wales.

10. The British Red Cross

Website: redcross.org.uk
Overview: Provides emergency response services and community support after natural disasters. They offer resources, emergency shelter, and can help with immediate needs following storm damage.

11. Age Cymru

Website: agecymru.org.uk
Overview: Supports older residents with storm recovery, providing advice on repairs, emergency contacts, and information on financial assistance for vulnerable individuals.

12. TrustMark

Website: trustmark.org.uk
Overview: TrustMark is a government-endorsed quality scheme for finding reputable local contractors. They can help you find qualified roofers, electricians, and builders to repair storm damage to your home.

These resources offer valuable support, from immediate help and safety tips to long-term recovery and repairs. If you need roof repairs or inspections after a storm, don’t hesitate to reach out to DDRoofing. Stay safe and prepared, North Wales!

What Type Of Storm Damage Is Covered By Insurance?

Home insurance typically covers a range of storm-related damages, but it’s essential to understand the specifics of your policy. Here’s an overview of the types of storm damage usually covered by standard home insurance policies in the UK:

Wind Damage

Most insurance policies cover damage caused by high winds, including:

Missing or Damaged Roof Shingles or Tiles: High winds can strip shingles or tiles from your roof, leaving it exposed to water damage.
Fallen Trees or Branches: If high winds cause a tree or large branches to fall on your home, damaging the roof, windows, or structure, this is typically covered.
Damage to Fences and Outbuildings: Some policies include damage to fences, garages, and sheds, but coverage may vary. Check if your policy includes these structures.

Rain and Water Damage

Heavy rain can lead to various types of water damage, which are generally covered if they result from storm conditions, such as:

Roof Leaks Caused by Storm Damage: If your roof is damaged by wind or hail during a storm, resulting in leaks, the resulting water damage inside the home is often covered.
Flooding from Storms: Standard home insurance does not typically cover flooding from rising water or river overflow, but damage from sudden, heavy rainfall may be covered, depending on how the water enters the home. Flooding insurance is usually an optional add-on.
Gutter Overflow: Damage caused by gutters that overflow due to excessive rain can be covered if the storm causes them to fail, though poor maintenance could lead to a denied claim. Learn more about North Wales Gutter, Facia & Soffit repairs with our guides.

Hail Damage

Hailstorms are less common but can be destructive. Insurance policies typically cover hail damage, such as:

Roof and Exterior Damage: Hail can dent or break roof tiles, siding, gutters, and window frames. Damage to the exterior of the home from hail is generally covered.
Window and Skylight Damage: Broken windows or skylights caused by hail are usually included in storm damage coverage.

Lightning Strikes

If a storm involves lightning, your insurance policy should cover damage caused by direct strikes, including:

Fire Damage: If lightning causes a fire in your home, the damage to your property is covered, including fire damage to the roof, walls, and belongings.
Electrical Damage: Lightning can damage your home’s electrical systems, appliances, and electronics. This type of damage is typically covered under storm-related incidents.

Snow and Ice Damage

If snow or ice accumulates on your roof or gutters due to a storm, your policy may cover:

Roof Collapse: Excessive snow or ice buildup can add significant weight, leading to roof collapse. Many policies cover this kind of structural damage.
Ice Dams: When snow melts and refreezes along the edge of the roof, it can cause water to back up under shingles. Resulting water damage is often covered if the ice dam is due to a storm, but coverage may vary depending on maintenance.

Structural Damage from Debris

Storms can lead to flying debris or falling objects that damage your home’s structure. Coverage generally includes:

Broken Windows or Siding: Damage from flying debris, such as tree limbs, signposts, or other objects, is typically covered.
Damage to Doors and Walls: If wind or debris breaks through doors, walls, or other structural components, the repairs are usually covered.

What’s Typically Not Covered

While many storm-related damages are covered, insurance policies often exclude certain situations, including:

Damage Due to Neglect or Poor Maintenance: If the damage was caused or worsened by a lack of maintenance (e.g., clogged gutters or a weakened roof), your claim may be denied.
Flooding from Rising Water or Ground Water: Most home insurance policies do not cover flooding from natural water sources, such as rivers or coastal surges. For flood coverage, you typically need separate flood insurance.
Gradual Wear and Tear: Damage from storms that exacerbate existing wear and tear is often excluded. For example, if your roof is old or poorly maintained, storm damage may not be covered.
Garden Furniture, Landscaping, and Fences (in Some Policies): Although some policies cover outbuildings and fences, others may not, so check if your policy includes these areas.

Tips for Ensuring Coverage After Storm Damage

Document Everything: Take photos or videos of any storm damage to support your claim.
Report Damage Promptly: Notify your insurance provider as soon as possible after the storm.
Keep Up with Maintenance: Regular maintenance on your roof, gutters, and trees can prevent denials due to neglect. This should be carried out by a local slate roofer.
Check Policy Exclusions and Limits: Review your policy for specific exclusions, limitations, or deductibles related to storm damage.
Consider Additional Coverage if Needed: If you live in a flood-prone area, consider adding flood insurance or increasing your storm coverage options.

Storm damage can be stressful, but understanding your insurance coverage can help you be prepared. For North Wales homeowners, DDRoofing is here to assist with storm damage repairs, inspections, and advice on maintenance to help you safeguard your home. If you need professional support after a storm, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Follow our Podcast on Spotify