Posted by Bealing Roofing No Comments on Wind Damage: How to Spot it Uncategorized

When storms roll through the area, whether they produce hail or not, your roof can still sustain damage. Roofs are designed to resist typical wind conditions, but year in and year out exposure to high winds and flying debris can weaken your roofing material. Being proactive after a storm and replacing missing shingles or addressing other roof damage is critical in ensuring protection from long term effects. Here are a few ways to spot wind damage after a storm.

Roof Leaks

These are pretty easy to spot. Look for water coming into your house in areas such as a ceiling or running down a wall. It’s a pretty safe bet that there’s an issue with your roof. If you are experiencing this level of damage, be sure to contact your local roofing expert immediately!

Missing Shingles

Strong winds, heavy rains, and wind-blown debris are the #1 enemy of your shingles. Do a walk around your house after a storm. A visible indicator would be shingle tabs laying on the ground but also take a look at your roof itself for shingles that are just starting to break off. Do either from the ground, through a second-story window, or carefully climb a ladder for a bird’s eye view. 

Lifting Shingles

These are much harder to spot without close inspection. Shingles “lift” when the nails have loosened, thus pushing the shingle above the nail. This can potentially break the sealant between shingles and increase the likelihood of a leak. If your shingles start lifting, wind can easily get underneath them and break them off.

Gutter Damage

High winds and heavy rains can wash the protective granules off your shingles and load them into your gutters. Look for excessive granule deposits and call a reputable roofing contractor if you find them.

Chimney Flashing

If your chimney flashing has pulled away from your chimney, is split, or even missing, you are likely to start seeing leaks. This area is a high-stress point for winds mainly due to the angle. 

Flying Debris and Tree Damage

During a storm, you may have the best roof around…. maybe even a newly installed one. The one factor beyond your control is debris, such as broken tree limbs that are blown around and impact your roof. After a storm, when surveying for shingle damage, take note of any broken limbs close to your home. It’s a good idea to check those areas of your roof near where they land to ensure they did not strike your shingles first before falling to the ground. 

At any time during a post-storm inspection, if you suspect or detect damage to your roof, give Bealing Roofing & Exteriors, Inc. a call. We have the experience and know-how to ensure your roof is quickly repaired before more costly damage occurs.