
Storms in Niles, Michigan can strike with little warning—bringing wind, hail, and heavy rain that wreak havoc on commercial roofs. As a property owner or facility manager, one of the most urgent questions you may face after a storm is: Does this count as storm damage on my roof?
Understanding what qualifies as storm damage is critical not only for initiating timely repairs but also for filing accurate insurance claims. At Armor Commercial Roofing, we help building owners make informed decisions when it comes to identifying and responding to storm-related roofing damage. If you’re concerned about your roof, call us today at (517) 617-6953 for an expert inspection.
What Counts as Storm Damage on a Roof? A Property Owner’s Guide
Signs of Storm Damage on Your Commercial Roof
Storm damage isn’t always obvious from the ground—or even right after the storm. Yet hidden damage can lead to long-term issues like leaks, insulation deterioration, mold, and even structural instability. So, what exactly qualifies as storm damage on a commercial roof?
Wind Damage
Warning signs include detached or flapping roof materials, wrinkled or torn membrane seams, displaced flashing or coping metal, and uplifted HVAC units or other rooftop structures.
Hail Impact

Hail damage often goes unnoticed until leaks start appearing. On metal roofs, hail can dent panels or break protective coatings, exposing the metal to moisture and corrosion. On membrane roofs, hail may cause punctures that are hard to spot but allow water to infiltrate.
Warning signs:
- Dents on metal panels or vents
- Blisters or soft spots in membranes
- Cracked skylights or pipe boots
Water Infiltration from Heavy Rain
A storm doesn’t have to be windy or bring hail to damage your roof. Continuous or heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, causing water to pond on the roof. Over time, standing water leads to membrane degradation or causes seams to split.
Warning signs:
- Water stains on ceilings or walls
- Interior leaks
- Clogged or overflowing drains and scuppers
Fast Roof Inspections After Storms Matter in Niles, MI
Many commercial building owners in Niles, Michigan assume that if their roof isn’t leaking immediately after a storm, it’s fine. Unfortunately, this isn’t always the case. Some forms of storm damage take days, weeks, or even months to reveal themselves—and by then, they’ve already caused internal damage.
That’s why a post-storm inspection by a professional roofing contractor is so essential. At Armor Commercial Roofing, our team conducts thorough assessments to determine whether damage is cosmetic or structural, if the roof remains watertight, and whether the damage is severe enough to justify an insurance claim. Documenting the damage early not only protects your building but can also be essential evidence when working with insurance adjusters.
How to Handle Storm Damage Insurance Claims
One of the most frustrating aspects of storm damage can be navigating your insurance coverage. Here’s how to make the process smoother:
Document Immediately: Take photos of any visible damage and interior leaks as soon as it’s safe.
Get a Professional Report: A roofing contractor’s assessment can be used to support your claim.
Don’t Delay: Most policies require claims to be filed within a specific time after the storm.
Know What’s Covered: Most commercial policies cover wind, hail, and water intrusion—but may exclude damage due to poor maintenance.
Being proactive, rather than reactive, often makes the difference between full and partial coverage.
Schedule a Storm Damage Roof Inspection in Niles, MI
Storm damage doesn’t always come with a dramatic collapse or flood—it often begins subtly. That’s why it’s crucial for commercial property owners in Niles, Michigan to understand what storm damage looks like and take action quickly. Early detection and professional inspections can save thousands in repairs and help you avoid business interruptions.
If your building has experienced recent weather events, don’t wait for visible damage to appear. Call Armor Commercial Roofing today at (517) 617-6953 for a detailed roof inspection and guidance on your next steps.
FAQ
How soon should I inspect my roof after a storm?
It’s best to schedule a professional inspection within 24–72 hours of the storm, especially if there were high winds or hail.
Can storm damage be hidden?
Yes. Not all storm damage is visible from the ground or even the rooftop. Issues like membrane punctures or internal leaks may take time to become noticeable.
Will insurance cover all types of storm damage?
Typically, commercial insurance covers wind, hail, and water damage. However, pre-existing wear and poor maintenance may not be covered.
What happens if I delay repairs after noticing damage?
Delaying repairs can worsen the problem and may also void warranty coverage or reduce the amount your insurance provider is willing to reimburse.
What’s included in a professional storm damage inspection?
A proper inspection includes visual evaluation, moisture scanning, documentation for insurance, and recommendations for repair or replacement.