The Homeowner’s Guide to Roof Leaks: Tips, Costs, and Repairs

With Missouri’s unpredictable weather—ranging from heavy rain and hail to scorching (often humid) summers and freezing winters—it’s crucial to choose a roof that can withstand the elements while enhancing your home’s value and curb appeal. Whether metal, shingles, or tile, we’ve got you covered at Big Bear Roofing.

While it still feels like winter here in Missouri, Spring is just around the corner – and with it a new challenge for your roof – spring storms. Heavy rain, strong winds, hail, sleet, and even tornadoes can wreak havoc on your home (particularly your roof) during this season. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements so it is crucial to inspect it after a storm to catch potential damage early. At Big Bear Roofing , we know just how much storms can affect your home’s roof – and we know how important it is to act quickly when dealing with roof damage. After a storm, we will repair your roof quickly and have you back to feeling safe and secure in your home. How Spring Storms Impact Your Roof In Missouri, spring storms can be unpredictable and intense. It’s important to be prepared beforehand, but even preparedness doesn’t always stop unexpected debris and other hazards caused by extreme weather conditions. Common ways spring weather can damage your roof: 1. High Winds Storms often bring strong winds that can lift, loosen, or completely remove shingles. Beyond the direct damage that wind can cause your roof, it can also blow debris (like tree branches) onto your roof, causing punctures or cracks. Over time, missing shingles can expose the underlying structure of your home, leading to leaks and expensive structural damage. The most cost-effective option for Missouri homeowners is to fix these issues before they become major problems for your roof and your wallet. 2. Heavy Rain The consistent, heavy rainfall that often accompanies Missouri’s spring storms can wear down roofing materials (especially if your roof is more than ten years old). Additionally, if your gutters are clogged or damaged, water may pool on your roof, increasing the risk of leaks and water damage inside your home. 3. Hail Damage In the spring, hailstorms are common in Missouri and can cause significant damage. Hailstones dent metal roofing, crack shingles, and dislodge protective granules. Even small hail can weaken the integrity of your roof over time, making it more susceptible to future damage. All types of hail can cause seemingly small problems that lead to large, structural issues if left unrepaired. 4. Fallen Debris All Missouri homeowners know that our spring storms can break tree limbs and send all kinds of debris flying. This is bad news for your roof because all forms of debris can puncture or crack it, leading either to immediate problems or problems down the road. Even when the impact doesn’t seem severe, small holes and cracks can lead to bigger problems when they’re left unaddressed. 7 Signs You Need a Roof Inspection After a Storm As a homeowner, it’s essential to check your roof after a storm to assess the damage. While some issues are obvious (even to untrained eyes), sometimes you need to call in a professional. These are key signs that you need a professional roofing contractor to inspect your roof for damage. 1. Missing or Damaged Shingles Missing and damaged shingles are typically very easy to identify. If you notice shingles on the ground or see bald spots on your roof, high winds may have blown them off. Curled, cracked, or torn shingles can also indicate storm damage. 2. Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls Water stains (or discoloration with an unidentified cause) inside your home could mean a leaky roof. Even when the leak isn’t immediately visible, moisture intrusion can lead to mold growth and structural damage. 3. Granule Loss in Gutters Hail and heavy rain can strip shingles of their protective granules. These granules ensure the longevity of a shingle roof, so losing them can drastically lower the roof’s lifespan. Check your gutters and downspouts for an accumulation of granules—this could be a sign that your roof’s lifespan is decreasing. 4. Dented or Damaged Flashing Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights helps prevent water infiltration. If you see dents, cracks, or gaps in these areas, your roof may be vulnerable to leaks. 5. Sagging Roof or Soft Spots If parts of your roof appear to sag or feel soft when pressed, moisture may have compromised the underlying structure. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention to prevent collapse. 6. Clogged or Damaged Gutters Gutters play a crucial role in directing water away from your home. If they are clogged, bent, or detached after a storm, water can back up onto your roof and cause leaks. 7. Visible Roof Debris If you find large tree limbs or other debris on your roof, it’s best to have a professional inspect for any punctures or hidden damage. While small punctures may be invisible to your eye, a professional can identify them before they become a major issue. If you see any of these signs, call Big Bear Roofing today! Our team will quickly assess the damage and fix any problems that storm damage has caused. What to Do if Your Roof is Damaged If you suspect roof damage after a storm, taking action quickly can save you money, time, and future stress by preventing further problems. Following these steps will help you protect your home and make sure your roof gets the repairs it needs. 1. Conduct a Visual Inspection After the storm passes, conduct a visual inspection from the ground. Look for obvious signs of damage (like missing shingles, sagging sections of the roof, or fallen debris). Avoid climbing onto the roof yourself as damaged areas may be unsafe. 2. Document the Damage Take clear photos and videos of any visible damage. This will be useful for insurance claims and when discussing repairs with a contractor. 3. Contact a Professional Roofing Contractor Schedule a free inspection with Big Bear Roofing . We will assess the extent of the damage, provide repair recommendations, and help prevent minor issues from becoming major problems. Preventative Measures for Future Storms While you can’t stop a storm from happening, you can take steps to minimize damage to your roof. With these tips, your home (and roof) will be well-prepared for any future storms. Trim Trees Regularly: Remove overhanging branches that could fall onto your roof during a storm. Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure proper water drainage to prevent pooling and leaks. Schedule Routine Roof Inspections: A professional inspection at least once a year can catch potential problems before they worsen. Upgrade to Impact-Resistant Shingles: Impact-resistant shingles are designed to withstand hail and heavy winds, providing extra protection. Secure Loose Roofing Materials: Check flashing, vents, and gutters to make sure they are firmly attached. Contact Us Today Missouri storms can be hard on your roof, but with Big Bear Roofing you can quickly know the extent of the damage and have it repaired before it ever becomes a major issue. Contact us today for a free estimate! Call us at (314) 350-7378 or visit https://www.bigbearroofingstl.com/ to schedule your appointment.