A big storm can seriously impact your roofing system, causing issues such as leaks, water damage, and–perhaps worst of all–mold growth. To help you keep your roof dry and mold-free, learn more about storm damage with your Los Angeles mold inspectors. If you suspect a mold issue at any time, call them to conduct a professional inspection. 

What Can a Storm Do to a Roofing System?  

Heavy rain pounds on your roof, increasing the risk of broken shingles, leaks, wood rot, and mold growth. Severe rains can also create weak areas that allow standing water to accumulate and stress your roofing system. Standing water also attracts pests, such as mosquitoes. Other storm-related damage includes missing shingles from high winds that (again) increase the risk of leaks and related issues. Other types of roof storm damage include punctures, broken shingles, leaks from surrounding tree branches that hit the structure, and punctures/leaks from sizable hail. 

If the gutters surrounding your roofing system are clogged with organic debris, such as leaves, twigs, nuts and seeds, and animal nests, the chance of serious water damage and mold growth from storms significantly increases. Instead of flowing away from your home, rainwater backs up under shingles. Since it takes most mold strains about 48 hours to flourish, clogged gutters can result in serious mold issues. 

How to Inspect For Post-Storm Damage

Unless the roof is flat and easily accessible, it is never a good idea to walk on the structure after a storm due to the risk of slipping and falling off. To stay safe, check for damage from the ground  using binoculars. If you feel comfortable climbing a ladder and have someone to hold it, you can assess the damage that way too. 

Should you notice problems such as rusted or otherwise-damaged flashing, broken and missing shingles, depressed areas with standing water, or tree damage, contact your local roofing contractors to prevent serious water damage and mold growth. It is also a good idea to review your homeowner’s insurance policy to determine how much you can expect in terms of repair coverage. 

If you need a mold inspection for your Orange County home following a storm at any time, contact Mold Masters.