Is Your Roof Damaged by Wind?
If you live in an area where wind damage is common, you’re not alone. If you’re prone to storms, you’re even more likely to be affected. Although a storm doesn’t directly hit the roof, it can cause damage to the surface of your building, which can lead to a variety of problems. Wind is caused by changes in atmospheric pressure, causing air to move from higher to lower areas. Different types of wind are caused by different factors.
Signs
When wind blows, the shingles on a roof can be blown off or punctured. It’s best to assess wind damage immediately. The severity of wind damage depends on the shingle location, slope and direction. Moreover, a proper assessment of wind damage should take into account the factors that affect proper adhesion.
The most obvious sign of a wind-damaged roof is the presence of leaks. If water is pouring in from the ceiling, you’re experiencing a leak in your roof. While it’s unlikely that you need to climb up on the roof to check for leaks, you should inspect your attic and upper floors for any wet spots or water dripping from the ceiling. If there are any of these problems, you should call a professional for help.
Causes
High winds can cause significant damage to a roof. According to Travelers Insurance, wind is responsible for up to 25 percent of roof damage. Wind damage is especially common on older homes that are exposed to forceful winds. You can prevent wind damage by taking measures to strengthen the materials on your roof.
When it comes to wind damage, the most common culprit is debris. Wind-driven debris such as tree limbs will tear the shingles off your roof. It is also important to trim tree limbs that overhang your roof. Wind-damaged roofs are also a safety hazard.
Repairs
Wind can cause damage to many parts of your roof. When it’s strong, high winds can lift the shingles, causing them to break off. Even worse, these windy winds can also cause damage to the cement holding your shingles to your roof. If you have this type of damage, you’ll need to repair or replace the entire roof.
Wind damage can be especially problematic if you live in an area prone to storms. High winds can bend and crease roofs, particularly at the corners and edges. Because high winds don’t hit the roof evenly, they tend to focus on the loosest tiles. This can cause severe damage, especially when it happens when the wind rips off tiles. Additionally, wind damage can also cause damage to the insulation in your attic. This damage can cause leaks that can lead to more severe damage later on.
Insurance coverage
In the event of a major wind event, your home insurance policy is likely to cover roof damage. This coverage may cover repairs to the roof, as well as damage to siding, fences, or other structures. However, you should check with your insurance company to see what is covered and what is not.
While preventing roof damage is almost impossible, there are steps you can take before and during a windstorm to reduce the risk. First, contact your insurance agent and speak with a public adjuster about your wind damage insurance claim. They can help you determine what repairs need to be made and who to hire. Remember to keep all receipts for any necessary repairs. They will be included in the final settlement. Also, make sure that your roof is strong enough to withstand extreme wind, and have it checked by a licensed roofing contractor. Also, make sure to secure loose objects, and anchor your belongings if necessary.
