Did Last Night’s Storm Damage Your Roof? How to Check for Roof Damage After Rain and Storms in Southern Wisconsin
- Jon Torre
- Mar 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 7
Rain moved across much of southern Wisconsin overnight, with heavier bands passing through parts of Sauk and Columbia counties, including areas around Reedsburg, Baraboo, Merrimac, Lodi, Pardeeville, Portage, and Dekorra. Heavy rains also moved through Dane County communities such as Madison, Fitchburg, Verona, and Cross Plains.
While the storms did not produce widespread severe weather reports, periods of heavy rain and high winds can still reveal existing roof problems or cause small leaks that homeowners may not notice until the next rainfall.
Wind gusts can loosen or lift shingles, bend flashing, or expose small openings where water can enter the roof system. Tree branches and debris are another common source of damage during storms. In some cases, homeowners do not notice a problem until the next rainfall reveals a leak inside the home.
If storms passed through your area overnight, it is a good idea to take a few minutes this morning to check around your home for possible signs of roof damage.
How to check for roofing damage after a storm
Many of the first signs of storm damage appear around the yard or near gutters and downspouts. Homeowners may want to look for:
Shingles or roofing debris on the ground
Granules from asphalt shingles collecting in gutters
Tree branches or debris resting on the roof
Bent or dented gutters and downspouts
New water stains on ceilings or walls
Dripping or active roof leaks during rain
Even if damage appears minor, a professional inspection can help determine whether the roof was affected and whether repairs may be needed.
A storm damage roof inspection from a local roofing contractor can help identify hidden problems such as lifted shingles, damaged flashing, or small leaks that may not be visible from the ground.
Storm debris pickup and yard waste disposal
After major storms, cities, towns, and villages often organize debris pickup for fallen branches and tree limbs. For example, in Monroe, the Streets Division has previously collected storm debris from terraces and allowed residents to bring yard waste to the city drop-off site at 1064 5th Avenue, even offering extended hours. You can check for storm cleanup announcements on your municipality's website for updates on debris pickup schedules and drop-off hours.
Homeowners who notice significant storm damage can also report debris or hazards to their local public works department.
Storm damage roof inspections
Sun Vault Roofing offers free storm damage roof inspections for homeowners in any location impacted by storms, including Dane, Columbia, and Sauk counties.
If you believe your roof may have been impacted by the storm, you can learn more about our storm damage roof inspection services or contact us for emergency roof leak repair if you are experiencing an active leak.
Storm damage is often easier and less expensive to repair when it is identified early. A quick inspection after severe weather can help homeowners understand the condition of their roof and address small issues before they turn into larger problems.
If you noticed debris, missing shingles, or signs of a roof leak after last night's storm, scheduling a professional inspection can help determine whether repairs are needed and prevent small issues from turning into larger problems.
