So, the storm just passed and you are worried about whether or not your roof sustained some wind damage. The good news is that there are some signs that you can look for on and around your roof to determine whether you should call in a professional.
What Speed Does Wind Damage Happen At?
Unsurprisingly, you can expect to get varying levels of damage with different wind speeds. The higher the wind speed, the more force exerted on your roof, and the more damage caused. But what wind speed should you be worried about? The National Weather Service has classified wind speeds into several categories:
0-26 mph (low or none)
At this wind speed, you should not expect any roof damage. Trees will sway and small twigs and branches may break.
26-39 mph (moderate)
Right around here is when loose shingles may be lifted off of your roof and larger tree limbs have the potential to break off.
40-57 mph (high)
At these wind speeds, there can be light structural damage. Trees may also be uprooted at these speeds.
58+ (severe)
Winds at these intense speeds have the ability to cause widespread damage to a large area.
Wind Damage Signs to Look For
If you experience an extremely windy day or storm you may wonder how to tell if you have any amount of wind damage.
Missing Shingles
The first thing that you should look for, as it will be the most obvious, are missing shingles. Shingles that were previously loose have the greater chance of being lifted off at lower wind speeds, but when speeds reach 45+ you may see more damage to your shingles.
Curling Shingles
Another clear sign of wind damage will be curling shingles. As shingles are supposed to lay flush against the top of your house, any curling will be an obvious sign to you that they should be replaced or repaired.
Granule Loss
A less obvious sign will be the loss of granules on your shingles. Granules are the small pieces of stone that are embedded in the shingle. They have several purposes such as their ability to block solar radiation and their aid in fire-resistance. What may look like “bald spots” on your shingles will most likely be due to granule loss. If you see large deposits of granules at the base of gutters, this can also be a sign that you have suffered some damage.
Soffit and Fascia Damage
High winds can loosen fittings that keep your soffit and fascia intact. The soffit is the underside of your roof that overhangs. The fascia is the piece of trim on the sides of your roof that gives a finished appearance. Both of these structures act as barriers to the elements and if they become compromised, water can enter your home much more easily.
Fix Wind Damage with CK Roofing
Some of these side effects can be difficult to spot from the ground, so having your roof inspected can help you identify the problem and have it fixed in a timely manner. Here at CK Roofing, our experts can identify wind damage and provide you assistance fast! Give us a call if you believe you may have sustained wind damage or for any of your roofing needs.
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