Worried that your roof might have been damaged by high winds? In this article, we break down how to identify roof wind damage so you can start the claim process.
The next time you are outside, take a look at your roof. Do you notice anything…off? Do the shingles look worn? Does anything seem to be missing?
Some indications that high winds have damaged your roof are easy to spot—you may even be able to see them from the street. Others may require a closer inspection. Either way, it’s critical to know how to identify roof wind damage to prevent serious issues like leaking ceilings and mold.
If you are even slightly concerned about the state of your roof, these tips will help you identify problems so you can notify your insurance.
When to Look for Roof Wind Damage
When winds reach 45 mph or higher in your area, you should take some steps to ensure that your roof is still in good shape. At this speed, dead tree limbs can fall onto your roof and damage the shingles. At higher speeds, the wind can even rip shingles completely off their nails.
Wind speeds of 75 mph and higher are certain to blow swathes of shingles away and even affect the structure of your home. Knowing how to identify the following signs of wind damage can help you recover your losses after a storm.
How to Identify Roof Wind Damage: 6 Signs
1. Missing Shingles
Missing shingles are difficult to miss, even from far away. If you notice that your roof is missing shingles, do your best to protect the damaged area from rain while you wait for your insurance to cover the cost of repairs.
2. Shingles with Curling Edges
Even if high winds did not blow off any shingles, you are not out of the woods yet. Check your roof for any sign of shingles that are curling at the edges. These shingles may be loose and allow water to seep through.
3. Missing Granules
You may not be able to tell by looking at the shingles themselves, but if you just weathered a storm, you should look for any worn spots on your roof. Look in your gutters for excessive granules that have come off the shingles.
4. Missing or Damaged Soffit
Check where your roof hangs over the side of your house. Are there any missing or damaged pieces of soffit? If left in disrepair, water and animals may get inside your home.
5. Leaks
If you notice any leaks in the ceilings underneath your roof, you probably have a leak in your roof. Inspect your roof to find where the water is entering.
Not sure you know how to identify roof wind damage? Let an expert help.
How to identify roof wind damage? As property insurance attorneys, we have a network of people in the business who can help you find wind roof damage before it causes severe problems. Get in touch with us today.
Need help with an insurance provider who is refusing to pay? We can help with that, too.