In Northwest Louisiana, we know how fast the weather can turn. One minute it’s sunny, the next minute your trash can is halfway down the block and you’re wondering if your roof took a hit. Storms here aren’t just an inconvenience — they can do serious damage to your home’s most important shield: your roof. 

At Lockwood Roofing, we’ve seen it all. From heavy winds peeling back shingles like paper to hail so intense it looks like someone took a hammer to your roof. And the worst part? A lot of damage isn’t obvious right away. In fact, many homeowners don’t realize they’ve got a problem until water starts leaking into their attic or stains begin creeping across the ceiling. That’s why its so important to understand what storm damage looks like, how it happens, and what to do when it shows up. 

Storm Damage Isn’t Always Easy To Spot

It’s easy to assume your roof is fine if there is no obvious home or leak, but the truth is, most storm damage starts small. High winds can lift the edges of your shingles without tearing them off completely, allowing rainwater to creep in slowly over time. Hail can crack shingles or knock off the protective granules that shield them from sunlight, causing them to wear out faster. Even if you don’t see immediate problems, these subtle issues can lead to major repairs down the road, and they may not be covered by insurance if you wait too long.

Water is another major culprit. Once a roof is compromised, even a little, water starts making its way into the decking below, soaking insulation and creating the perfect environment for mold. You might not notice it right away, but over time, that moisture leads to soft spots in your roof’s structure, warped drywall, and even electrical issues. And let’s not forget about the gutters — when debris from a storm clogs up your drainage system, water backs up under the shingles, causing even more damage from the inside out.

Wind, Hail, and Heavy Rain: A Triple Threat

Different types of storms cause different kinds of damage. Wind is especially brutal here in Louisiana — gusts over 40 mph can rip up shingles, snap flashing loose, and toss tree limbs straight onto your house. The edges and corners of a roof are the most vulnerable, so if your home sits on a hill or takes the brunt of the wind during a storm, you’re at greater risk.

Then there’s hail. It doesn’t take grapefruit-sized chunks of ice to do damage — even smaller hailstones can leave dents, knock off granules, or fracture the layers of your shingles. You might not see it from the ground, but an up-close inspection usually tells a different story. These impacts weaken the structure of your shingles and allow UV rays and rain to break them down even faster.

Finally, there’s the rain itself. Once the protective barrier of your roof is compromised, even slightly, water becomes your worst enemy. It sneaks into the attic, behind walls, and into electrical systems, silently wreaking havoc. By the time water spots appear on your ceiling, the problem has likely been there for weeks — maybe even months.

Why Timing Matters More Than You Think

The biggest mistake homeowners make after a storm? Waiting. Even if you don’t see damage right away, or think, “It’s probably fine,” delaying an inspection could cost you. Not only does the damage get worse over time, but your insurance company may deny your claim if you wait too long to report it. Most policies require timely documentation of storm-related issues, and without a professional inspection, you may miss the window to file.

And unfortunately, storm damage is often not covered under your warranty if you don’t take proactive steps. Manufacturer warranties usually apply to defects, not outside damage — and insurance companies expect you to protect your home from further harm after a storm. That’s why having a trusted roofer on your side makes all the difference.

How Lockwood Roofing Can Help

When storms hit the Shreveport–Stonewall area, Lockwood Roofing is ready to respond. We offer comprehensive storm damage inspections that document everything clearly — including photos, a detailed report, and professional recommendations. If damage is found, we’ll help guide you through the next steps, including working with your insurance adjuster and making sure your roof gets the repair or replacement it needs, fast.

We never push unnecessary work. If your roof is in good shape, we’ll tell you. But if we find problems, we’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions, and help you protect your home before the next storm hits. Our team is local, experienced, and trusted by homeowners and businesses throughout Northwest Louisiana.

Final Thoughts: Be Proactive, Not Reactiv

Your roof protects everything underneath it — your family, your belongings, your investment. Storms don’t need to bring obvious destruction to cause big problems, which is why a post-storm inspection is always a smart move. Think of it as a routine check-up for your home — quick, affordable, and potentially lifesaving.

Whether you’ve just weathered a summer thunderstorm or a hurricane rolled through last night, don’t wait until the leaks start. Call Lockwood Roofing for peace of mind and expert advice. We’re here to help your home weather any storm.