Emergency Response Guide: Roofing Issues

Roof problems don’t wait for convenient times. A missing shingle during a storm or a small leak after heavy rain can quickly escalate into costly water damage, structural issues, and mold growth. For Winston-Salem homeowners, understanding how to respond to roofing emergencies can save thousands in repairs and protect your family’s safety.

This comprehensive guide will help you identify common roofing emergencies, take immediate protective action, and know when to call professionals, like us at STOP Restoration, for water damage restoration services.

Common Roofing Emergencies and How to Spot Them

Leaking or Damaged Roofs

Water intrusion is the most urgent roofing emergency you can face. Even small leaks can cause significant damage if left unaddressed.

Signs to Watch For:

- - Water stains on ceilings or walls, often appearing as brown or yellow discoloration
  - Active dripping during rainstorms
  - Sagging drywall or bubbling paint near the ceiling
  - Musty odors that could indicate hidden moisture

What’s Happening?

Water is infiltrating your roof structure, typically due to compromised roofing materials, clogged gutters, or previous storm damage. The longer water sits, the more extensive the damage becomes to insulation, drywall, and structural components.

Missing Shingles or Flashing

High winds and severe weather can strip protective materials from your roof, leaving vulnerable areas exposed to the elements.

Signs to Watch For:

- - Visible gaps or exposed underlayment on the roof surface
  - Shingle debris scattered in your yard or driveway after storms
  - Water leaking near chimneys, skylights, or vents where flashing may be damaged
  - Granules from asphalt shingles collecting in gutters

What’s Happening?

Wind damage, hail impact, or aging materials cause shingles and flashing to break free. These gaps create direct pathways for water to enter your home’s structure, bypassing your roof’s protective barrier.

Ice Dams (Colder Climates)

While less common in Winston-Salem, ice dams can still occur during winter weather events.

Signs to Watch For:

- - Large icicles forming along roof edges and eaves
  - Water dripping inside your home despite snow covering the roof
  - Thick ice buildup at roof edges while the center remains clear

What’s Happening?

Warm air from your attic melts snow on the roof’s surface. This water flows down and refreezes at the colder roof edges, creating a dam. As more water backs up behind this ice barrier, it’s forced under shingles and into your home.

Step-by-Step: What to Do Right Now

Contain Interior Leaks

Your first priority is protecting your belongings and preventing water from spreading throughout your home.

- Place buckets, pots, or large containers under active leaks
- Use towels or tarps to direct water flow toward containers
- Move furniture, electronics, and valuables away from affected areas
- If water is dripping near light fixtures or electrical outlets, immediately turn off power to that area at the circuit breaker

Minimize Roof Exposure (If Safe to Do So)

Only attempt these steps if weather conditions are safe and you can work without climbing on the roof.

- Temporarily cover damaged areas with heavy-duty tarps, securing them with weights (never nails or staples during active leaks)
- Clear debris from nearby gutters to allow proper water drainage
- Remove any loose shingles or materials that could cause additional damage

| Safety Note: Never attempt roof work during storms, on wet surfaces, or if you’re uncomfortable with heights. Professional intervention is always safer.

Document the Damage

Proper documentation is essential for insurance claims and restoration planning.

- Take clear photos of interior damage, including water stains, affected belongings, and structural issues
- Photograph exterior damage from ground level, showing missing shingles, damaged flashing, or visible roof problems
- Keep detailed records of all emergency expenses and temporary repairs
- Note the date, time, and weather conditions when damage occurred

Call STOP Restoration Immediately

Time is of the essence when dealing with roofing emergencies that cause water damage. STOP Restoration’s 24/7 emergency response team can quickly assess water intrusion, begin the drying process, and coordinate with roofing contractors to prevent further damage.

Our Winston-Salem team understands that roofing emergencies often lead to water damage issues requiring immediate professional attention. Fast action prevents mold growth and minimizes structural damage to your home.

How to Prevent Future Roofing Disasters

Prevention is always more cost-effective than emergency repairs. These proactive steps can help you avoid roofing emergencies:

Regular Inspections

Schedule professional roof inspections twice yearly—once in spring and once in fall. Also inspect after major storms or severe weather events. Look for loose, missing, or damaged shingles, compromised flashing, and signs of wear around roof penetrations.

Maintain Clean Gutters

Clogged gutters force water to back up under shingles and into your home’s structure. Clean gutters regularly and ensure proper drainage away from your foundation.

Trim Overhanging Branches

Tree limbs can damage shingles during storms and provide pathways for animals to access your roof. Keep branches trimmed at least six feet away from your roof line.

Improve Attic Ventilation

Proper insulation and ventilation reduce ice dam risks and prevent moisture buildup that can weaken roofing materials from underneath.

Address Small Issues Promptly

Replace missing shingles immediately, seal small gaps, and repair minor damage before it becomes a major problem. Small investments in maintenance prevent costly emergency repairs.

Why STOP Restoration Is Your Go-To for Roof-Related Water Damage

When roofing issues lead to water intrusion, you need a restoration partner who can respond quickly, work efficiently, and coordinate seamlessly with your insurance company. STOP Restoration serves Winston-Salem and the surrounding Triad area with comprehensive water damage restoration services.

24/7 Emergency Response

Our team is available around the clock, ready to respond to roofing emergencies that cause water damage. We understand that disasters don’t wait for business hours.

Advanced Drying & Moisture Detection

We use professional-grade equipment to extract water, thoroughly dry affected areas, and detect hidden moisture that could lead to future problems.

Mold Prevention & Remediation

Quick action prevents mold growth, but if mold is already present, our certified technicians can safely remove it and restore healthy indoor air quality.

Insurance Claim Assistance

We work directly with insurance companies to streamline the claims process, providing detailed documentation and working within approved budgets.

Locally Owned, Nationally Backed

As part of the STOP Restoration network, we combine local expertise with national resources and standards.