When severe weather damages a home, the first priority is not always the final repair. Sometimes the most important first step is simply making the property safe and protecting the interior from additional damage.
Sheppard Exteriors recently responded to a home with extensive damage concentrated around the upper roof and gable area. As the photos show, portions of the roofing system had been torn open, leaving framing and other structural components exposed to the elements. Damage was also visible to the home's siding, roofline trim, fascia and gutter system.
Several areas of the asphalt shingle roof were also punctured or torn, creating additional locations where rainwater could potentially enter the roofing system.
With additional moisture already present and the home exposed to the weather, immediate protection was necessary.
Emergency Roof Protection Comes First
Before permanent reconstruction can begin, a badly damaged roof often needs to be temporarily sealed.
The Sheppard Exteriors crew installed a heavy-duty protective tarp over the affected sections of the roof. Rather than simply laying the tarp over the shingles, the crew used wood battens to help secure the covering across the roof slopes.
This temporary protection helps limit additional water intrusion while the full extent of the damage can be evaluated and the permanent repair work planned.
For a homeowner dealing with storm damage, this step can be extremely important. Even a relatively small opening in a roof can allow significant amounts of water into an attic, insulation, ceilings and walls during subsequent rainfall. When sections of roofing or sheathing have been opened completely, prompt action becomes even more critical.
Damage Can Extend Beyond the Shingles
One of the important things these photographs demonstrate is that storm damage is not necessarily limited to the visible roofing material.
A significant impact can potentially affect several parts of the exterior system, including:
- Asphalt shingles and ridge materials
- Roof decking and sheathing
- Rafters and structural framing
- Fascia and soffit
- Gutters and downspouts
- Siding and exterior trim
- Flashing and other roof penetrations
That is why a thorough inspection is important after a major weather event. The obvious exterior damage may only be one portion of the repairs that are ultimately required.
Protecting the Home Until Permanent Repairs Can Begin
Emergency tarping is not intended to be the permanent solution. It is a temporary protective measure designed to help keep the property covered while damaged roofing and structural areas are evaluated, materials are selected and the necessary reconstruction is scheduled.
At Sheppard Exteriors, our team can help homeowners through both sides of the process—from urgent exterior protection following damage to the permanent roofing and exterior repairs needed to restore the home.
If your home has experienced roof, siding or exterior damage following severe weather, don't wait for the next rainstorm to discover that water is entering the structure.
Contact Sheppard Exteriors for an exterior inspection and repair consultation.
Sheppard Exteriors
215-557-4444
