Checking Out the Not-So-Obvious Wind Damage on Your Roof
Indications of Potential Roof Damage Due to Wind:
Post-storm, it's common to be on the lookout for wind damage on your roof, but not all issues may readily present themselves. Even mattress-tickler winds can displace shingles, mess with flashing, or fiddle with seals around roof features.
If you fail to spot these warning signs, your humble abode may suffer missed connections, insulation problems, and progressive decay.
Got Gaps? Missing or Misaligned Shingles
When something ain't right, it's obvious. Missing shingles or a few hitchhikers floating around can be a sure sign of a high-wind run-in. Wind can yank shingles clear off their adhesive strip and hightail it outta there.
Occasionally, shingles don't take a clean exit but shift position instead. This leaves the underlayment undefended and vulnerable to water invasions. Over time, this can lead to unwanted leaks and indoor water stains.
Flashing Damage Around Roof Features
Metal flashing protects snap-backs around chimneys, skylights, and vents. If the wind's played with or yanked the flashing outta shape, you might miss the issue from the ground level.
However, these spots can be leak-prone areas. A peek from a construction monitoring expert can help identify the tiniest flashing or fastener placement shifts that, while small, can make a big difference.
Granule Loss from Asphalt Shingles
Asphalt shingles sport granules that help protect against UV rays and prolong roof life. After a brush with a strong breeze, you may find a fair share of those granules in your gutters or sifting around the base of downspouts.
Granule loss is one of those under-the-radar damage signs that wind can deliver, but it can dramatically cut your roof's lifespan.
Lightin' Out-Curled or Lifted Shingle Edges
Take a gander and see if shingles appear all wavy or popped up at the corners. This usually means the wind's nudged the seal between the shingle and the layer beneath, making the roof fair game for water, pests, and other debris to get in.
Shingles that flutter easily in the breeze should be bid a fond farewell.
Leaks or Interior Evidence
Sometimes, the initial signs of wind damage appear indoors. Water stains on the ceiling, peeling paint, or wonky plaster might indicate roof issues above. By the time these symptoms make an appearance, the roof problem has likely been festering for a while. Swift evaluation can halt further deterioration.
Gathered Debris Patterns on the Roof
A gaggle of fallen branches or leaves piled up in concentrated patches can point to strong wind patterns. These clusters usually nestle in roof valleys, where they can pool water and create the perfect conditions for rot or mold. Even if the shingles seem unhurt, the weight of debris and trapped moisture can lead to damage.
Roof Vents or Soffits That've Hightailed It
Wind can jostle roof ventilation covers or nudge soffits at the eaves' edges. These features help maintain airflow in your attic and steer clear of moisture buildup.
Damaged vents can disrupt this balance, leading to insulation issues or mold growth. If you suspect subtle damage, requesting a reserve study might help with long-term planning.
A Roof That Looks Peachy-Don't Assume
Spotting wind damage warnings takes more than a quick eyeful. Minor wind-relating shifts after a storm can spell trouble down the road.
Damage isn't always obvious, and even tiny alterations in the roof system can open the door to high repair bills.
If you fancy a more comprehensive grasp of your roof's condition after high wind events, reach out today. We can spot what others overlook and ensure you're in the know.
- The displacement or misalignment of asphalt shingles in your home-and-garden area might be a result of wind damage during a storm, potentially leading to leaks and indoor water stains.
- In the process of maintaining your home-improvement project, it's crucial to regularly check the flashing around roof features for any signs of damage, as even minor shifts can lead to leak-prone areas and future structural issues.
