Roofs are not just superficial structures. They are made so that they can hold weight, withstand rain and snow, and stand up to harsh weather. That’s why we often take them for granted as a reliable part of our homes. But when the unthinkable happens and a storm strikes, these trusty structures are put to the test. Wind damage is one of the most common issues on residential roofs. Roofs can get a lot of wear and tear from wind-related stressors when they are exposed to high winds or natural disasters like tornadoes or hurricanes. In this article, we’ll go over what you need to know about wind-related damage to residential roofing and how you can prevent it from happening again.
What Is Wind Damage?
Wind damage is any type of damage caused by excessive wind to the roofing system of a building. This can include broken shingles, torn or missing roofing tiles, and broken or cracked flashing. It’s important to know the difference between wind damage and hail damage, which is localized damage from a large hailstorm. If a roof sustains hail damage, it will be concentrated in one area. Wind damage, on the other hand, is widespread and can affect multiple areas of the roof.
Why Does Residential Roofing Experience Wind-Related Damage?
Whether a storm is hurricane-strength or a gentle breeze, the roof is the first line of defense against weather and climate. As the most exposed part of the house, it has an important job to do. It keeps your home from getting too hot or too cold and from getting damaged by things like UV rays and rain. A roof is engineered to withstand high winds, storms, and other harsh weather conditions. But if it’s not set up and taken care of properly, wind can damage it.
Signs of Wind-Related Roof Damage
There are a few indicators that your roof may be suffering from wind-related damage. Here are a few clues that your roof is in need of repair: Damaged or missing shingles: If your shingles are ripped and torn, or if you notice that some are missing altogether, this is a clear sign of damage. Broken or cracked tiles: Roof tiles are made to be sturdy, but the stress of high winds can cause them to break. If you spot broken tiles on your roof, it’s a good idea to have them replaced as soon as possible. Cracked or missing flashing: Flashing is put around roof openings like chimneys, vents, and gutters to keep water from getting inside the roof. If the flashing is cracked or missing, water can easily seep into your roof and cause extensive damage.
Repairing Your Roof After Wind Damage
If your roof sustains wind damage, it’s important to repair it right away. Waiting until the damage worsens can cost you time and money in the long run. If high winds damage your roof, you may be able to get help from your insurance company. This includes damage from tornadoes and hurricanes. Your insurance company will probably ask you to hire a licensed roofer to look at the damage and make suggestions for how to fix it. If you’re not sure who to call, ask your insurance agent for a contractor recommendation. You can also use online contractor referral services to find contractors in your area. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to repairing your roof after a storm: Roof repairs must be finished within 24 hours. – The longer you wait to repair your roof, the higher the risk of extensive damage. It’s important to act fast after a storm to prevent further damage. This is especially true if your roof was damaged by high winds or hail.
Final Words
When the weather is uncooperative and storms threaten your roof, you can’t do much to control the situation. But there are a few things you can do to protect your roof and avoid costly repairs. The first step is to get your roof inspected regularly. If you live in the Temple, TX, area, call Bell County Roofing for a free in-home inspection. An annual roof inspection can help you spot potential problems early and save you money in the long run on roof repairs. If your roof sustains wind damage, act quickly to repair it before more damage occurs. If you wait too long after a storm to fix your roof, you might have to pay more because roofing materials will be harder to find.