Storms and Roofing Damage in the Midwest: Understanding the Impact
The Midwest, also known as America’s Heartland, is renowned for its rolling plains and friendly communities. Yet, it’s also known for its diverse and often severe weather conditions, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, snowstorms, and hailstorms. These extreme weather conditions pose a significant challenge to homeowners, particularly regarding roof maintenance and repair.
Understanding the Types of Storms in the Midwest
One can’t discuss roofing issues in the Midwest without understanding the types of storms prevalent in the region. Thunderstorms, often accompanied by high winds, can cause shingles to break or even be ripped off. Tornadoes, a frequent phenomenon in the ‘Tornado Alley’, can lead to extensive structural damage.
Hailstorms can leave dents or cracks in the roofing materials, leading to leaks and water damage over time. And let’s not forget the snowstorms, which can put a significant amount of weight on roofs, potentially leading to structural issues if not appropriately managed.
Some of the Hardest Hit Areas in the Midwest
Hailstorms can have a significant impact on numerous cities within the Midwest, with some hit harder than others. According to data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the “Hail Belt” in the Midwest takes the brunt of the hailstorms. For example, Sioux Falls in South Dakota, Omaha in Nebraska, and Kansas City in Kansas frequently top the list of cities with the most hailstorm events annually.
In Missouri, the cities of Springfield and St. Louis regions often experience severe hailstorms. These storms can cause widespread damage, notably to roofs of homes and buildings. In recent years there has been a massive influx in the number of roofers in Springfield Missouri due to the increase in storm damage that occurs in the state. In such situations, the services of professional roofers become indispensable.
The intensity of these hailstorms varies, with some being more destructive due to the size of the hailstones and the wind speed. As a result, homeowners in these areas face unique challenges and costs in repairing and reinforcing their roofs to withstand such powerful natural events. It underscores the importance of engaging professional roofing services to ensure homes are well protected from such severe weather conditions.
How Storms Impact Different Roofing Materials
Different types of roofing materials exhibit varying levels of resilience to these storm conditions. For example, asphalt shingles may be susceptible to high winds, while metal roofs could be prone to dents from hail. It’s vital for homeowners to understand what their roofs can withstand and plan their maintenance and repair schedules accordingly.
Identifying and Assessing Storm Damage
Signs of storm damage can range from obvious ones like missing shingles or leaks inside the house to more subtle ones like granules from shingles in the gutters or dents and cracks that are only visible up close. Regular inspection, especially after a storm, is crucial to prevent minor damage from turning into significant problems. Homeowners can conduct basic checks themselves, but for an in-depth assessment, professional help is advisable. Companies that specialize in restoration can provide services, offering detailed damage assessments and effective repair solutions.
Dealing with Insurance and Costs
Homeowners insurance typically covers storm damage, but the process of making a claim can sometimes be overwhelming. Policies vary, so it’s important to understand the terms, such as deductible, depreciation, and replacement cost. In the case of severe damage where roof replacement is required, the costs can be quite high. Ensuring you have suitable coverage and knowing how to navigate the claims process is vital.
Prevention and Maintenance
Preventive measures, like regular inspections and immediate repair of minor damages, can help reduce the impact of storms. Reinforcing your roof to withstand the specific weather conditions of your area can also be a worthwhile investment.
The Bigger Picture: Climate Change
Unfortunately, with climate change, experts predict that extreme weather events will become more frequent and severe, potentially leading to increased roof damage. Homeowners in the Midwest need to be prepared for this reality and consider it in their home maintenance plans.
Remember, when it comes to safeguarding your home against storms, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Stay ahead of the weather and keep your home safe and dry, no matter what Mother Nature has in store.
