Your First Hour
- Stay safe: avoid rooms with sagging ceilings and keep away from wet electrical fixtures
- Shut off power to affected circuits if water is near outlets or lights
- Catch water with buckets and towels, and move furniture and electronics
- If a ceiling is bulging with water, a small puncture at the low point can release it in a controlled way
- Take photos of the damage inside and out from a safe place
Do not climb onto a wet or damaged roof. That is our job.
How Emergency Tarping Works
A properly installed tarp is more than a sheet thrown over the house. It is secured over the ridge and fastened with battens so wind cannot get under it, and it covers well beyond the damaged area. Good emergency roof tarping buys time to plan a permanent repair and helps show your insurer that you took reasonable steps to prevent further damage. Our article on tarping after a storm goes into more detail.
When a Tree or Limb Hits the Roof
Large limbs can crack rafters and decking, not just shingles. If a tree is resting on the roof, it usually needs to be removed by a tree service before roof work can begin. Once it is clear, we check the framing, replace broken decking and rebuild the roof surface to match. Fallen tree roof damage is often covered by homeowners insurance, so documenting it carefully matters.
From Temporary Patch to Permanent Fix
After the immediate threat is handled, we inspect the whole roof, not just the damaged spot. Storms that break one area often loosen shingles or flashing elsewhere. You receive a written scope for the permanent repair or, if the roof is near the end of its life, a replacement option to compare. Homeowners in Ridgeland and across the county can also browse our Madison County exterior services.
Common Questions
Should I call my insurance company or a roofer first?
Do both, but focus first on protecting your home from more water. Insurers generally expect you to take reasonable steps to limit damage, such as having a tarp installed. Keep receipts and photos.
How long can a tarp stay on my roof?
A well-installed tarp is meant to be temporary, usually covering weeks rather than months. Sun and wind wear tarps down, so the permanent repair should be scheduled as soon as practical.
Can you repair just the damaged area, or will I need a new roof?
Many emergencies are repairable. If the roof is older or damage is widespread, replacement may be the better value. We give you both options when it makes sense.
Do you serve Ridgeland as well as Canton?
Yes. We handle emergency roof calls in Canton, Ridgeland and throughout Madison County.