Your roof protects your home against the elements, and sometimes sustains damage in the process. We covered how to identify signs of hail damage in a previous blog. Read on to learn more about the damage wind can cause, and how to address it:
What’s A Little Wind?
Damage to your shingles can occur with wind speeds as low as 50 mph. Colorado sees an average of 47 tornadoes each year, while the canyons in Utah are known to produce strong wind gusts, leaving homes in both states susceptible to wind damage.
Signs Of Damage
Asphalt shingles are designed to withstand heavy winds, but intense gusts or prolonged exposure can cause shingles to fail. Here’s what to look for:
- Creasing: Negative pressure creates a suction effect on your roof, lifting shingles without completely removing them. Crease lines may be visible where shingles have come loose and bent backward.
- Curling: Just like with creasing, some shingles may have curled edges or corners. Shingles are intentionally overlapped to create a watertight rooftop, and any lifting can break this seal, leaving your home exposed to potential water damage.
- Cracked/broken shingles: This one might be a little obvious, but if your shingles are cracked or broken, your roof needs repairs. Look for pieces of shingles in your yard after a storm, or check for bare spots on your roof by doing a visual inspection.
- Damaged flashing or boots: Flashing and boots protect the seal between your roof and other surfaces like vents and walls. Strong winds can damage or dislodge flashing, leaving behind a perfect entry point for rainwater.
- Worn-off granules: Granules give shingles their color and also help weatherproof your roof. Over time, strong winds can cause granules to fall off, leaving your shingles bare.
Preventing Damage
You can’t control the weather, but you can take steps to reduce wind damage on your roof. Choose high-quality shingles, and always have your roof installed by a licensed, certified roofer. Keep trees trimmed to prevent branches from rubbing against your shingles, and cut down any trees that are a hazard to your home.
If your home has been damaged by a storm, K & P Exteriors is here to help. We’ll guide you through the insurance process, and complete all repairs in a timely manner. To learn more about our services, visit our website or call (303) 853-0072.