Homeowners across Ottumwa, Iowa are dealing with the aftermath of recent severe storms that brought significant storm damage to the area. High winds and large hail struck parts of Wapello County, leaving roofs, gutters, and siding in need of immediate attention.
If your home was in the path of these storms, now is the time to act. Call today (515) 681-4699.
What the Recent Storms Brought to Ottumwa
Southern Iowa has seen a string of strong storm systems move through the region in recent weeks. Weather reports have documented wind gusts exceeding 60 mph and hail ranging from pea-size up to golf ball-size (1.75 inches in diameter) in parts of Wapello County, according to data tracked by the National Weather Service.
Storm events of this magnitude are capable of causing immediate damage to roofing systems. Wind speeds above 50 mph are enough to lift shingles, break seals, and allow water intrusion. When both hail and wind occur together, the combined impact significantly increases the risk of roof failure. Even hail as small as one inch in diameter can bruise asphalt shingles and compromise their protective granule coating.
Why Roof Damage Is Not Always Visible From the Ground
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make after a storm is assuming their roof is fine because they do not see obvious damage from the yard.
Hail damage to asphalt shingles often appears as dark bruising or soft spots that are only visible up close. Granule loss, which protects your shingles from moisture, may not be obvious until you notice granules collecting in your gutters or downspouts.
Wind damage can lift the edges of shingles without fully tearing them away. This creates gaps where water, debris, and moisture can enter your attic and cause long-term structural problems. If your home is hit by storms, or you heard hail dance on the roof, it’s best to reach out to a licensed roofing expert to verify that your shingles were not damaged.
Signs of Hail Damage on Your Roof
Knowing what to look for can help you understand whether your home may have been affected. Common signs of hail damage include:
Shingle Granule Loss
Hail knocks granules loose from the surface of asphalt shingles. You may notice black or gray granules collecting at the base of your downspouts or in your gutters after a storm.
Dents and Bruising on Shingles
Impact marks from hail often appear as small circular dents or soft spots on shingles. These weak points accelerate aging and make shingles more susceptible to cracking and leaking.
Damage to Gutters, Vents, and Flashing
Metal components such as gutters, roof vents, and flashing often show visible dents or dings from hail impact. Damage to these areas is a strong indicator that your roof shingles were also affected.
Cracked or Missing Shingles
Larger hailstones can crack shingles outright. Missing shingles after a windstorm leave sections of your roof deck completely exposed to the elements.
Signs of Wind Damage on Your Roof
Wind damage presents differently than hail damage but is equally serious. Watch for these warning signs:
Lifted or Curling Shingle Edges
Strong winds can break the adhesive seal on shingles, causing them to lift or curl at the edges. Once the seal is broken, shingles are far more vulnerable to future wind events.
Missing Shingles
If sections of shingles have blown off entirely, your roof deck is exposed. Water intrusion can begin with the very next rainfall.
Debris Impact Damage
Wind carries tree branches, debris, and other objects that can puncture or scrape roofing materials. Even minor impacts can create entry points for moisture.
What You Should Do Right Now
If you experienced the recent storms in or around Ottumwa, here are the most important next steps:
Do a safe visual check from the ground. Look for visible missing shingles, debris on the roof, or damage to gutters and vents. Do not attempt to climb onto your roof yourself.
Document what you see. Take photos and note the date of the storm. This information may be useful when you contact your insurance provider.
Schedule a professional roof inspection with our team as soon as possible. Storm damage can worsen quickly, especially if more rain or wind is in the forecast. A professional inspection identifies damage that is not visible from the ground.
Contact your homeowners insurance company. Report the storm event and potential damage. Your insurer will walk you through their claims process. As a roofing contractor, our role is to inspect and document damage and perform necessary repairs.
Why Acting Quickly Matters
Small damages can become big expenses
Storm damage does not stay contained. What begins as a few compromised shingles can lead to water intrusion, attic damage, and interior ceiling issues within a matter of weeks.
The longer damaged roofing materials are left unaddressed, the more extensive and costly repairs become. Getting an inspection done promptly protects your home and gives you an accurate picture of what repairs are needed.
Getting an inspection after a storm ensures you’ve documented the incident.
Even if you’re not ready for roofing repairs, you’ll have an inspection on file for your insurance
If you wait too long, it can be challenging to prove your water or roof damages are related to a specific weather event and not just circumstance to wear and tear with the age of the roof. Getting a proper inspection at the time of the event ensures you’re documenting the storm and areas of damage, such as dents or missing shingles, by an expert. Then, if you wait to see if there are any issues, you’ll have a documented event to reference for your claims should problems seep into your home.
Iowa storm seasons are active, and another storm system or rainy day can make the existing damage significantly worse. Do not wait until you see a water stain on your ceiling to take action.
