Signs Your Roof Has Wind Damage
The most damage done to roofs during storms is wind damage. Wind can pull up shingles, while rain seeps in underneath. Even hail can cause damage when it puts small dents and holes into your roof. Lucky for you, your roof is tough and can make it through most storms just fine. However, that one storm can cause some damage. When that happens, you want to get on top of repairing it quickly to prevent any further, more costly issues. Check for the signs of roof damage after big storms by checking for these issues.
Roof Leaks
Sometimes, the best way to find a roof problem is to look at your ceilings and walls. If the shingles are compromised, rain can get past them, and you’ll end up with water damage. Usually, this problem starts small and grows. Any time you see discoloration on the ceiling or walls, there’s a good chance your roof needs some love. Similarly, if you smell mold that you can’t see, then you probably have moisture between your walls. This isn’t always from a roof leak, but it’s one possibility.
Remember that water damage is one of the biggest reasons we have roofs. While many leaks start small, if they are left alone, the damage will accumulate, and you will end up with a major problem. Always nip leaks in the bud as quickly as possible.
Shingle Granules in Downspouts and Roof Valleys
Heavy winds and rain can wash the stone grit away from asphalt shingles making them less durable and prone to further damage. The granules on your shingles will wear and thin over time. High winds and strong rains can wash the granules away from the shingle. There’s no need to be worried about minor or barely visible granule loss. The real warning sign is when you see horizontal lines. The granules rub off when the shingle flaps in the wind and crashes into other shingles on the roof.
They can look like bare spots or cracks. When this happens, you may see dark bands running along your roof or black patches where the tar has been exposed. These lines are showing you that the seal on your shingle broke. As always, if you notice excessive shingle granule loss on some parts of your roof, call a professional immediately to repair the roof.
Missing or Damaged Shingles
This is the most obvious sign. One or two missing shingles are fairly normal and easy to address because the problem is simple. You should not ignore this though, because it’s a sign your shingle system is losing its wind-proof capabilities.
If the wind tear-off is extensive, such as when the shingles are getting torn off in different parts of the roof, and you can actually see the wind lifting your shingles, then it might be time to consider a roof replacement. When the shingles lift, it breaks the sealant between each layer potentially allowing water to enter. It also pulls on the nails, creating a loose shingle. Wind damage restoration can be covered by your roof insurance, so when you suspect damage after high winds, schedule a roof inspection.
Curling Shingles on the Roof
As shingles age, they will curl a bit. However, if you suddenly see curling or see a lot of curling after a storm, it’s not a good sign. When the shingles curl up a lot, it creates another opening for water to seep into during the next storm.
Compared to missing shingles, curling shingles can be more difficult to spot from ground level. With that in mind, call a roofing contractor to inspect and repair your roof immediately as curled shingles can no longer prevent water from seeping through your roofing system, making it more vulnerable to leaks.
Damaged Flashing Around Chimneys and Pipes
Strong winds can also pull up on chimney flashing and the flashing around pipes and skylights. Flashings are the thin strips that you’ll find on your roofing’s most vulnerable parts, such as the valleys and hips. They’re usually made of metal and sealed with tar to keep water away, but they’re highly susceptible to getting damaged or even torn off by strong winds. If you notice your flashings are missing parts or are completely gone due to wind damage, then the rest of your roof is not far behind.
If you can see them, check whether the metal flashing is split or missing. The cracks between your exhaust pipes and the shingles will be open for water and unwanted critters to enter.
Visible Debris on the Roof
Even a small amount of visible debris, such as a few branches, could have caused damage when it hit the roof. You may try to remove the debris to see what the shingles look like underneath. Just be safe when you do so. Avoid walking on the roof, if you can. A roofing contractor can quickly remove the debris during an inspection and check the shingles underneath for wind damage for you.
Divots
This issue is far more common with hail, but it’s not impossible with the wind. Besides, knowing how to spot hail damage won’t hurt you. Divots typically form at the edge of your shingles when they’re hit by several blunt impacts. You can see why hail is usually the culprit, but high winds can bang things into your shingles too.
Divots often come with broken seals, which is no good. If you have divots, it’s important to get your roof a checkup. It’s worth talking to your insurance company. Sometimes, they’ll help you get an inspection, as they would much rather help you pay for an inspection and minor repair than shell out money for a major repair later.
Final Thoughts
Wind damage to your roof can get so bad that you may even need to replace the whole thing. Always have a professional roofing company inspect your roof after a severe storm. Staying on top of damage will save you money in the long run. Make it easier on yourself by calling us at 636-699-0449.