How to tell if high winds damaged your roof

ROOF WIND DAMAGE

Recognizing Wind Damage to Your Roof

High winds can cause significant damage to your roof, leaving it vulnerable to leaks and other issues. In this article, we'll discuss the signs of wind damage, how to inspect your roof, preventative measures you can take, and what to do if you suspect wind damage. By being proactive and aware of potential problems, you can protect your home and save on costly repairs. Before inspecting your roof, it's crucial to know what signs indicate potential wind damage. Here are common indicators when inspecting your roof, look for the following:

  • Loose or damaged shingles

  • Missing or bent flashing

  • Cracked or broken shingles

  • Exposed nails or nail heads

  • Damaged or missing vent caps

Missing or Damaged Shingles

High winds can lift or tear shingles from your roof. Look for missing, cracked, or curled shingles as well as exposed nails or loose granules.

Damaged Flashing

Wind can also damage the metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Inspect these areas for signs of bending, separation, or rust.

Sagging or Leaks

If you notice sagging or leaks in your attic or ceiling, it may be due to wind damage compromising your roof's structure.

Missing Shingles

One of the most obvious signs of wind damage is missing shingles. If you notice any shingles missing from your roof after a storm, it's likely that the wind has torn them off.

Curling or Lifting Shingles

Curling or lifting shingles are another sign of wind damage. This can occur when the wind gets under the edges of the shingles, causing them to lift or curl away from the roof.

Damaged Flashing

Flashing is a thin metal strip that protects the seams and joints of your roof from water penetration. Wind damage can cause the flashing to become bent or detached, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks.

Granule Loss

Asphalt shingles are coated with small granules that protect them from UV rays and help extend their lifespan. If you notice an excessive amount of granules in your gutters or on the ground around your home after a storm, it may be a sign that your shingles have sustained wind damage.

Leaks and Water Damage

Wind damage can create openings in your roof, allowing water to infiltrate your home. If you notice water stains on your ceilings or walls, or if you see water dripping from your roof during a rainstorm, it's possible that wind damage is the culprit.

The Importance of Regular Roof Inspections

Regular roof inspections are essential to maintaining the health of your home. By identifying and addressing issues early, you can prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your roof.

Annual Inspections

We recommend conducting a thorough roof inspection at least once a year, ideally after the stormy season.

Post-Storm Inspections

In addition to annual checks, inspect your roof after any severe weather events, such as high winds or hailstorms, to assess potential damage.

How to Perform a Thorough Roof Inspection

Follow these steps to conduct a comprehensive roof inspection:

  1. Examine the Attic: Begin your inspection indoors by looking for water stains, leaks, or sagging in your attic or ceiling.

  2. Inspect the Exterior: Walk around the perimeter of your home, searching for signs of damage to shingles, flashing, and gutters.

  3. Check the Roof Surface: Safely access your roof using a ladder or drone and examine all areas for missing or damaged shingles, flashing, or vents.

  4. Document Your Findings: Take photos or videos of any damage you discover to aid in the repair process and for insurance purposes.

Assessing the Severity of Roof Damage

After completing your inspection, it's time to evaluate the severity of any damage. Consider the following factors:

  • Extent of Damage: Assess the size and scope of the damage, including the number of affected shingles and the presence of leaks or structural issues.

  • Age of Roof: Older roofs are more prone to damage and may require replacement rather than repairs.

  • Material and Quality: High-quality roofing materials and installation methods are more resistant to wind damage and can impact your decision to repair or replace.

Repair or Replace: What to Do Next

Based on your assessment, determine if your roof requires repair or replacement

Roof Repair

If the damage is limited to a few shingles or a small section of flashing, repair may be the most cost-effective solution. Contact a professional roofing contractor to assess the situation and provide an estimate for repairs.

Roof Replacement

In cases of extensive damage, an aging roof, or poor-quality materials, a full roof replacement may be necessary. Consult with a reputable roofing contractor to determine the best course of action and receive a quote for a new roof installation.

Preventing Future Wind Damage

To minimize the risk of wind damage in the future, consider these preventative measures:

Select High-Quality Materials

Investing in high-quality roofing materials can increase your roof's resistance to wind damage. Look for materials with a high wind rating, such as architectural shingles or metal roofing.

Ensure Proper Installation

Work with a licensed and experienced roofing contractor to ensure that your roof is installed correctly. Proper installation includes using the correct number of nails per shingle, sealing seams, and installing flashing correctly.

Maintain Your Roof

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning gutters and trimming overhanging tree branches, can help prevent wind damage by reducing debris buildup and minimizing the risk of falling limbs.

Conclusion

Detecting and addressing wind damage to your roof is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of your home. By recognizing the signs of damage, conducting regular inspections, and taking appropriate action, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure the longevity of your roof. Don't forget to invest in high-quality materials, proper installation, and ongoing maintenance to minimize the risk of future wind damage.

According to the National Weather Service, slight damage can begin when winds reach 45 mph, but this range is considered “non-severe”. These non-severe winds may cause some tree branches to break off and can cause damage to already loose or susceptible shingles.

58 - 74 mph

This is when winds turn severe and cause significant damage to landscaping and structures. At this range, wind will take down whole tree limbs, begin to uproot trees, rip off shingles that were in good condition and cause issues with chimneys.

75+ mph

At this speed, wind will cause widespread damage to trees, flip mobile homes and cause significant roof damage to commercial buildings and homes.

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