Wind moving across a roof can have a different effect than if it were uniform. Wind pressures can vary between areas such as the perimeter and corners of a roof. The center of the roof may have lower winds, but they are more susceptible to high wind pressures. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), most wind damage to a roof starts on the edge. Wind can reach the roof’s edges and pull it upwards, causing it to become looser. This type of wind damage may appear very small at first, but it can grow as a result of repeated wind exposure. Rain can enter if a corner of the insulation is exposed and cause water damage and leaks. This type of wind damage can be avoided by homeowners making sure that the roof’s corners and edges are strong enough to withstand high winds.
Tree Damage and Flying Debris
Debris can also be moved by significant wind events, which could cause damage to your roof. Sometimes, the wind can cause more damage than the glass and branches from trees, or other debris. Investigate what debris might have fallen onto the roof or across it after a storm. It’s also a good idea to check your gutters, downspouts, and drains for debris that can clog them. This could lead to other problems down the line. Trees should be kept away from your roof. When branches of trees touch a roof, they can scratch or gouge roofing materials. Overhanging tree branches can fall on roofing materials and cause damage or a puncture.
How to check for Roof Wind Damage
Do an outdoor inspection: Check for damaged or missing shingles on your roof and around your property. Roof repairs may be possible if the damage is limited to a small area (i.e. it does not cover more than 30% of the roof’s entire surface). More extensive damage might necessitate roof replacement. Remember that the roof can be damaged not only by the chimney and ventilation pipes but also by the gutter flashing, gutters, fencing, flashing, roof flashing, roof flashing, gutters, and roof flashing. You should inspect them for any damage.
Here’s a list of things to look out for if you suspect your roof may be damaged:
- Composition Shingles: Curling, loss of granulation, and broken, damaged, or missing shingles
- Wood shakes/shingles: Mold, decay, splitting, and curling
- Flat roof – Obvious cracks, tears, or obvious patches. Also, many blisters and/or lines.
- Flashing – Tears, buckling about roof penetrations
- Roofing Cement: Exceed cement, crumbling
- Soffits Fascia: Decay and stains
- Ridge vents and soffit: Damaged or clogged vents, flashing or shingles around them curling or missing
- Gutters: Leakage or decay, rusty seams, loosely attached or sagging to structure, missing or damaged sections of gutters or downspouts, and filled with debris. Clogged gutters can cause problems such as excessive weight, slippery walking, and ice damming.
- Chimneys: Leaning, missing or loose flashing, cracked or damaged joints, cap or cracking bricks. Because a chimney settles independently from the house, flashing on chimneys is more likely to tear.
- Conduct an indoor inspection: Moisture marks (brown, yellow, or grey stains), peeling paint on walls, ceilings, and ceilings may all be signs of a damaged or leaking roof. Check your attic for leaks or damp rafters. If you notice an abrupt increase in energy bills, this could indicate that your roof ventilation is compromised.
- Hire a professional: To have your roof inspected by a professional, call a roofing company. It is not recommended to climb on your roof by yourself as this can cause injury to you and further damage to your home. Also, a trained professional has the safety and tools to inspect your roof for any damage.
What to do if your roof has suffered wind damage
Roof damage from wind or flying debris should be repaired immediately. The more you delay, the more damage that will result. Roof repair and replacement costs are much lower if you don’t have the additional costs of water damage and leak repair. To assess your situation and decide if you should file a claim, contact your insurance agent. Document all damage and keep receipts. These receipts will be helpful in determining whether you are eligible for reimbursement. These expenses can be covered by many policies if they are submitted along with a claim.
This post was written by a roofing professional at KCG Roofing. KCG Roofing is a premier roofing contractor in Florida! KCG Roofing has the experience and expertise to replace or repair your roof with quality materials and excellent craftsmanship. All our roofs are backed by a 15-year leak-free guarantee, the highest in the industry. We have been family-owned and operated for over 40 years. Click here to learn more.