Pennsylvania has had a torrid year when it comes to roof damage. The August hail caused particular damage, with Yahoo highlighting the race of several contractors to get issued rectified before winter, no matter how mild, really starts to land and cause problems. As far as property damage goes, roofing can be one of the most problematic areas to fix. It can cause huge damage through leaks and structural instability if obvious; many times, however, it’s hard to see the damage being done until it’s too late, and leaks have already wreaked havoc on the building. As such, it’s important for Pennsylvania area businesses to first take stock of what damage could have occurred, and then put steps in that will protect them long term.

Assessing the damage

There are times when roof damage will be clear. After a significant storm, hurricane, or other wet weather event, it can be assumed that significant tears will be present on the roof and that full assessment will be required - as was seen in Bedford County, according to WTAJ reports. In other times, however, the impact can be more insidious. A set of moved tiles may not be obvious unless the debris has landed near the house. The same can be said for a flat roof, where it can only be obvious that damage has been undertaken once there’s debris around.

When the problems start to mount is when leaks and water bubbles appear on ceilings. This will necessitate getting expert help to get on the roof and start assessing damage. Once any obvious damage has been repaired, it’s equally essential to look at extensive, specialist cleaning. Ensuring that debris is removed, in addition to plant growth, moss, leaves and foreign objects, will ensure that the roof is in a good state of repair and doesn’t continue to cause issues.

Storm proofing a roof

Pennsylvania and Philly are only set to receive more storms and severe weather events. Accordingly, any changes that can be made to protect a roof will be effective. Changes made during the quiet season will help to provide protection when the rains do come. Making the choice on the type of roof, however, can be more complex.

The American Roofing Co. provides a summary of what they feel are the best ways to protect a roof from storms. The best measure is to install a metal roof. These are heavy, offer protection against all but the strongest gusts, and typically have double the lifespan of asphalt shingle. They can rust, and will need treatment, and are expensive, too, but offer the best long-term protection. For older style roofs, the options are more limited, but there are things you can do, such as investing in reinforced shingles; adding roof clips; and altering the design of the roof to help break winds.

Resting on your laurels

With the increased rate of storm damage, insurers are under pressure. In these conditions, they will start to look for ways in which to delay claims, and to provide as much possible scrutiny before they start to pay out. The Philadelphia Inquirer highlights the case of one Upper Dublin family who has to contest claims over six months - even as new storms brewed. These are cautionary tales, and should spur homeowners, and business owners, into new action in order to protect their premises. Cleaning can be key.

Keeping the roof clean

Aside from the benefits of a clean roof in terms of preventing storm damage in the first place – build ups of moss, leaves and other detritus can impact the ability of the roof to channel water, to deflect wind and to survive collisions - cleaning can have an impact on insurance quotes. Insurers want to see a roof is in full and good working condition before paying out. In order to do that, it needs to be clean.

There is evidence that insurers will take these factors into account. WGAL has reported on several rejected insurance claims, whether partly in the whole, where just that had happened - an unclean and overgrown roof will make insurers wary. Getting specialist cleaning to ensure that the roof is not only superficially clean, but also has a deep level of clean that will help to prevent future damage from storms, is the key.

In time, that will provide peace of mind against the increasingly severe weather experienced in Pennsylvania as well as providing full protection against the risk posed by roof damage and removal. Cleaning is more impactful than you can consider; the gentle buildup of debris will really damage your ability to maintain a healthy roof and keep damage at bay. Taking small steps, often, and putting in measures to prevent storms from doing their damage, is key.