West Texas is known for its legendary weather. From high-velocity winds and dust storms to the sudden, heavy hailstorms that characterize our spring and summer months, the roofs in Lubbock take a beating. While some storm damage is obvious—like a fallen tree limb—the most dangerous damage is often the kind you can’t see from the ground.
At ABF Roofing & Foam, we’ve seen how a single Lubbock storm can compromise the integrity of a home. Knowing how to spot the signs and take the right steps can save you from costly interior water damage and structural issues.
Phase 1: Identifying the Damage (The Visual Inspection)
After the clouds clear, it’s time to check your home’s exterior. Safety first: You should never climb onto a wet or steep roof yourself. Most storm damage can be identified through a “ground-level” audit using binoculars.
1. Hail Damage Signs
Hail doesn’t have to be “softball-sized” to cause problems. Even pea-sized hail can strip the protective granules off your shingles.
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On the Roof: Look for “bruises” or small dark pits on the shingles. These spots feel soft to the touch, like a bruise on an apple.
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Around the House: Check your gutters and downspouts. If you see a high concentration of shingle granules (it looks like coarse sand), your roof has lost its primary line of defense against UV rays and water.
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The “Metal Test”: Look at your mailbox, metal patio furniture, or the soft metal vents on your roof. If these are dented, your shingles almost certainly sustained damage as well.
2. Wind Damage Signs
Lubbock winds can easily reach speeds that lift and “unseal” shingles.
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Lifted or Curled Shingles: Wind can break the sealant strip, causing shingles to curl upward. Even if they lay back down, the seal is broken, making them prone to leaking during the next rain.
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Missing Shingles: If you see patches of your roof deck or underlayment exposed, you are in an emergency situation and need to act fast to prevent wood rot.
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Fascia and Soffit Issues: High winds can pull away the trim around your roofline, allowing pests and moisture into your attic.
Phase 2: How to Handle the Situation
If you suspect your roof has been compromised, follow these three steps to protect your investment:
1. Document Everything
Before you start cleaning up your yard, take photos. Capture images of the hail on the ground (using a coin for scale), the downed branches, and any visible damage to your roof, siding, or fences. This documentation is vital for your insurance claim.
2. Prevent Further Damage
If you have an active leak inside your home, place a bucket under the drip and move furniture out of the way. If it is safe to do so, a professional can apply a temporary tarp to prevent more water from entering the home before the full repair can be completed.
3. Call a Local Professional, Not a “Storm Chaser”
After a big storm, you might see “storm chasers”—out-of-town contractors who knock on doors offering “free roofs.” Be cautious. You want a local company like ABF Roofing & Foam that understands Lubbock building codes and will be here to honor your warranty years down the road.
The Importance of a Professional Inspection
Some damage, like “functional” hail damage, is invisible to the untrained eye but will cause the roof to fail prematurely. A professional inspection from ABF Roofing includes a full assessment of your shingles, flashing, and ventilation. We can help you determine if a simple repair is enough or if a full roofing replacement is necessary to keep your home under warranty and up to code.
Has the West Texas weather left its mark on your home? Contact ABF Roofing & Foam today for a free, honest storm damage assessment!