Marietta, GA, is no stranger to severe weather. From powerful thunderstorms and hail events in the spring to occasional tropical storm remnants in the late summer, Cobb County homeowners face real risks of storm damage to their roofs every year. Knowing what to do when a storm hits your home can mean the difference between a manageable repair and a catastrophic failure.
In this guide, we cover the types of storm damage common in Marietta, what steps to take immediately after a storm, and how to navigate the insurance claims process effectively.
Types of Storm Damage Common in Marietta
Hail Damage
Hail is one of the most destructive forces a roof can face, and Marietta experiences hail events regularly during spring and early summer storm seasons. Hail damage is not always visible from the ground, which makes it particularly dangerous because the damage can go unnoticed for months.
Signs of hail damage include:
- Dents or bruises on shingles that feel soft to the touch
- Circular patterns of granule loss on asphalt shingles
- Dented metal flashing, vents, or gutters
- Cracked or fractured shingles
- Dings on siding, window frames, or outdoor AC units
Even small hailstones can compromise the integrity of your shingles by knocking off protective granules, which accelerates deterioration and leaves your roof vulnerable to leaks.
Wind Damage
Strong winds associated with thunderstorms, microbursts, and occasional tornado activity can lift, crack, or completely tear shingles from your roof. Wind damage often starts at the edges and corners of the roof where uplift forces are greatest.
Signs of wind damage include:
- Missing shingles or shingles that have shifted out of position
- Lifted or peeled-back shingle edges
- Exposed underlayment or roof deck
- Debris scattered across the roof surface
- Damaged ridge caps along the roof peak
In Marietta, wind damage is especially common in neighborhoods with significant tree coverage, where branches and limbs can become airborne projectiles during a storm.
Fallen Tree and Limb Damage
Marietta is known for its beautiful mature trees, but during severe storms, those same trees can become a serious hazard. Fallen branches and whole trees can puncture roofing materials, crush structural supports, and create large openings that expose your home to rain and further damage.
What to look for after a storm:
- Obvious impact marks or punctures on the roof
- Broken or displaced roofing materials around fallen limbs
- Branches resting on or embedded in the roof surface
- Cracked or broken rafters visible from the attic
If a tree has fallen on your roof, do not attempt to remove it yourself. This is a situation that requires professional assessment and equipment.
What to Do Immediately After a Storm
Acting quickly after a storm can prevent secondary damage and strengthen your insurance claim. Here is what we recommend for Marietta homeowners:
1. Ensure Everyone’s Safety
Before inspecting anything, make sure your family is safe. If there is significant structural damage, evacuate the home and contact emergency services if needed.
2. Document the Damage
Use your phone to take extensive photos and videos of any visible damage, both to the roof and the surrounding property. Photograph from multiple angles and include close-ups of specific damage areas. This documentation is critical for your insurance claim.
3. Make Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage
If it is safe to do so, take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. This might include:
- Placing buckets under active leaks
- Covering broken windows or openings with tarps or plywood
- Moving valuable belongings away from leak areas
Keep all receipts for any emergency supplies you purchase, as these costs may be reimbursable through your insurance.
4. Contact a Professional Roofing Contractor
Call a trusted Marietta roofing company to perform a thorough inspection. A professional can identify damage you may have missed and provide the detailed assessment needed for your insurance claim.
Contact our emergency roofing team for immediate assistance after a storm.
The Insurance Claims Process for Storm Damage
Filing an insurance claim for storm damage can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process makes it much more manageable.
Step 1: File Your Claim Promptly
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the storm. Most policies require prompt reporting of damage. Provide your initial photos and a description of the damage you have observed.
Step 2: Schedule the Adjuster Visit
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage. We strongly recommend having your roofing contractor present during this inspection. An experienced Marietta roofer can point out damage that an adjuster might overlook and ensure the full scope of the damage is documented.
Step 3: Get a Detailed Repair Estimate
Your roofing contractor should provide a comprehensive, itemized estimate that covers all necessary repairs. This estimate will be compared against the adjuster’s assessment. If there are discrepancies, your contractor can advocate on your behalf.
Step 4: Complete the Repairs
Once your claim is approved, work with your contractor to schedule the repairs. A reputable roofing company will coordinate directly with your insurance company to make the process as smooth as possible.
Emergency Roof Repair Services in Marietta
When a storm causes immediate damage that threatens the interior of your home, you need fast, professional help. Our emergency roof repair service provides rapid response to Marietta and Cobb County homeowners dealing with:
- Active leaks from storm damage
- Structural damage from fallen trees
- Missing or severely damaged roofing sections
- Exposed roof decking or underlayment
We prioritize emergency calls and work quickly to secure your home against further damage while a permanent repair plan is developed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After Storm Damage
- Waiting too long to file a claim: Most insurance policies have time limits for reporting storm damage. File promptly to protect your coverage.
- Hiring storm chasers: After major storms, out-of-town contractors often show up offering quick fixes. Always choose a licensed, insured roofing contractor with an established presence in Marietta.
- Making permanent repairs before the adjuster visits: Temporary protective measures are fine, but do not complete permanent repairs until the damage has been documented and your claim is underway.
- Not getting a professional inspection: Some storm damage is invisible from the ground. A professional inspection can reveal hidden damage that will worsen over time if left unaddressed.
Protecting Your Marietta Home After the Storm
Storm damage is stressful, but you do not have to face it alone. Our team has helped hundreds of Marietta homeowners recover from severe weather events, from initial damage assessment through completed repairs and insurance claim resolution.
Whether you are dealing with active storm damage or want to have your roof inspected after recent severe weather, we are here to help. Request a free storm damage inspection or call us at (470) 888-0030 for immediate assistance.
Contact our team today to get your Marietta home back to full protection.