Don’t ignore these 7 red flags of roof damage caused by wind
It’s easy to overlook roof damage, especially when we’re relieved to see the sun after a stormy week. But frequent storms can cause serious harm, whether from hail or strong winds. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that wind can be damaging. Besides the obvious dangers, like fallen branches and uprooted trees, high winds can also harm your home’s structure.
While roofs are designed to withstand harsh weather, exceptionally strong storms can still cause damage. When accompanied by high-speed winds, the damage can be severe. You might be wondering, “How do I know if my roof has wind damage?” Luckily, there are signs to look out for.
In this blog, we will walk you through seven telltale signs indicating that your roof has wind damage and needs a roof repair service. Ready? Let’s get started!
Be Mindful of The Wind Speed
45 MPH
- When winds reach 45 MPH, they can cause minor damage, which is considered non-severe. These speeds might break off tree branches, leading them to puncture your roof.
If you notice branches on your roof after a storm, it’s a good idea to get help from a local roofing professional to remove the debris and check for any shingle damage.
55-73 MPH
- Severe winds, which fall between 55 and 73 MPH, can cause significant damage to buildings and landscaping. They can uproot trees, tear off shingles, and damage chimneys.
While most 3-tab asphalt shingles can handle winds up to 70 MPH, it’s essential to have a roofing company inspect your roof after such a storm to ensure the shingles are still in good shape.
74 MPH
- Winds exceeding 74 MPH can cause widespread damage, potentially flipping mobile homes and causing significant roof damage to residential and commercial buildings.
It’s strongly recommended to have a professional roofing company inspect your roof after storms with winds of this strength.
7 Signs Of Wind Damage On Roof You Should Look Out For
Lost Shingles
- One of the most evident signs of wind damage is missing roof shingles, often visible from the ground. Strong winds can lift and detach shingles from the roof, exposing the underlayment and leaving your home vulnerable to harsh weather.
Shingles act as a protective barrier for your roof, so it’s crucial to address missing shingles promptly. Schedule a roof inspection with a professional roofing company if you notice any missing shingles after a windstorm. They can assess the damage and determine if a simple repair, like reattaching the missing shingles, will suffice.
Curling or Buckling Shingles
- Curling or buckling shingles are another clear indicator of significant roof damage, often caused by the stress of high winds and other factors. Curling shingles show a noticeable upward curl at the edges while buckling shingles will give a wavy or uneven appearance.
These issues tarnish the shingle’s capability to form a tight seal, leaving your roof susceptible to water infiltration and leaks. Poor installation, age, and extended contact with the elements all contribute to these problems.
- Moreover, the absence of protective granules on curled or buckled shingles accelerates the aging of your roof. If you ignore these warning signs, you are signing up for more extensive damage. This could potentially result in expensive repairs or even an entire roof replacement!
Loss of Granules
Granule loss is a sign of potential wood damage on your roof. Asphalt shingles are coated with tiny granules that protect against the sun’s UV rays and add durability to the roofing material.
- However, strong winds can dislodge these granules, causing them to accumulate in gutters or at the base of downspouts.
When granules are lost, shingles become vulnerable to further damage and premature aging. Without this protective layer, shingles are more likely to suffer from UV degradation, leading to issues like cracking and curling. If left unaddressed, granule loss can compromise the shingles’ integrity, potentially causing leaks, water damage, and higher repair costs.
- To prevent these problems, it’s important to inspect your roof and address granule loss promptly and regularly. Timely repairs can help extend the life of your roof and avoid costly issues down the line.
Water Infiltration
When your roof leaks, it’s a sign of serious damage that needs immediate attention. After a strong wind, check inside your home for signs of water infiltration. Damaged shingles or flashing can let water seep into your ceilings and attic.
- If you see water stains on your ceilings or walls or active leaks after a storm, don’t wait to act. Neglecting these signs can lead to major structural damage, mold growth, and health risks for you and your family.
Fixing leaks and stains early can prevent more damage to your home’s interior, insulation, and electrical systems. To keep your home safe and avoid costly repairs, hire a professional roofing contractor. They’ll find the source of the leaks and fix them right.
Damage to Flashing
- When wind damages your roof, one critical area to check is the flashing. Flashing is a thin metal installed around chimneys, vents, and other openings to keep water out.
Strong winds might damage or lift the flashing, leaving your roof vulnerable to leaks. Fixing damaged flashing quickly can protect your home from water damage and maintain your roof’s protection.
Drooping Roof
- A drooping roof is a critical problem that can arise due to wind damage and other underlying issues. This indicates severe structural damage that requires immediate attention.
Various factors, such as wind stress, age, and lack of maintenance, can weaken the roof’s support structure, leading to sagging.
- A drooping roof is not only unsightly, but it can also pose a danger and cause additional damage to your home’s interior and foundation. To avoid hazards and expensive repairs, it’s crucial to get in touch with a professional roofer immediately for a thorough evaluation and necessary repairs.
Accumulation of Debris
After a storm, your roof is typically littered with debris, such as branches, leaves, and other foreign objects. Neglecting to remove this debris can lead to clogged gutters and drainage issues, which can cause water to accumulate on your roof.
- This, in turn, can exacerbate the damage to your roof over time, as the weight of the water-soaked debris can weaken the structural integrity of your roof and cause it to sag or even collapse in severe cases.
Additionally, the accumulation of debris on your roof can create a breeding ground for pests and insects, which can cause further damage to your roof or even infest your home. Therefore, it’s important to remove all debris from your roof as soon as possible after a storm to prevent these issues from occurring.
Are you worried about the signs of damage your roof has been showing after that last windstorm? Don’t ignore them! Taking action now can prevent further damage and save you money in the long run. To ensure that your roof is in top shape, it’s crucial to contact a local roofing contractor for a thorough inspection.
If you’re in the Washington, DC, area, we recommend contacting Dupont Roofing for a free roof evaluation. We understand the importance of having a reliable roofing contractor and take pride in our work.
Don’t wait any longer! Contact Dupont Roofing today at (202) 840-8698 or fill out our website form for assistance. Let us help you protect your home and keep your roof in top condition.
