Storm Damage vs. Normal Wear: How to Tell the Difference on Your Memphis,TN Roof

Lindsey Chamberlin
Oct 7
3 min read

Roofing Memphis, TN Guide to Identifying Real Damage After a Storm

Roofing Memphis, TN: Why the Difference Matters

After a heavy storm, it’s common for homeowners to glance at their roof and wonder — “Is that storm damage or just wear and tear?” It’s a crucial question, because the answer determines whether insurance will cover your repairs.

At NextRoof, we’ve inspected hundreds of roofing Memphis, TN homes after storms, and we’ve seen it all — from legitimate wind and hail damage to roofs that simply aged over time. Understanding the difference can help you make informed decisions, avoid claim denials, and protect your home.

What Storm Damage Looks Like on Roofing Memphis, TN Homes

Storm damage is sudden, distinct, and typically caused by one event — high winds, hail, or flying debris. Common signs include:

Missing or Lifted Shingles – Wind gusts can loosen or tear off shingles entirely, exposing roof decking.
Hail Impact Marks – Hailstones leave round, soft bruises or black spots on shingles where granules are missing.
Creased Shingles – Wind bends shingles upward, creating visible lines or folds across the surface.
Damaged Flashing – Loose or bent metal around chimneys, skylights, or vents.
Gutter Dents or Granule Buildup – Hail often leaves dings in gutters or fills them with loose shingle granules.

Storm damage usually appears quickly — even overnight — and requires prompt roofing Memphis, TN attention to prevent leaks or rot.

What Normal Wear and Tear Looks Like

In contrast, normal roof wear happens gradually over years due to Memphis’s hot summers, humidity, and age. Signs of wear include:

Fading Shingle Color – Prolonged sun exposure lightens the roof’s surface.
Granule Loss in Older Roofs – Aging shingles naturally shed granules, especially near gutters.
Cracked or Curled Edges – Repeated temperature changes cause shingles to dry out and curl.
Minor Moss or Algae Growth – Common in shaded or humid areas, especially after rainy seasons.
Small Nail Pops – Raised nails that haven’t compromised the shingle seal yet.

These signs indicate the roof is aging, not necessarily damaged — and may not qualify for insurance coverage.

Roofing Memphis, TN: Why Professional Inspections Matter

It’s not always easy to tell storm damage from natural wear, especially from the ground. A photo-documented roofing Memphis, TN inspection from a certified contractor is the best way to know for sure.

At NextRoof, our team uses drones and high-resolution images to identify every detail, including:

Subtle hail bruising invisible to the naked eye
Lifted shingles caused by wind pressure
Hidden flashing or sealant issues
Moisture intrusion signs under the surface

We’ll show you exactly what we find, so you can file your insurance claim with confidence — or rest easy knowing your roof is simply aging normally.

How Timing Affects Roofing Memphis, TN Claims

If storm damage is suspected, time is critical. Most insurance policies require claims within a set window after the event — often 6–12 months. Waiting too long can allow damage to worsen and reduce your chances of coverage.

A prompt roofing Memphis, TN inspection ensures:

Accurate storm-date documentation
Early repair before leaks begin
Protection from denied or delayed claims

Trust NextRoof to Identify the Difference

When it comes to roofing Memphis, TN, experience matters. Our team knows the difference between genuine storm damage and normal wear — and we’ll always give you an honest assessment.

We offer: