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Wind Damage to Roof? Find & Fix It In 11 Steps

08.02.2024
8 minutes read

When a fierce wind storm sweeps through your neighborhood, it can leave your home’s roof vulnerable to damage. Whether it’s missing shingles, curled edges, or even structural issues, addressing wind damage promptly is essential to prevent further problems like leaks and water infiltration. It is important to inspect different roofing materials, such as asphalt shingles, after a storm to identify any potential damage.

Reach out to a local roofer you can trust for quick and reliable repairs when your roof isn’t looking its best!

But for now, follow along in this homeowner’s guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to identify and fix wind damage to your roof. Let’s get started on safeguarding your home from the elements!

Inside this blog:

  • Why taking care of wind damage ASAP matters

  • 11 steps to identify and fix wind damage on your roof

Ready to learn how to keep your home safe and tackle wind damage like a pro?! Read on!

Why Wind Damage Matters 💨

Understanding the significance of roof damage caused by wind is essential before delving into the steps to address it. Wind damage matters for several critical reasons that directly impact the safety, integrity, and efficiency of your home.

First and foremost, roof wind damage poses a risk to your home’s ability to keep water out. When the protective barrier of your roof is compromised, it allows water infiltration, which can lead to severe issues. Strong winds can lift the entire roof, leading to significant structural issues. Leaks resulting from wind-damaged areas of your roof can damage your home’s interior, including ceilings, walls, insulation, and even valuable belongings. These water intrusions can be costly to repair and may necessitate extensive renovations. By addressing wind damage promptly, you can prevent water infiltration and avoid the headaches and expenses associated with interior water damage.

Furthermore, neglecting wind damage can have far-reaching consequences, potentially leading to more significant structural issues in your home. When sections of your roof become loose or damaged due to high winds, they may weaken the overall structural integrity of the roof and the entire house. Over time, this can result in more extensive and costly roof repairs or even a complete roof replacement. 

Another crucial reason to address wind damage promptly is to enhance your home’s energy efficiency. A damaged roof can compromise insulation and ventilation, leading to higher energy bills. When wind damage allows air to infiltrate your home or disrupts the insulation, it can lead to increased heating and cooling costs. Maintaining your roof’s integrity through timely repairs ensures that your home remains energy-efficient, helping you save money on utility bills in the long run.

Understanding your homeowners insurance policy is also essential to be prepared for potential wind damage. Knowing what specific roof damage is covered can better prepare homeowners for future weather-related issues.

Now, let’s explore the 11 steps to identify and fix wind damage on your roof:

1. Roof Inspection with Caution 🚧

Before anything else, it’s crucial to understand the extent of the roof damage. Take a close look at your roof and assess if there is any of the following:

  • Missing shingles or tiles

  • Lifted or curled shingles/tiles

  • Curling shingles

  • Cracked or broken shingles/tiles

  • Clogged or damaged vents

  • Damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights

  • Structural damage to your home

  • Assess from the Ground: Use binoculars to examine your roof from the safety of the ground. Avoid climbing onto the roof, especially if it’s wet or slippery.

  • Stay Safe: If you must get on the roof, use proper safety equipment, such as a harness, and exercise extreme caution.

2. Document the Damage 📸

  • Take Photos: Document the damage by taking clear photos and videos from various angles. This evidence can be invaluable for insurance claims.

  • Note Details: Keep detailed notes of the damage’s location, size, and any visible issues like missing shingles or dents.

Having an insurance adjuster assess the documented damage is crucial for accurate claims processing.

3. Inspect the Attic 🔦

  • Check for Leaks: Inspect the attic for signs of leaks or water intrusion. Dark stains on the ceiling or damp insulation are red flags. Homeowners insurance may cover the cost of repairs for leaks and water damage found in the attic.

  • Look for Daylight: In daylight, inspect the attic for any spots where daylight is visible. These could indicate holes or damage in the roof.

4. Evaluate Shingle Damage 🏠

  • Missing Shingles: If you notice missing shingles, they should be replaced promptly to prevent water infiltration.

  • Curling or Buckling: Curled or buckled shingles may need to be repaired or replaced to maintain your roof’s integrity.

Choosing durable roofing materials can significantly minimize damage from high winds and severe weather conditions.

5. Check Flashing and Seals 🔧

  • Inspect Flashing: Check the flashing around roof penetrations like chimneys, vents, and skylights for signs of damage or separation. Proper sealing is crucial.

  • Reapply Sealant: If you find any gaps or deteriorated sealant, reapply roofing sealant to ensure a watertight seal.

6. Examine Gutters and Downspouts 🪣

  • Clean Debris: Clear gutters and downspouts of debris, leaves, and shingle granules to prevent water backup and drainage issues.

  • Secure Loose Parts: Check for loose gutter sections or downspouts and secure them properly.

7. Inspect Roof Edges and Overhangs 🧐

  • Check Fascia and Soffits: Examine the fascia boards and soffits for any damage, including loose or missing sections.

  • Evaluate Eaves: Look for loose or damaged eaves and repair them to prevent further wind damage.

8. Evaluate Skylights and Roof Windows 🪟

  • Inspect Seals: Check the seals around skylights and roof windows for any signs of damage or leaks.

  • Replace Broken Panes: If you have cracked or broken panes, replace them promptly to maintain proper insulation.

9. Examine Chimneys and Vents 🔍

  • Check Chimney Flashing: Inspect the flashing around your chimney for any issues and ensure it’s properly sealed.

  • Evaluate Vent Boots: Look at the rubber boots around plumbing vent pipes for signs of cracks or deterioration.

10. Assess Roof Sheathing and Support 🛠️

  • Examine Roof Sheathing: If you have access to your attic, check the roof sheathing for any signs of damage or structural issues.

  • Look for Sagging: Inspect for any areas of the roof that may be sagging or showing signs of structural problems.

11. Contact a Professional Roofer 📞

  • Consult a Roofer: If you identify significant damage or structural issues, it’s essential to contact a professional roofing contractor to assess and repair the damage. An insurance company can play a crucial role in covering the repair costs, so it’s important to file a claim promptly.

  • Prompt Repairs: Address any issues promptly to prevent further damage and protect your home. Understanding your insurance policy is vital to ensure that you are adequately covered for roof repairs due to storm damage.

How Hiring a Professional Can Help with Roof Repairs

While DIY repairs can be fulfilling and cost-saving, the truth remains that a professional roofing contractor brings a level of expertise, efficiency, and safety to the job that is hard to surpass. A professional roofer can provide a thorough roof inspection to identify all damages. Professionals can thoroughly assess structural damage, have the right tools and materials on hand, and often complete the job quicker and with a warranty for their work.

Additionally, they can provide invaluable guidance on the insurance claim process, ensuring you’re fairly compensated for repairs. Timely roof repair is crucial to prevent further damage, such as pest infestations and mold growth. Professional contractors also have the necessary licenses and insurance that DIY projects lack, protecting you from any liability in case of accidents.

Finally, if you’re not comfortable with heights or don’t have experience working on a roof, hiring a professional is highly recommended.

Tackle Wind Damage to Your Roof Like a Pro

By following these steps and staying vigilant after a windstorm, you can identify and address wind damage to your roof effectively. Remember that safety should always be a top priority, and for significant damage, consulting a professional roofer is the best course of action. With proper maintenance and timely repairs, your roof will continue to protect your home for years to come. Stay safe, and may your roof weather every storm with resilience!

Contact our expert roofing team at Next Dimension Roofing for all your roofing needs. We’ll make sure your home stays protected with a sleek and durable roof over your head. Let’s kick off your next roofing project with a free estimate!

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