If you’re a homeowner, you’re probably familiar with the concept of roof damage caused by high winds. Wind-damaged shingles can lead to leaks, gutter problems, and more. In this article, we’ll dive deep into what roof wind damage is, how it occurs, and how it can affect your roof and its underlying structure. We’ll also cover signs of wind damage, cost-effective ways to repair wind damage to shingles, and the role that insurance plays. So to get your home back in good condition, keep reading!
What Is Wind Damage To Shingles?
Regardless if you are aware of it or not, high-speed winds are one of the main reasons your roofing shingles will suffer damage. They can break, crack, tear off, curl, crease, and completely blow off in response to high winds. It may be easier to say that strong wind has damaged your roof, however, this process of damaging shingles isn’t that simple. First, the wind enters the roofing shingles through the edges found along corners, ridges, and roof lines. And then, taking the least resistive path, it lifts up the shingles, causing them to crease or dislodge completely.
Also, read – What To Do If Your Shingles Come Off Your Roof
These loose parts of the roof are easy targets because the winds can easily rip up loose shingles, causing a chain reaction. During high winds, roofs can also be damaged by falling objects and debris, such as tree branches and downed power lines.
How Badly Can Wind Damage Your Roof and The Underlying Structure?
Wind-damaged shingles can lead to leaks, missing shingles, and gutter problems. Shingle roofs especially take a beating during high winds, despite most being rated to withstand 90 mph winds. Damage to your roof can begin at around 50 mph, so it’s important to know how to check it for such damage. High winds can cause hazards to your property and surrounding areas, such as fallen branches, uprooted trees, and torn-down power lines. While these dangers are what we picture after a big storm, the wind itself can also result in structural damage to your home. Eventually, after prolonged wind damage, your roof can leak or rot due to water exposure.
Signs of Wind Damage to Shingles
If you’ve recently experienced high winds, there are some common signs of roof damage to look for, including:
Missing Shingles
One of the easiest ways to tell that you have a wind-damaged roof is the loss of whole shingles. Strong winds can completely rip shingles off, leaving your roof vulnerable to other forms of damage. If you find shingles in your yard or around your house, you’ll definitely want to have a professional come out and inspect your home to ensure there are no other forms of damage.
Curling Shingles
The wind uplift force is responsible for your curling shingles. This form of shingle damage can be found in critical areas of the roof, such as the edges, along corners, the chimney, and the ridge. When shingles are curled, they make it easier for the wind to tear them off the roof completely. Just like missing shingles, curled shingles leave the underlying structure exposed, which then takes on moisture, no longer preventing water from entering the roof deck.
Lifting Shingles
Lifted shingles, as some experts say, are difficult to see if you aren’t actually looking for them. Usually, the shingles remain intact on the roof’s surface. However, strong winds can loosen nails, lifting the shingles up and displacing them. Lifted shingles can potentially damage your roof, as they provide an opening for the wind to enter and further cause damage.
Granule Loss
Wind can cause loss of granules (the sandpaper-like part of the shingle). One way to determine if you have missing granules is by inspecting your gutters for the granules, as this is where they tend to pile up.
Leaks and Indoor Signs of Roof Damage
You may notice visible signs of wind damage from inside your home. Due to exposed shingles, moisture and water can seep into your roof. If you see any signs, such as water stains, discoloration, and peeling paint, it is more than likely the shingles have been removed by wind and water has seeped into the roof deck. Check your attic or top floor for wet spots or water dripping from the ceiling. Take prompt actions to prevent further damage.
Cost-Effective Ways to Repair Wind Damage to Shingles
Repairing wind-damaged shingles can be costly, but there are some cost-effective ways to repair them. The scope of the repair will depend on the damage, ranging from shingle replacement all the way to a new roof. Here are some cost-effective ways to repair wind damage to shingles:
Shingle Replacement
If only a few shingles have been damaged, you can replace them instead of replacing the entire roof. While this may be more expensive than a simple patch job, it’s much cheaper than replacing the entire roof.
Patching
If the damage is minor, you can patch the area instead of replacing the shingles. This involves applying a sealant to the damaged area to prevent water from leaking in.
DIY Repairs
If you’re handy, you can make repairs on your own. However, it’s important to remember that repairing wind damage to shingles can be dangerous and is best left to experts.
How to Repair Wind Damage to Shingles
If you’re not comfortable making repairs on your own, it’s best to call an expert roofer. Here’s a step-by-step process for repairing wind damage to shingles:
Step 1: Inspect the Damage
Inspect the damage to determine the best course of action. If only a few shingles are damaged, you can replace them. If the damage is more extensive, you may need to replace the entire roof.
Step 2: Remove the Damaged Shingles
Remove the damaged shingles by lifting the edges of the shingles above the damaged area and removing the nails that hold them in place.
Step 3: Replace the Damaged Shingles
Replace the damaged shingles with new ones. Be sure to use the same type of shingles as the ones that were damaged.
Step 4: Seal the Shingles
Seal the shingles by applying roofing cement or another sealant to the edges and bottoms of the shingles.
Step 5: Replace the Nails
Replace the nails that hold the shingles in place.
Though it may seem like an easy task, if you have shingle warranties you will want a trained and certified roofing contractor to handle the job for you. This way you can ensure you don’t void the manufacturer’s warranty. In general, it’s always a good idea to have a professional handle the job for you.
The Cost of Roof Wind Damage Repair
The cost of roof wind damage repair varies depending on the extent of the damage. If only a few shingles need to be replaced, the cost will be relatively low. If the damage is extensive and requires a new roof, the cost will be much higher. It’s important to get an estimate from an expert roofer before making any repairs.
Contact Your Insurance Provider To Cover Wind Damage
If your roof has been damaged by wind, you may be able to submit a homeowners insurance claim. Check your homeowner’s insurance policy to find out if wind damage is covered by your insurance. Your insurance policy, if you applied for it at the time of roof installation or replacement, can cover any damage to your shingles. You will then need to file an insurance claim by documenting the damage caused by the wind and sending it to your insurance provider. Your insurance provider will assign a task insurance adjuster to inspect your roof and approve or deny the claim.
Hire The Roofing Experts To Repair Your Wind-Damaged Roof
If you see any signs on your roof that suggest wind damage, your first priority should be to contact professional roofers. If you live in Tulsa or the surrounding areas of Oklahoma, contact A. Fricker Roofing & Waterproofing to repair your roof. We are a team of professional roofers who have extensive experience with all types of roofs, and can provide you with the best solutions to keep your home safe and protected. Call us today at (918)-402-7167 to repair your wind-damaged roof.
