High Wind Damage to Your Roof?

Strong winds like we had in Colorado Springs may leave you wondering what damage might be like on your roof. Even without heavy rain and hail a roof still can sustain enough damage over time from wind and debris, allowing it to become compromised. Left un-repaired, a damaged roof can cause water damage to your house and increased energy costs if your roof system stops operating the way it should.

If your roof is damaged, it is important to make necessary repairs as quickly as possible to help avoid additional damage and cost.

According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, most roof damage starts on the edge. Any location where the roofing material is a little loose is susceptible to damage from the wind. An area where there may be raised shingles from nail popping or other roof damage is especially vulnerable to additional wind damage. Since the roof isn’t impacted uniformly by the wind, some areas will experience higher pressure and damage than others. Wind damage can start fairly small but increase over time with repeated exposure to the elements.

An outdoor inspection is the best place to start:

Are there any missing shingles?
Are there any cracked, loose, split, torn or damaged shingles?
Have the shingles lifted, breaking the seal and then laying back down. This is not visible but a licensed roofer can tell the shingle has been compromised.
Do you see any shingles on the ground around your house?
Are there any exposed nails?
Is there debris on the roof that may have caused damage?
Inspect other areas of the roof looking for evidence of damage or compromised items like the chimney and the chimney flashing, ventilation pipes, roof flashing or gutters.
Inspect the soffit and fascia looking for damaged wood or water staining.
Is the gutter full of debris?

An indoor inspection might reveal damage that you didn’t notice from the outside (remember that a roof has two sides).

A thorough attic inspection by Ground Floor Home Inspection will help indicate potential leaking with the presence of moisture or water stains.
Check the attic rafters for dampness or staining.
Inspect the insulation for dampness, staining, or if has been compressed.
Look for stains or peeling paint on the ceilings and walls inside the house.

If you suspect that your roof has been damaged, it is important to have it repaired as soon as possible. More damage will occur the longer the repairs are delayed and you may end up not only repairing the roof but expensive additional repairs as well. Contacting your insurance agent should be done to determine the need to file an insurance claim.

Safety! Many (if not all) roof areas should not be accessed by anyone without proper safety training and safety gear. A trained professional is highly advised for inspecting your roof and attic area.

There is a good chance that immediately after a storm, you will be contacted by more than one “fly-by-night” outfit offering to inspect and repair your roof. When considering a roofing professional to hire, always ask for:

The company’s business license.
Proof of insurance.
Certifications.
The permanent business address of the company (local companies with a history of being at one location are a safer choice).
Their Better Business Rating.
They should be able to help you with your claim, and they should ensure there is adequate detail on their bid and detail of work that the insurance company is satisfied.
As with all contractors, it is advisable to interview more than one.