Is your home prepared for the wrath of Mother Nature’s turbulent winds?
Roof wind damage is a common and costly issue for homeowners, especially during stormy seasons with high wind gusts.
This article provides you with the knowledge you need to spot roof damage or impacted roofing material from a weather event, uprooted trees, or severe weather—with 8 signs your roof has sustained wind damage.
Let’s uncover these warning signs…because knowing when it’s time for repair could save your roof from major structural damage. It can also help you know when to file a roof damage insurance claim with your insurance company.
Anchor Point Roofing offers comprehensive roof repairs and roof inspection, should you believe you have experienced roof wind damage.
Signs of Wind Damage
Signs of wind damage on your roof can include clogged or damaged vents, flying debris, visibly damaged shingles, peeling paint, loose shingles, a leaky roof (interior), dents in shingles and siding/fascia, as well as granule loss.
While some signs of roof damage are more obvious than others, a professional inspection to assess for roof repair after high wind speeds or fallen trees/fallen tree branches is always a good idea.
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Lifted or Curling Shingles
Wind damage often manifests in vi
sible changes to your roof’s shingles, although it can damage other roofing materials. One of the most common signs is lifted or raised shingles. This occurs as a result of high-speed winds getting beneath them, forcefully lifting them upwards. Often, older shingles do not have the capability to withstand high winds and cannot sustain damage.
Damage to your roof shingles exposes your roof deck and underlayment to harsh weather conditions, potentially leading to interior leaks and water damage over time. It will also increase energy costs. Regular maintenance can help prevent this issue by ensuring that your roofing materials are properly installed and secured against strong winds.
Noticing any appearance of lifted or curling shingles on your roof should prompt an immediate inspection, aiding in avoiding extensive future repair costs.
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Misaligned Shingles
Misaligned shingles are often an overlooked sign of wind damage on your roof. Strong gusts can shift these protective pieces out of position, making it easier for water to infiltrate and potentially lead to crucial structural issues over time.
This misalignment may not be as glaring as missing or torn shingles, thus regular inspection is necessary especially after severe storms. Your roofing contractor can perform a comprehensive check that includes the alignment integrity of all shingles, ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your roofing materials’ warranties.
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Missing Shingles
Powerful winds wreak havoc on your roof, leading to serious problems such as flapping or missing shingles. These signs should never be ignored. Flapping shingles suggest that the adhesive seal has been compromised, causing each piece not only to look displaced but also expose the underlayment to harsh weather conditions.
This failure in adhesion can compromise entire roof system integrity if left unchecked, ushering in leaks and further interior damage. Equally alarming is when you find missing shingles after a storm; this means your home’s first line of defense against nature’s elements isn’t complete anymore.
Such issues need immediate attention from a reputable roofing contractor equipped with top-quality roofing materials for necessary repairs or potential roof replacement under specified warranty coverage plans.
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Dents in Siding
One of the signs that your roof has sustained wind damage is dents in the siding or fascia. When high winds blow debris like tree branches or hail against your home, it can cause noticeable dents on the exterior surfaces.
These dents not only affect the aesthetics of your home, but they can also compromise its structural integrity. It’s important to address these issues promptly as they can lead to water leaks and further damage if left unattended.
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Granule Loss
Granule loss is a clear indication that your roof has sustained wind damage. Granules are the tiny, granular particles on the surface of shingles that protect them from the elements. When strong winds blow over your roof, they can catch hold of these granules and remove them, leaving the soft part beneath exposed and vulnerable to further damage.
Granule loss not only compromises the integrity of your shingles but also reduces their lifespan. If you notice an excessive amount of loose granules in your gutters or around your property after a windy storm, it’s crucial to have a professional roofing contractor assess and repair any wind damage to prevent more extensive issues down the line.
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Crooked Chimney
One of the telltale signs that your roof has sustained wind damage is a crooked chimney. Strong winds can cause a chimney to settle independently from the rest of your house, resulting in misalignment or leaning.
This can lead to cracks and buckling around chimney flashing or roof flashing, and potentially cause tearing in the flashing itself. Additionally, you may notice damaged bricks, a cracked cap, or loose joints on your chimney.
It’s crucial to inspect for these issues after severe storms with high winds.
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Leaks
One of the most evident signs that your roof has sustained wind damage is the presence of leaks or indoor signs. These can manifest as water spots on your ceiling anywhere the roofing material has sustained external damage.
Wind damage can compromise the integrity of your roof, causing gaps or cracks that allow water to seep in. If you notice any signs of leakage, it’s crucial to address them promptly to prevent further damage and costly repairs down the line.
Remember, leaks are not only an inconvenience but also a potential hazard for structural issues and mold growth if left unattended. You want to address this as an insurance claim before the situation progresses.
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Sagging Roof Deck
A sagging roof deck is a clear indication that your roof has sustained wind damage. High winds can put immense pressure on the structure of your roof, causing it to weaken and eventually sag.
This not only compromises the integrity of your home but also increases the risk of water damage and leaks. It’s crucial to address this issue promptly to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
Regular roof inspections are essential in identifying signs of wind damage early on, allowing you to take necessary action before it worsens. Don’t ignore a sagging roof deck—act now to protect your home from further harm.
Conclusion
It’s crucial to be aware of the signs that indicate your roof has sustained wind damage, as you may be entitled to file an insurance claim with your insurance company.
To prevent further damage, it is crucial to have a professional roofing contractor, like us here at Anchor Point Roofing, inspect and repair any areas of concern before they escalate into costly repairs down the road. Filing insurance claims is easy—and we can help work with you to guide you through the process, depending on your homeowners insurance policy.
Don’t underestimate the impact of wind damage on your roof—take action now to protect your home from potential water infiltration and other related issues caused by these vulnerabilities.
Contact Anchor Point Roofing today for a free consultation and estimate on your roof repair or replacement. Emergency repairs are available.