Roof Damage After a Storm? What to Do Next

Michigan storms can be unpredictable and brutal. One moment, the skies are clear, and the next, your neighborhood is facing heavy rain, strong winds, hail, or even a tornado warning. When the storm passes, homeowners are often left asking: “What now?”

If you suspect your home has suffered roof damage, it’s critical to act quickly but smartly. A damaged roof doesn’t just affect your home’s exterior—it can lead to leaks, structural problems, mold, and higher energy bills if left unaddressed.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to do after a storm, how to spot signs of roof storm damage, and how to work with a local roofing company like Good’s Roofing to get your home back in shape.

Step 1: Stay Safe and Assess the Situation

After a storm, safety is the top priority.

Before inspecting your roof:

• Make sure the storm has fully passed.
• Watch for downed power lines, sharp debris, or damaged tree limbs around your property.
• Don’t climb onto the roof—use binoculars or take photos from the ground if possible.

Even if your roof looks intact from the curb, hidden damage could still be present. That’s why the following steps are so necessary.

Step 2: Look for Signs of Roof Damage

You don’t need to be a roofing expert to spot potential roof damage. Here are common warning signs to look for around your home:

On the Ground:

• Shingles in the yard – Look for loose, curled, or torn pieces.
• Debris accumulation – Branches or leaves in gutters may signal clogged drainage or impact points on your roof.
• Water pooling near the foundation – This can indicate improper runoff due to damaged roofing or gutters.

On the Roof (visible from the ground):

• Missing or shifted shingles – Especially after strong winds.
• Dark spots or bruising – A sign of hail impact that damages shingle granules.
• Exposed underlayment or flashing – Indicates deeper structural exposure.
• Bent or torn flashing – Particularly around chimneys, skylights, or vents.
• Sagging areas – A sign of potential internal water saturation or rot.

Inside the Home:

• Water stains on ceilings or walls
• Dripping or wet insulation in the attic
• Musty smells or visible mold

If you notice any of these issues, you may be dealing with roof damage that requires immediate attention.

Step 3: Document the Damage

Before calling your insurance or starting repairs, take photos or videos of the damage from multiple angles—both inside and outside. Clear documentation helps support your insurance claim and provides a reference for your roofing company.

Be thorough:

• Photograph fallen tree limbs or debris
• Capture images of displaced shingles or exposed roof decking
• Include timestamps if possible

Don’t discard any damaged materials until the insurance company or roofing inspector has inspected them.

Step 4: Call a Trusted Local Roofer for an Inspection

One of the smartest things you can do is call a local roofer—like Good’s Roofing—who understands the types of storms common in Michigan and how they affect different roofing materials.

At Good’s Roofing, we offer storm damage roof inspections throughout Mid-Michigan. Our trained professionals know exactly what to look for, from subtle hail bruising to wind uplift that might not be visible to the untrained eye.

We can:

• Provide a complete damage assessment
• Recommend repair or replacement options
• Help you navigate the insurance claim process
• Offer emergency tarping if needed to prevent further damage

And because we’re local, we’re here when you need us—not just storm-chasing contractors who disappear after a quick job.

Step 5: File an Insurance Claim (If Applicable)

If your homeowner’s insurance covers your roof damage, you’ll want to file a claim as soon as possible. Most policies cover storm roof damage caused by hail, wind, or falling trees.

Here’s how to get started:

1. Contact your insurance company to report the damage.
2. Provide the documentation you collected (photos, video, notes).
3. Schedule a visit from your insurance adjuster.
4. Let your roofer know the adjuster’s scheduled visit—so they can be there to advocate for you.

Many homeowners feel overwhelmed by this process, but a reputable roofing company like Good’s Roofing can guide you every step of the way. We’ll help ensure the damage is fully documented and your claim is filed correctly.

Step 6: Decide on Roof Repair vs. Replacement

Once your roof has been inspected, you’ll need to decide whether a roof repair or full roof replacement is the best path forward. This depends on the extent of the damage, the age of your roof, and your long-term goals.

When Roof Repair Makes Sense:

• Damage is isolated (e.g., a few missing shingles or minor flashing issues)
• The roof is relatively new and in otherwise good condition
• Insurance only covers repair, and it’s structurally sound to do so

When Roof Replacement Is the Smarter Option:

• Damage is widespread or affects multiple areas
• Shingles are brittle or show signs of aging
• You want to upgrade to more durable, storm-resistant materials
• The roof has reached the end of its service life (typically 20–25 years for asphalt shingles)

Good’s Roofing can guide you through the pros and cons of both options, providing transparent pricing, clear choices, and comprehensive warranties. We’re also a GAF Master Elite® Certified Contractor, which means you get access to extended warranties and top-tier installation standards.

Step 7: Choose Quality Materials for a Stronger Roof

Whether you’re repairing or replacing your roof, storm resilience should be a top priority. We offer durable roofing systems designed to withstand Michigan’s wild weather—including wind-resistant shingles, reinforced underlayment, and proper attic ventilation.

We also specialize in:

• GAF roofing systems
• Ice and water shield protection
• Proper flashing and ridge cap installation
• Ventilation solutions that extend your roof’s life

A better roof means fewer problems in the next storm—and greater peace of mind all year round.

Step 8: Think Long-Term With a Local Roofing Partner

After the storm cleanup is done, you want to know your home is protected for the long haul. Working with a local roofer like Good’s Roofing means you’re not just getting a service—you’re gaining a partner who stands behind their work.

We’ve served Michigan homeowners for over 20 years with:

• Timely estimates and fast response after storms
• Licensed, insured, and background-checked crews
• A+ Better Business Bureau rating
• Flexible financing and roof warranty options

Whether it’s a minor roof repair or a full roof replacement, you’ll get honest recommendations, quality materials, and craftsmanship that’s built to last.

Serving All of Mid-Michigan with Roof Storm Damage Help

We proudly serve homeowners across the region, including:

• Flint, MI
• Burton, MI
• Grand Blanc, MI
• Lapeer, MI
• Davison, MI
• Oakland County, MI

No matter where the storm hit, if your roof was affected, we’ll be there.

However, waiting too long to address storm damage can exacerbate a bad situation—leading to water damage, structural issues, and more costly repairs down the line.

If you’re dealing with possible roof damage, take the next step and contact Good’s Roofing. Our team of local roofers is ready to assess the situation, provide reliable solutions, and help restore your home to full protection.

Call Good’s Roofing Today for a Free Storm Damage Inspection

Don’t leave your roof’s condition to chance. Call us directly to schedule your inspection. We’ll help you move forward confidently, no matter what Michigan weather throws your way.