Strong winds are nothing new in Bemidji—whether it’s spring storms off Lake Bemidji or winter gusts blowing across the open prairie. But after a storm passes, many homeowners are left wondering what exactly to say when calling a roofer.
What details matter most?
How can you be sure they understand the full extent of the damage?
If you live near Paul Bunyan Drive, Irvine Avenue, or in neighborhoods like Nymore or Northern Township, knowing how to communicate clearly with your roofer can help speed up repairs, support your insurance claim, and ultimately protect your home from more serious issues down the line.
Remember these six key things to share that can make your roofer’s job easier and your repairs more effective.
Key Takeaways
- Telling your roofer exactly when the storm hit helps link the damage to specific wind-related weather events.
- Noticing lifted shingles, ceiling stains, or attic drafts can point to hidden roof damage needing professional inspection.
- Sharing photos or videos of your roof after the storm helps contractors and insurers see the full damage timeline.
- Mentioning old repairs or leak-prone areas gives roofers a head start in checking common trouble spots more closely.
- Letting your roofer know about an insurance claim early helps them gather the right evidence from the beginning.
Be Specific About When the Wind Damage Happened
Start by telling your roofer when the windstorm occurred—even if it was a few days ago.
Linking the damage to a specific weather event (like a late April cold front or an early summer thunderstorm) helps the roofer distinguish between storm-related problems and age-related wear.
If you noticed anything unusual during the storm, like shingles lifting, sudden drips, or rattling noises from the attic, mention that too.
These details help your roofer pinpoint vulnerable areas, understand how the wind likely impacted your home, and plan out your storm damage roof repair.
Describe What You’ve Seen So Far
You don’t have to get on the roof—just share what you’ve observed from the ground. After a storm, even small signs can hint at bigger issues, so be thorough. Look for:
- Shingles or roof pieces in your yard
- Dark water stains on interior ceilings or walls
- Granules collecting in gutters or downspouts
- Drafts or odd noises in the attic
In wide-open neighborhoods like Lavinia or near Lake Bemidji State Park, winds can curl or lift shingles subtly, so mention anything that feels off—even if you’re not sure it’s related.
Once you’ve shared what you know, your roofer can take a closer look and assess what may not be immediately visible from the ground.
Share Photos or Videos (If You Have Them)
If you snapped a few photos or short videos after the storm—of fallen shingles, scattered debris, or even just a wide shot of your roof—send them to your roofer. Visuals provide helpful context and can highlight damage progression, especially after fast-moving storms where time is of the essence.
Even if the images seem minor to you, they can offer a clearer picture for the contractor and support documentation for insurance purposes.
Mention Any Previous Repairs or Problem Areas
Next, let your roofer know if your home has had roof work done in the past. Certain spots—around chimneys, skylights, or vents—may already be known weak points.
If you’ve had leaks, repairs, or patch jobs in those areas, sharing that history helps the contractor avoid unnecessary work and focus their inspection more effectively.
Older homes in Bemidji, particularly those built before the 2000s, often have legacy trouble areas that resurface after storms.
The more history your roofer knows, the better equipped they are to make durable fixes.
Tell Them If You’re Filing an Insurance Claim
If you’re planning to file a claim with your homeowner’s insurance, bring it up early.
Many roofers will tailor their inspection and documentation to meet insurer requirements—taking detailed notes, photos, and measurements that make the claims process smoother.
Homeowners near the Bemidji Regional Airport or east of Anne Street have had successful claim experiences when contractors provided clear evidence of storm-related damage.
A roofer who understands insurance documentation can save you both time and stress.
Ask About Local Wind Risks and Roofing Options
Before wrapping up your conversation, take the opportunity to ask your roofer how local wind patterns affect roofing materials in Bemidji.
Areas near lakes or open fields—like Turtle River or near Movil Lake—tend to experience stronger, more consistent gusts.
Ask about materials designed to resist wind damage, such as architectural or asphalt shingles or metal roofing.
If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, an upgrade may offer better long-term protection, especially in Minnesota’s freeze-thaw climate.
Get Wind Damage Handled Before It Gets Worse
What starts as a loose shingle can quickly turn into a leak, insulation issue, or structural concern—especially with Bemidji’s heavy snowfalls and rainy springs.
Don’t wait for the next storm to find out your roof wasn’t fully repaired.
At Back 40 Roofing, we live and work in northern Minnesota.
We understand how the wind flows through each part of Bemidji, how freeze-thaw cycles affect roof performance, and what damage matters most after a storm.
Whether your home is in town or tucked away in a rural stretch, we’ll inspect your roof thoroughly and explain your best options—no pressure.
Call today to schedule your wind damage inspection. Let’s keep your roof strong, safe, and ready for whatever comes next.
