How can you identify if high winds are damaging your roof

Oct 18

Wind can cause damage to homes, which many homeowners are unaware of. High winds can result in hazards such as fallen branches, uprooted trees and power lines that are down on your property and in the surrounding region. These risks are usually related to major storms however, it is also possible for wind to cause structural damage to your house. When strong winds blow, shingles can come off a roof or become detached. Even shingles that are secure and new might be torn away by the speed of strong winds. Roof damage caused by falling material and debris, such as tree branches or downed power lines, is a different type of wind damage and is a possibility to reverse by city roofing and exteriors.

Wind Damage

What are the wind speeds that should be worried about?

45 mph to 57 speed

Based on the National Weather Service winds of 45 mph aren't likely to cause significant damage. However, this level is classified as "non-severe." Winds that are not severe can cause shingles or tree limbs to loosen or be fragile, and could force them to fall.

from 58 mph to 74 speed

If winds are particularly powerful, they could create major destruction to structures and landscaping. Winds in this range will knock down entire tree branches, uproot trees, peel off shingles in good shape and can cause chimney damage.

75+ miles per hour

At this speed trees are likely to be ripped up and mobile homes could be turned upside down, and roofs for residential and commercial roofs will be severely damaged.

Roof Damage caused by Wind: How to Recognize it

If you've had recent wind gusts that were 45 mph or more contact us and we'll come out and inspect your roof for some of the most common signs of damage to the roof. Roof damage caused by wind is evident in missing or loose shingles as well as chimney problems, curling and peeling shingles, loss of granules, damaged fascias or soffits, and inside leaks. High winds can also cause roof damage due to falling tree branches.

Roof Wind Damage

There aren't enough granules in Spots Shingles
Loss of granules can be caused by wind, hail, or other weather conditions. The first spot we check to determine if we have missing granules is in your gutters, which is the place where they are most likely to accumulate.
The roof's edge is curling because of peeling shingles.Wind is more likely to cause damage to roof's edges, as well as other pressure points. We'll search for curling shingles in areas where the wind has gained control and began to peel the shingles during our inspection. Shingles help keep water out, therefore if they come loose they could cause water damage and a disintegrating roof will result.
Roof Shingles are missing in their Entirety: The loss of shingles that are complete is among the most evident signs of a wind-damaged roof. If you find shingles missing from the yard or around your home, it is best to consult a professional to inspect the area to see what else is creating difficulties. Winds that are strong can completely tear shingles off your roof and expose it to the elements.
If you own a flat roofing, we will examine it for any missing pieces or tears. Wind can raise the material and tear it off or leave behind bubbles that compromise the roofing's quality.
Fascia or Soffit Damage : Fascia and shingles are similar to shingles in that they keep water off the roof. This reduces the risk of a roof leaked. If soffit or fascia are broken, they can let water and animals into your home. Cracks, loose or bent areas, or even complete elimination of fascia that is loose could all be caused by the winds.
Chimneys: Is your chimney a little off-kilter? This should alert you to the possibility of a problem. Sometimes, we find missing lashing that compromises the chimney seal, allowing water to get in.