Indiana’s storm season is no joke. With heavy rains, 75+ mph winds, and tornadoes sweeping through regions like Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and Evansville, your roof faces relentless threats. As a homeowner in the Hoosier State, proactive roof maintenance isn’t just smart—it’s essential to avoid costly storm damage repairs. Below, we’ll share six actionable tips to fortify your roof against Indiana’s unpredictable weather, plus local insights to keep your family safe.

1. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection 

Why Indiana Homes Need Annual Inspections
Indiana’s freeze-thaw cycles and summer hailstorms can warp shingles and weaken flashing over time. A licensed Indiana roofing contractor like Kavlan Contracting can spot hidden issues like:

• Curling or cracked shingles (common after Midwest winters)

• Soft spots from water damage

• Loose flashing around chimneys or vents

Did You Know?
Repairing minor issues early can save homeowners $1,200+ in emergency storm damage repairs. Schedule your pre-storm season inspection before April—when Indiana’s severe weather risks peak.

2. Clean Gutters & Downspouts 

Avoid Costly Indiana Flooding
Clogged gutters are a leading cause of basement floods in cities like South Bend and Bloomington after heavy rains. To protect your roof:

• Clear leaves, pine needles, and debris (aim for twice a year)

• Ensure downspouts direct water 6+ feet away from your foundation

• Install gutter guards if you’re near wooded areas (e.g., Brown County)

3. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches 

Indiana Storm Risk: Falling Limbs
In 2023, 42% of storm-related roof claims in Central Indiana involved tree damage. Before storm season:

• Trim branches within 10 feet of your roof

• Remove dead trees (common in older neighborhoods like Indianapolis’ Irvington)

• Partner with an arborist if limbs are near power lines

4. Replace Damaged Shingles ASAP 

Spot Indiana-Specific Shingle Damage
High winds in the Wabash Valley and hail in Terre Haute can tear off shingles. Look for:

• Granule loss (check gutters for accumulation)

• Cracks or tears from ice dams

• Missing shingles (replace within 1–2 weeks to prevent leaks)

Pro Tip: Use impact-resistant shingles (Class 4 rated) if you’re in hail-prone areas like Noblesville.

5. Reinforce Flashing & Sealants 

Target Indiana’s #1 Leak Source
Wind-driven rain exploits weak flashing. Focus on:

• Chimneys (common in older Indianapolis homes)

• Skylights and roof valleys

• Vent pipes

Apply elastomeric sealant (rated for Midwest temperature swings) to gaps.

6. Create a Storm Emergency Plan 

Be Ready for Indiana’s Worst-Case Scenarios
Even with prep, tornadoes like the 2022 Martinsville EF-2 can strike. Your plan should include:

• Emergency tarping steps to prevent water intrusion

• Contact info for 24/7 Indiana storm damage repair services

• Insurance claim checklist (keep photos of your pre-storm roof)

Indiana Storm Roof Prep FAQs 

Q: How often should I inspect my roof in Indiana?
A: Twice a year—before storm season (April) and after fall leaf drop.

Q: Does homeowners insurance cover storm damage in Indiana?
A: Most policies cover wind/hail damage, but exclude wear-and-tear. Document maintenance to avoid claim denials.

Q: What’s the #1 storm risk for Indiana roofs?
A: Wind uplift—high gusts can tear off poorly secured shingles.

Protect Your Indiana Home with Kavlan Contracting 

Don’t wait for the next storm warning. Schedule Your Roof Inspection today!