Project Overview
After a severe thunderstorm swept through Princeton Junction in late spring, this homeowner discovered missing shingles, damaged flashing, and an active leak into their second-floor bedroom. They needed fast response, quality repair, and help navigating the insurance claim process.
Emergency Response
Day 1: Temporary Measures
We arrived within 4 hours of the initial call:
- Tarped the exposed areas to prevent further water intrusion
- Documented all visible damage with photos and measurements
- Identified the leak path and placed buckets to protect interior
- Provided initial damage assessment
Insurance Coordination
We worked directly with their insurance adjuster:
- Prepared detailed scope of work document
- Met adjuster on-site to walk through damage
- Provided material specifications and pricing
- Documented code upgrade requirements (insurance covers bringing up to code)
Damage Assessment
The storm caused damage to approximately 40% of the roof:
Primary Damage
- Southwest face: 15 shingles completely removed by wind
- Ridge line: Ridge cap shingles displaced
- Chimney flashing: Lifted and separated
- Gutter: Section torn away from fascia
Secondary Issues Discovered
- Several areas of nail pops throughout roof
- Existing boot flashings cracked and failing
- Attic ventilation inadequate (contributing to shingle deterioration)
Scope of Work
Roof Repairs
Rather than patching, we replaced the entire southwest face for consistency:
- Complete tear-off of southwest section
- New GAF Timberline HDZ shingles (matched existing color)
- Replaced all ridge cap shingles
- New ice and water shield at eaves
- Synthetic underlayment throughout repaired area
Flashing Repairs
- Chimney counter-flashing reset with proper sealant
- New pipe boot flashings (all locations)
- Step flashing replaced at roof-wall intersections
Ventilation Upgrade (Code Requirement)
Insurance covered bringing ventilation to code:
- Added 4 additional soffit vents
- Installed continuous ridge vent
- Removed inefficient box vents
Gutter Repair
- Replaced 20’ section of gutter
- Re-secured all gutter hangers
- Adjusted pitch for proper drainage
Insurance Claim Details
| Item | Insurance Coverage |
|---|---|
| Emergency tarp | Covered 100% |
| Roof replacement (damaged area) | Covered less deductible |
| Flashing repairs | Covered 100% |
| Ventilation upgrade | Covered (code upgrade) |
| Gutters | Covered 100% |
Homeowner out-of-pocket: Deductible only ($1,000)
Timeline
- Day 1: Emergency response and tarp
- Day 3: Insurance adjuster meeting
- Day 7: Insurance approval received
- Day 10-12: Complete repairs
Result
The homeowners were relieved to have the repair handled professionally without the stress of managing the insurance claim themselves. The roof section now matches perfectly, and the ventilation upgrade should extend the life of the remaining shingles.
We also identified that the undamaged sections of the roof have approximately 5-7 years of life remaining — the homeowners now have time to plan and budget for a future full replacement.
Storm Damage Tips
If your roof is damaged in a storm:
- Document immediately — take photos before any cleanup
- Don’t sign anything with door-to-door contractors who appear after storms
- Contact your insurance within 24 hours
- Get a professional inspection — some damage isn’t visible from the ground
- Understand your coverage — know your deductible and coverage limits