Spotting Wind Damage to Asphalt Shingle Roofs: A Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners

Roof shingles are essential components of any home’s structure, providing protection against various elements, including wind. However, when faced with strong winds, shingles can sustain damage, leading to potential issues such as leaks and structural damage. At Rosenow Customs, a trusted roofing company, we understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of your roof. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the effects of wind on roof shingles, how to spot wind damage, and what steps homeowners can take to address it.

Understanding the structure of shingles

Shingles are the overlapping elements that cover the roof of a building. They come in various materials such as asphalt, wood, metal, and slate, each with its unique characteristics and durability. Understanding the anatomy of shingles can help homeowners identify potential damage caused by high winds.

Common Varieties of Roofing Shingles

1. Asphalt Shingles: These are the most common type of shingles used in residential roofing due to their affordability and durability.

2. Wood Shingles: Known for their aesthetic appeal, wood shingles are prone to damage from moisture and high winds.

3. Metal Shingles: Metal shingles offer excellent durability and are resistant to fire, but they can be noisy during heavy rain or hailstorms.

4. Slate Shingles: Slate shingles are incredibly durable and long-lasting but can be costly to install and repair.

The Impact of Wind on Roof Shingles

Understanding the Impact of Wind on Roof Shingles can help homeowners protect their investments. Wind speed can cause significant damage to a shingle roof, especially if individual shingles are already damaged or unsealed. When a roof has wind damage caused by wind uplift or wind pressure, water can seep into the roof deck, leading to costly repairs. If you suspect wind damage to your roof, it’s essential to inspect it for any signs of wind damage. 

Identifying Signs of Wind Damage on Your Roof

After a storm hits, you may find shingles in your yard, indicating that your roof may have wind damage to asphalt.   Strong winds can wreak havoc on a roof, causing damage to shingles and compromising the integrity of the entire structure. It’s crucial for homeowners to recognize the signs of wind damage and take prompt action to prevent further issues.  Here are some signs to look out for: 

• Missing Shingles: One of the most apparent signs of wind damage to a roof is missing or torn-off shingles.
• Curling or Lifting: Curling shingles or lifting at the edges indicate that they’ve been loosened by the wind.
• Cracked Shingles: High winds can cause shingles to crack or break, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks.
• Granule Loss: Excessive granule loss on shingles can signal wind damage, as the protective layer is compromised.
• Visible Holes: Holes or punctures in shingles indicate that they’ve been damaged by high winds or flying debris.

Assessing and Addressing Roof Damage Caused By Wind

To ensure your roof is protected, consider getting a professional roofer to conduct a thorough roof inspection and make any necessary repairs. Ignoring wind damage can lead to further issues and even the need for a new roof. Once the roof is inspected for damage to a roof caused by wind, you can work with your insurance adjuster to cover the cost of the roof repairs. If you suspect that your roof has been damaged by high winds, it’s essential to take action promptly to prevent further issues. Here’s what homeowners can do:

Inspect the Roof for Wind-Damaged Shingles

Inspect the Roof for Wind-Damaged Shingles after a storm has passed through your area. Wind damaged shingles can lead to severe roof damage. Shingles on the windward side of your roof are especially susceptible to wind damage. Look for unsealed shingles or shingles that have been blown off. The three-tab shingles on your roof may experience wind damage if not properly secured. It is crucial to inspect the damage and address any issues promptly to protect your roof from further storm damage.

Contact a Roofing Contractor Who Can Spot Wind Damage To Inspect Your Roof and Protect Your Roof

If you notice roof damaged caused by severe winds, it is essential to contact a roofing contractor to assess the extent of the damage. Signs of damage may include creases in the shingles, missing shingles, or shingles that are installed unevenly. Damage may not always be visible, so it is crucial to have a professional inspect the entire roof structure. Shingles may also be designed to withstand wind speeds of up to a certain level, so higher wind speeds could have caused damage to your roof. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove shingles and replace them with new ones to ensure the roof’s integrity. If the damage is severe, you may need to file an insurance claim for roof damage, especially if the damage extends to the roof edges or other components of the roof systems.

File an Insurance Claim for Wind Damaged Shingles

Inspecting your roof for wind-damaged shingles can also help you in the insurance claim process if your shingles have been blown off or damaged by wind. Review your homeowners insurance policy to see if it covers the damage caused by wind. Wind may cause shingles to become loose or cause widespread damage to your roof. Shingles that have been damaged by wind are more susceptible to future wind damage so it’s important to address any issues as soon as possible.  If you notice damage to your roof you can:

• Contact your insurance company to report the damage and initiate the claims process.
• Capture photographs and maintain documentation of the damage to ease the process of claiming with your insurance. 
• An adjuster will assess the damage and determine the coverage provided by your homeowners insurance policy.

FAQs About Wind Damaged Roofs

Q: Will my homeowner’s insurance cover wind damage to my roof?

 A: In most cases, yes. However, coverage may vary depending on your policy and the extent of the damage. Reviewing your policy and contacting your insurance company to file a claim is essential.

Q: How can I prevent wind damage to my roof in the future?

A: Regular maintenance, such as trimming trees and securing loose shingles, can help minimize the risk of wind damage. Additionally, investing in high-quality shingles and having them professionally installed can provide added protection.

Q: How soon should I address wind damage to my roof?

A: It’s best to address wind damage as soon as possible to prevent further issues, such as leaks and structural damage. Contacting a roofing contractor promptly can help minimize the extent of the damage and the cost of repairs.

Trust Rosenow Customs to Help you Prevent Wind Damage to your Roof

Wind damage to roof shingles is a common issue faced by homeowners, particularly in areas prone to strong winds. By understanding the signs of wind damage and taking prompt action, homeowners can protect their homes from further issues and ensure the integrity of their roof for years to come. If you suspect you have wind damaged roof, reach out to the expert roofing contractors at Rosenow Customs for prompt repairs and to ensure your shingles are installed securely.

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