Emergency Roof Repairs: What to Do Right After a Storm
When a powerful Florida storm passes through, the aftermath can be overwhelming. High winds, driving rain, and flying debris can leave your roof damaged — and your home vulnerable. In Tampa, where storms and hurricanes are part of life, knowing what to do immediately after the storm can make the difference between a quick repair and costly long-term damage.
Here’s your step-by-step guide from Five Star Roofing and Construction, Tampa’s trusted roofing experts.
1. Prioritize Safety First
Before anything else, make sure you and your family are safe. Avoid going outside during heavy rain or lightning, and be cautious of fallen power lines, broken glass, or unstable structures. Once it’s safe to step out, assess the situation visually from the ground — not the roof. Climbing onto a wet, storm-damaged surface is extremely dangerous.
2. Inspect for Visible Roof Damage
After the storm clears, do a visual inspection from your yard or use binoculars for a closer look. Common signs of storm damage include:
Missing or lifted shingles
Bent or detached flashing
Exposed underlayment
Dented gutters or downspouts
Tree branches or debris on the roof
Inside your home, inspect the ceilings and walls for new leaks, water stains, or drips — these are early signs of roof penetration.
3. Prevent Further Damage
If you discover active leaks, take immediate steps to minimize interior damage. Use buckets, towels, or tarps to contain water and move furniture or valuables out of harm’s way. If you can safely cover an exposed area with a tarp from the ground or attic hatch, do so temporarily until professionals arrive. Avoid DIY roof climbing — it’s not worth the risk after a storm.
4. Document Everything for Insurance
Before making any repairs, take photos and videos of all visible damage — inside and out. Documenting the scene helps with insurance claims and ensures you’re fairly compensated for repairs or replacements. Include wide shots for context and close-ups for detail.
If you’re unsure how to file your claim, Five Star Roofing can assist you in working with your insurance provider to streamline the process.
5. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Storm damage isn’t always obvious from the ground. Even minor issues like lifted shingles or small punctures can lead to major leaks down the road. Contact a licensed roofing contractor — like Five Star Roofing and Construction — for a full inspection. Our Tampa-based team specializes in emergency response, ensuring fast, thorough assessments and reliable repairs when you need them most.
6. Choose the Right Repair Solution
Once the damage is assessed, your contractor will recommend the best course of action — whether it’s a targeted patch, shingle replacement, or full roof restoration. For Florida homes, storm damage can sometimes accelerate the need for a roof upgrade, especially if your current roofing system is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Five Star Roofing offers durable, storm-rated materials designed to handle Florida’s extreme weather — from asphalt shingles to hurricane-resistant metal roofs.
7. Plan for Future Protection
Every storm is a reminder of how vital your roof is. Once repairs are complete, take preventive steps to safeguard your home:
Schedule annual roof inspections before hurricane season
Trim nearby trees and remove overhanging branches
Clean gutters and downspouts regularly
Upgrade to impact-resistant materials when possible
Stay Calm, Stay Protected
Storm damage can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone. Five Star Roofing and Construction in Tampa offers 24/7 emergency roof repair services. Our experienced team responds promptly to secure your property, prevent further damage, and restore your roof to its optimal condition.
When storms strike, trust the experts who know Florida roofs best. Contact Five Star Roofing and Construction today — Tampa’s reliable choice for storm recovery and long-term roof protection.
Five Star Roofing & Construction is your experienced Emergency Roof Repairs, offering Storm Damage Roof Repair and Flat Roof Repair throughout Tampa Bay, Pinellas County, Clearwater, Tampa, and Orlando for over 20 years. We are a Licensed, Bonded, and Insured Florida Contractor, and happily offer Free Roof Inspections and Roof Assessments.
