8 Warning Signs Your Roof Needs Repair After a Storm

Storms can leave your home looking fine at first glance, but that doesn’t mean your roof didn’t take a hit. Living on or near the coast means heavy rain, strong winds, and salty air are all regular guests—and your roof is their first line of defence.

Whether it’s a summer downpour or one of those gusty, unrelenting storms we know all too well, even a solid roof can show wear and tear. So what does your roof need? The first rule is: know what to look for! The second, don’t put off action if it’s needed there and then. Another storm may follow soon!

Here are the key warning signs your roof might need repair after a storm—plus a few lesser-known issues you might not think to check.

1. Water Stains and Damp Patches Inside the House

No need to break out the ladder right away!

The first place to check for roof damage isn’t actually outside—it’s inside. Walk through your house and keep an eye out for any water stains on ceilings or damp patches on walls.

Even small, discoloured spots could mean water has found its way through the roof.

Storms can force rain into gaps you didn’t even know existed, and leaks don’t always make themselves obvious right away. Sometimes, water travels along beams or insulation before it drips down, so the actual source of the leak might be nowhere near where the stain appears.

In other words, you’ll need some detective skills to track the water back to its source. But if it’s on the ceiling, you can be 99% positive that it begins in the roof.

Tip: If you spot a stain after a storm, don’t just paint over it and hope for the best. Get your roof checked before it worsens.

2. Missing, Cracked, or Loose Tiles

A simple visual once-over of your roof (from the ground or using binoculars—leave the ladder to the pros) can reveal a lot. Missing tiles, cracked pieces, or tiles that seem a bit wonky are classic signs of storm damage. High winds can lift tiles, while driving rain can weaken the cement holding ridge tiles in place.

For roofs around Perth, where the salty air accelerates wear, loose or missing tiles need quick attention. A small gap is all it takes for rain to start working its way inside.

Tip: Roof tiles often get dislodged in a pattern during storms. Wind hits one side of the house more forcefully, meaning damage is often concentrated on one section of the roof. But putting the tiles back, even if they are undamaged, isn’t exactly a no-brainer. The bedding underneath will often get damaged or shifted too, so it will need repair too.

3. Guttering Issues

Gutters aren’t the most obvious place to look, nor do they feel like an integral part of the roof. Still, they’re one of the most common areas to take a beating during storms. Likewise, storms are one of the major culprits for damaged gutters!

Blocked or damaged gutters can send rainwater spilling over the sides instead of directing it safely away.

Check for these signs:

• Sagging gutters: The weight of heavy rain or debris can cause gutters to pull away from the roof.
• Leaks or cracks: Even small splits mean water can escape and pool where you don’t want it.
• Detached downspouts: If water isn’t being directed properly, it could damage your walls or foundation.

And don’t forget the less obvious signs—like water marks on the outside walls or pools of water collecting near the house.

4. Debris on the Roof

After a storm, take a look at what’s sitting on your roof. Twigs, leaves, or larger branches might seem harmless, but they can hide (quite literally!) bigger problems underneath. For example, a mightier bough that hit your roof might have cracked some of the tiles or dent metal sheets, letting water in.

But it’s not just branches you need to pay attention to. Even smaller and lighter debris like leaves can be an issue if you leave them collecting in one area, trapping moisture and encouraging mould growth. Over time, this can speed up wear and tear on your roofing materials.

What to do: If you see large debris, avoid climbing up to remove it yourself. A professional can safely check for hidden damage while clearing it away.

5. Flashing That’s Seen Better Days

Roof flashing is the thin metal material that seals joints around chimneys, vents, and skylights, keeping water out of those vulnerable spots.

Well, even though it acts as a seal, it isn’t safe from storm either. It can come loose, crack, or even blow away altogether.

To make things trickier, damaged flashing isn’t always obvious if you don’t know what to look for. If it’s bent, lifted or rusted, it’s no longer doing what it should, and water can creep in around these areas. It’s a small detail that can lead to big leaks if you leave it alone.

6. Internal Drafts or Sudden Temperature Changes

This might sound odd, but if your house feels draughtier than usual after a storm, your roof might be to blame. Wind and rain can cause minor gaps or cracks that let air through. So if you suddenly notice cold spots in winter or feel like your air-con isn’t working as well as it used to, it’s worth looking up!

This is especially relevant for metal roofing, which can flex during strong winds, loosening joints or panels.

7. Check the Roof Valleys

Roof valleys—the sections where two slopes meet—are some of the hardest-working parts of your roof. They handle a lot of water during heavy rain, funnelling it down to the gutters. If a storm has damaged the valleys, water can pool or seep through into your roof space.

Look for any signs of debris buildup, cracked tiles, or rusted areas if you have a metal roof. Valleys need to stay clear and intact to do their job properly.

8. The “Odd Noises” Test

You might think your roof looks fine, but if you hear rattling or tapping noises during a breeze, it’s worth investigating. Storms can loosen tiles, metal sheets, or flashing, and even a small amount of movement can cause these parts to make noise in the wind.

A roof that’s been damaged will often let you know—you just need to listen.

Why It’s Important to Act Quickly

It’s tempting to put off roof repairs, especially if the signs don’t seem serious. But small problems don’t stay small for long. A tiny crack can turn into a major leak after the next big storm, and loose tiles can cause damage to other parts of your home.

In Fremantle, where the combination of storms and salty air speeds up wear and tear, getting on top of repairs early can save you thousands in the long run. Plus, knowing your roof is solid means one less thing to worry about when the next storm rolls through.

Final Thoughts

Storms have a way of testing your roof’s limits, and even minor damage can cause headaches if left unchecked. After a big storm, take a moment to check for the signs—from water stains inside to loose tiles, gutter issues, and debris. The earlier you catch the warning signs, the easier (and cheaper) the fix will be.

And if you’re not sure? Call in a professional to take a look. They’ll spot the issues you might miss and make sure your roof is ready for whatever Mother Nature decided to throw at it next.