Storm Damage Roof Repair in the Lehigh Valley: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know

When a Storm Hits Your Roof

The Lehigh Valley averages 35-45 thunderstorm days per year, and severe weather events — including hail, high winds, and heavy snow — can cause significant roof damage. Whether it's a summer thunderstorm tearing through Bethlehem or a nor'easter dumping heavy snow on Nazareth, knowing what to do after a storm can save you thousands of dollars and months of headaches.

Types of Storm Damage to Watch For

Wind Damage

High winds are the most common cause of roof damage in the Lehigh Valley. Wind doesn't need to reach tornado speeds to harm your roof — sustained winds of 60+ mph can lift shingles, break seals, and expose the underlayment beneath.

Signs of wind damage:

• ■Missing shingles or shingle tabs
• ■Shingles that are curled, lifted, or creased
• ■Exposed nail heads or underlayment
• ■Debris (branches, siding) on the roof
• ■Damaged or missing ridge cap shingles

Hail Damage

Hail damage is often invisible from the ground but can dramatically shorten your roof's lifespan. Even small hail (1 inch diameter) can crack shingles, dislodge granules, and compromise the waterproof barrier.

Signs of hail damage:

• ■Dark spots or bruises on shingles (soft to the touch)
• ■Missing granules exposing the black asphalt layer
• ■Dents on metal flashing, vents, or gutters
• ■Cracked or broken shingles
• ■Granule accumulation in gutters and downspouts

Ice Dam Damage

Ice dams form when heat escaping from your attic melts snow on the roof, which then refreezes at the eaves. This creates a dam that forces water under the shingles and into your home.

Signs of ice dam damage:

• ■Icicles hanging from the eaves (a warning sign)
• ■Water stains on interior ceilings or walls
• ■Peeling paint near the roofline
• ■Sagging or damaged gutters
• ■Mold or mildew in the attic

Heavy Snow Load

The Lehigh Valley typically receives 30-40 inches of snow per year, and wet, heavy snow can stress your roof's structure.

Warning signs:

• ■Visible sagging in the roofline
• ■Cracking or popping sounds from the attic
• ■Doors or windows that suddenly stick
• ■New cracks in interior walls

What to Do Immediately After a Storm

Step 1: Stay Safe

Never climb on a wet or damaged roof. Assess damage from the ground using binoculars, or take photos from windows on upper floors.

Step 2: Document Everything

Before any cleanup or temporary repairs:

• ■Photograph all visible damage from multiple angles
• ■Document the date, time, and type of storm
• ■Note any interior damage (water stains, leaks)
• ■Save weather reports from that day

Step 3: Prevent Further Damage

If you have an active leak:

• ■Place buckets under drips
• ■Move valuables away from the affected area
• ■If safe, place a tarp over the damaged area from outside
• ■Call for emergency repair immediately

Step 4: Call a Local Roofing Contractor

Get a professional inspection as soon as possible. A trained eye can spot damage that's invisible to homeowners — and a documented inspection report is critical for insurance claims.

Important: Do not sign anything with storm chasers who show up at your door. Always use a licensed, local contractor.

Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company

File a claim promptly. Most homeowner's policies have time limits for reporting storm damage (typically 1 year, but sooner is better).

Navigating the Insurance Claim Process

Filing a roof damage insurance claim can feel overwhelming. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Review Your Policy

Understand your coverage before filing:

• ■Deductible amount — typically $1,000-$2,500 for homeowner's policies
• ■Coverage type — Replacement Cost Value (RCV) pays for a new roof; Actual Cash Value (ACV) deducts depreciation
• ■Exclusions — Some policies exclude cosmetic damage or have separate wind/hail deductibles

2. File the Claim

Call your insurance company and provide:

• ■Date and type of storm
• ■Description of damage
• ■Photos and documentation
• ■Your contractor's inspection report

3. Meet the Adjuster

Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Have your roofing contractor present during this inspection. An experienced contractor can point out damage the adjuster might miss and ensure the scope of work is accurate.

4. Review the Estimate

The adjuster will provide an estimate. Compare it with your contractor's estimate. If there's a significant discrepancy, your contractor can help you file a supplement with additional documentation.

5. Approve and Schedule Repairs

Once the claim is approved, schedule your repairs. Your insurance company will typically issue payment in two checks — one upfront (minus your deductible) and one after the work is completed.

How RoofOps Helps with Storm Damage

We handle storm damage repairs and insurance claims every year across the Lehigh Valley, Bucks, and Montgomery Counties. Here's what we provide:

• ■Free storm damage inspections — We'll assess your roof and document all damage at no cost
• ■Insurance claim assistance — We work directly with your insurance company and attend adjuster meetings
• ■Emergency tarping — If you have an active leak, we can tarp your roof within 24 hours
• ■Complete repairs — From minor shingle replacement to full roof replacement
• ■Financing available — If your claim doesn't cover the full cost, we offer flexible financing through Acorn Finance

When to Repair vs. Replace After Storm Damage

Don't Wait — Storm Damage Gets Worse

What starts as a few missing shingles can quickly become a major leak. Water infiltration leads to:

• ■Rotted roof decking ($50-$100 per sheet to replace)
• ■Mold growth in the attic (remediation costs $1,500-$5,000+)
• ■Damaged insulation (reduces energy efficiency)
• ■Ceiling and wall damage inside your home

The sooner you address storm damage, the less it costs to fix.

Get a Free Storm Damage Inspection

If your home was recently hit by a storm — or if you're not sure whether your roof was damaged — contact us for a free inspection. We'll document everything, provide an honest assessment, and help you navigate the insurance process if needed.

Call (835) 248-0004 or schedule your free inspection today.