Storm, Wind and Hail Roof Damage Around Syracuse
Central New York storms come in every season: summer thunderstorms with straight-line gusts and hail, autumn wind, and winter snow loads and ice. After any of them, a careful look at the roof, gutters and attic can catch damage before the next rain or thaw finds it.
The short version
After a storm, document first: photos from the ground of the roof, gutters, vents and any ceiling stains, with dates. Stay off the roof. Then get a written description of the damage and the proposed repair.
- Common damage: lifted or missing shingles, hail bruising, dented vents, limb punctures
- Ask about: temporary covers, scope, insurance paperwork
Storm damage estimate request
About a minute. Send the details and expect a call back to talk the project through.
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- Common scope
- Inspect roof and attic, tarp if needed, repair or replace damaged sections, check gutters and vents
- Weather to plan around
- Summer thunderstorm season and autumn wind events
- House watch-out
- Hail bruises that are hard to see from the ground
- Paperwork
- Insurance claims follow the policy; keep dated photos
What storms do to roofs here
The National Weather Service Binghamton office issues severe thunderstorm, high wind and winter storm warnings for Onondaga County (National Weather Service Binghamton (forecast office for Onondaga County)), and NOAA's Storm Prediction Center publishes the severe weather outlooks that often flag Central New York in late spring and summer (NOAA Storm Prediction Center). Each type of storm leaves different marks.
- Wind: gusts pull hardest at eaves, rakes and ridges. Shingles lose their seal, crease and then tear off.
- Hail: hailstones can bruise shingles, knock granules loose and dent metal vents, gutters and flashing. Bruises are often invisible from the ground.
- Falling limbs: large trees are common in older Syracuse neighborhoods and the eastern suburbs. A limb can puncture decking or crack rafters.
- Snow and ice: heavy, wet snow adds weight, and ice sliding off a steep upper roof can damage a lower roof or gutters.
Right after the storm
- Make sure everyone is safe, and stay away from downed wires.
- Take dated photos from the ground and from windows: the roof, gutters, vents, skylights and any debris.
- Check ceilings and the attic for water.
- If water is coming in, a temporary cover keeps the damage from spreading.
- Keep receipts for any emergency measures.
Insurance claims in New York
Homeowners policies differ in what they cover and how. The NY Department of Financial Services publishes consumer guidance on filing homeowners claims and how to get help if a claim stalls (NY Department of Financial Services, consumer help). A clear written description of the damage, with photos, makes that process easier. A contractor should not promise a claim result; the insurer decides. The storm claims guide covers the steps.
Storm-chaser caution
After a big storm, out-of-area roofers often knock on doors. The New York State Attorney General warns homeowners to get written contracts, check references, and avoid paying large sums up front (New York State Attorney General). Taking time to get a written estimate is reasonable even after damage, once the roof is covered.
Repair or replace after a storm
Limited damage on a roof with years left usually calls for a repair. Widespread hail bruising, damage across several slopes, or a roof that was near the end of its life may make replacement the better choice. See what shapes storm repair, roof repair and roof replacement.
Sizing up the job: see what shapes storm repair on the estimate-factors page. It lists what moves the scope, never a price.
Further reading
Sources for this page: National Weather Service Binghamton (forecast office for Onondaga County); NOAA Storm Prediction Center; NY Department of Financial Services, consumer help; New York State Attorney General.
Storm, Wind & Hail Damage: what people ask
How can I tell if hail hit my roof?
Dents in gutters, downspouts and metal vents are a good sign hail was large enough to matter. Shingle bruising usually needs a close look on the roof.
Should I go up on the roof after a storm?
No. Wet, damaged or icy roofs are dangerous. Take photos from the ground and from windows instead.
Will insurance pay for my roof?
That depends on the policy and the insurer's review. The NY Department of Financial Services has consumer help on homeowners claims.
What is a temporary roof cover?
A tarp or similar covering fastened over damaged areas to keep water out until a permanent repair can be made.
How soon should storm damage be repaired?
As soon as practical, especially before the next rain or freeze. Openings let water reach decking and insulation quickly.
Can heavy snow damage a roof?
Yes. Very heavy, wet snow adds load, and ice sliding off upper roofs can damage lower roofs and gutters. Sagging or new cracks inside are warning signs.
Storm damage estimates by town
Snow load, wind exposure, housing age and the code office all change from one town to the next. Pick yours for local notes.
The city
North of the city
West of the city
East of the city
Often planned alongside
Roof Repair
Missing or cracked shingles, lifted edges, worn flashing, pipe boots and chimney leaks fixed before a small problem meets a big winter.
Roof Inspections
Condition checks for buying, selling, insurance questions, after a storm, or before another winter on an aging roof.
Roof Replacement
Full tear-off and new roof systems for aging, storm-worn or ice-damaged roofs, planned around Central New York snow and freeze-thaw winters.
Planning storm damage work?
Send the details and expect a call back to talk the project through.