Emergency Roof Repair After a Storm: First 24-Hour Guide

Emergency Roof Repair After Storm: What to Do in the First 24 Hours

When severe weather strikes New Mexico, the first 24 hours after a storm are crucial. High winds, hail damage, fallen trees, and blowing tree branches can cause roof leaks, missing shingles, or even significant roof damage in minutes. What might look like minor leaks can quickly lead to water intrusion, mold growth, or serious structural damage.

This guide walks New Mexico homeowners through five essential steps for handling emergency roof repair after storm events, from staying safe to scheduling professional repairs. Whether you’re dealing with a roof repair emergency, storm damage, or a damaged roof, following these steps can help protect your home’s structural integrity and prevent further damage.

Step 1: Stay Safe During a Roof Repair Emergency After Storm Damage

After any roofing emergency, safety comes first. Before re-entering, carefully look for hazards like downed power lines, broken glass, fallen trees, standing water near outlets, or debris from severe weather. If conditions appear unsafe, contact emergency services immediately.

Avoid climbing onto the damaged roof as wet asphalt shingles, metal roofing, or TPO can be slippery and unstable after heavy rain or high winds. Don’t attempt repairs using roofing nails, sealants, or roofing cement during a storm. If water leaks are near electrical wiring, shut off breakers and wait for help.

Ventilate damp areas to reduce mold growth and protect the home’s interior from additional interior damage. For guidance, follow FEMA’s Returning Home Safely After a Disaster and recovery guidelines from Ready.gov. These resources explain how to evaluate an emergency, recognize visible damage, and determine when to contact your insurance company.

Step 2: Contain Interior and Roof Storm Damage Before It Spreads

If you notice a roof leak or interior damage, act fast. Move furniture and electronics away from affected areas and cover them with plastic sheeting. Place buckets beneath drips to catch dripping water and use towels to absorb standing water. You can also catch dripping water with containers to limit water intrusion.

Open nearby cabinets and closets to improve airflow and help dry minor leaks. If ceilings bulge, carefully puncture a small drainage hole only if it won’t worsen significant damage. Some roof components, like roof trusses or the roof deck, may already be saturated.

Document everything with multiple angles of photos and videos, noting visible damage, the date, and time. This helps when you file an insurance claim or speak with an insurance adjuster later. Provide details about temporary fixes or minor repairs you attempt.

Review the CDC’s Mold Cleanup Guide for safe water handling and mold prevention after storm damage.

Step 3: Use Safe Temporary Repairs

After a severe storm, it’s tempting to attempt repairs right away, but start with small, safe temporary fixes first, especially when facing an emergency roof repair situation.

Do (from ground level):

  • Catch leaking water with buckets and fans to help dry affected areas.
  • Clear clogged gutters, downspouts, and drains.
  • If conditions are dry, tape plastic sheeting over small openings as a temporary fix to prevent further damage.

Avoid:

  • Climbing ladders during high winds or heavy rain.
  • Using the wrong roofing materials or household sealants.
  • Starting permanent repairs before documenting roof storm damage.

Improper emergency repairs can cause further damage or void warranties. Roof-level emergencies should always be handled by a professional roofing contractor or a qualified contractor with the right safety gear.

If your roof has loose shingles, missing shingles, loose flashing, or obvious hail damage, it’s best to leave temporary repairs to experts who can stabilize your home without risking injury.

Step 4: Prevent Further Roof Damage

Once it’s safe, take action to prevent secondary issues while you schedule repairs:

  • Keep gutters, drains, and scuppers clear to prevent pooling.
  • Redirect downspouts 5–10 feet from the foundation to limit water intrusion.
  • Maintain attic airflow to help dry insulation and reduce mold growth.
  • For flat roofs or TPO, have a roof repair specialist inspect seams, parapets, and drains for punctures.
  • For asphalt shingles or metal roofing, a roofer can resecure loose or damaged shingles, flashing, or ridge caps to prevent additional leaks.

Prompt action prevents significant roof damage, reduces the risk of interior leaks, and supports a smooth insurance claims process. Small, minor issues like loose shingles can quickly turn into costly roof repair services or even a complete roof replacement if ignored.

The New Mexico OSI – Homeowners Insurance Guidance reminds homeowners that detailed documentation supports successful insurance claims and faster approval.

Step 5: Call a Professional for Emergency Roof Repair Services

When dealing with an emergency roof, call a professional roofing contractor immediately. A licensed pro can assess the roofing material, roof components, and the extent of storm damage repair needed. They’ll determine whether you need minor repairs or a full roof replacement due to serious structural damage.

Have this information ready:

  • Address, power status, and visible damage.
  • Insurance policy number + insurance provider contact.
  • Photos + notes about temporary fixes or emergency repairs performed.

Why It Matters

A qualified contractor can identify hidden structural damage to roof trusses, decking, or underlayment that could compromise your roof’s structure. A professional evaluation determines whether your home needs permanent repairs or only minor repairs.

At East Mountain Roofing, we offer:

  • Same-day emergency roof repair when possible
  • Free roof inspections
  • Written estimates within 24–48 hours
  • Tarping and other temporary solutions
  • Assistance when you contact your insurance provider

We document visible damage for your insurance adjuster and help you file a proper insurance claim. Whether your home has damage from lightning strikes, ice dams, fire damage, or severe storm damage, we’re here to help restore your roof as quickly and safely as possible.

Stay Safe, Handle Roof Emergency Quickly to Limit Damage

Storms can cause everything from minor leaks and missing shingles to serious structural damage, but you don’t have to handle an emergency roof repair alone. East Mountain Roofing provides temporary, emergency, and permanent solutions to protect your home and prevent further damage.

Every emergency roof repair is backed by a 10-year labor warranty and up to 30-year manufacturer coverage, depending on roofing materials. If you notice water stains, roof leaks, or visible damage inside your home, don’t wait for the next round of severe weather to cause more damage.

Call (505) 264-7081 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate or to schedule your emergency roof repair with a trusted roofing contractor.