After a big storm rolls through East Tennessee, the first thing we check is the roof. Hail, high winds, and debris can cause damage that is easy to miss from the ground but hard to ignore once leaks start. As local roofing contractors, we’ve helped homeowners in Knoxville, Powell, and Oak Ridge figure out what to look for and what steps to take next.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you check your roof safely and thoroughly.
Start From the Ground
Stay off the roof unless you’re trained and using fall protection. Most damage can be spotted from the yard with a good pair of eyes or a camera.
Look for signs like:
- Shingle pieces or granules piled in downspouts.
- Dented gutters, siding, or garage doors.
- Leaning chimney caps or shifted vents.
- Sagging or bent sections in your gutters.
These are often early warnings that your roof took a hit. If you see any of these, you may need a full roof replacement instead of a simple patch.
Inspect the Roof Surface Safely
If it is safe to do so or a professional can get up there, focus on the key areas that often fail during storms:
- Shingles or panels: Cracked, curled, or missing roof shingles are common after wind and hail.
- Metal roofs: Look for impact dents or loose fasteners, especially near panel edges. Our metal roof systems hold up well, but even strong seams can shift.
- Flashings: Torn rubber boots or loose flashing around vents and chimneys can let water seep under your roofing.
- Ridge caps and valleys: Wind-lifted ridge vents often go unnoticed but lead to future leaks.
We always take photos from multiple angles. These help document the damage for your insurance and give us a head start on pricing a fix.
Don’t Skip the Attic and Ceiling
Even if the outside looks fine, water can still creep in.
- Look for wet insulation or water stains on rafters.
- Run your hand across ceiling seams to feel for soft drywall.
- Sniff for musty smells in the attic, a sign of slow leaks and mold growth.
Leaks can sneak in at the roof edge or around flashing. That’s why our crews install full systems, not just shingles. Asphalt roofing needs to perform as a whole unit.
Next Steps: Insurance and Repairs
Start a damage file with photos, time-stamped notes, and receipts for anything you bought to prevent more damage, like tarps or plywood.
Then, reach out to your insurer and to roofing contractors near you. Permits are required in most counties for structural repairs, so you’ll want a licensed roofer on your side.
If the inspection points to larger damage, it may be more cost-effective to schedule a full roof replacement. Temporary repairs often cost more long-term.
Financing Options Available
We offer flexible financing to help you get the work done quickly and protect your home before the next storm hits. You can get a detailed estimate from a roofer in Knoxville TN, Powell TN, or Oak Ridge TN without pressure or gimmicks.
Stay Ahead of the Next Storm
Regular maintenance helps your roof last longer. Keep trees trimmed back and clean your gutters in Knoxville and surrounding areas before storm season hits. Larger six-inch gutters with 3×4 downspouts handle storm runoff much better than older systems.
Protect Your Home With a Prompt Roof Inspection
If your roof was hit by a storm and shows signs of damage, or if you are unsure, it may be time for a full roof replacement. Missing shingles, dented metal panels, or sagging gutters can all lead to bigger issues.
Contact us today, and we will come take a look. As one of the top-rated roofing contractors in Tennessee, we will inspect your roof, explain the damage, and walk you through your options with no pressure.