Wind damage to your roof is a significant concern for homeowners, especially those living in areas prone to high winds and storms. Our expert guide will provide you with all the information you need to:
- Understand
- Repair
- Prevent wind damage to roof systems
We’ll also cover the cost of repairs and whether wind damage is typically covered by insurance.
How Wind Speeds Damage Your Roof
Wind damage occurs when the force of the wind exceeds the strength of your roof materials. This can happen during severe weather events such as hurricanes, tornados, and even strong thunderstorms. Wind speeds are measured in miles per hour (mph), and different speeds can cause varying degrees of damage:
- 20-30 mph: Minor damage, such as loose shingles or small leaks.
- 30-50 mph: Moderate damage, including missing shingles, bent flashing, and damaged gutters.
- 50+ mph: Severe damage, such as structural damage to the roof, significant water leaks, and potential collapse of weak areas.
5 Types of Wind Damage
Wind damage to roofs can manifest in several ways:
1) Lifted or Missing Shingles:
High winds can lift shingles, breaking the sealant bond and exposing the underlying layers to further damage.
2) Curling or Peeling Shingles:
Wind can cause shingles to curl or peel, reducing their effectiveness in protecting your home.
3) Damaged Flashing:
Flashing, the metal strips used to seal joints, can be bent or torn away by strong winds, leading to leaks.
4) Loose or Broken Gutters:
High winds can loosen or break gutters, causing water to improperly drain from your roof.
5) Structural Damage:
In extreme cases, wind can cause structural damage to your roof, including broken trusses and rafters.
How to Repair Wind Damage: 2 Ways
When your roof is damaged, prompt attention is necessary. Here’s how to properly repair your wind damaged roof.
1) Assessing the Damage
Before you can repair wind damage, you need to assess the extent of the damage. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Safety First: Ensure the storm has passed and it’s safe to inspect your roof. Use protective gear and avoid climbing onto the roof if it’s slippery or unstable.
- Visual Inspection: From the ground, look for obvious signs of damage such as missing shingles, bent flashing, and loose gutters.
- Use Binoculars: If you can’t see the entire roof from the ground, use binoculars to get a better view.
- Inspect the Attic: Check your attic for signs of leaks or water damage, which may indicate roof damage.
2) DIY Repairs
For minor damage, you may be able to perform simple repairs yourself. Here are some common DIY repair techniques:
- Replacing Shingles: Remove the damaged shingle by lifting the edges of the surrounding shingles and pulling out the nails. Slide the new shingle into place and secure it with roofing nails.
- Fixing Flashing: If the flashing is loose, secure it with roofing nails or screws. If it’s damaged, replace the flashing with new material.
- Sealing Leaks: Use roofing cement or a sealant to patch small leaks. Apply the sealant to the damaged area and smooth it out with a putty knife.
When to Call a Professional
For more extensive damage, it’s best to call a professional roofing contractor. They have the experience, tools, and materials needed to properly repair your roof. Look for a licensed and insured contractor with good reviews and ask for a detailed estimate before proceeding with the repairs.
Cost of Repairs
The cost of repairing wind damage to your roof can vary widely depending on several factors:
- Extent of Damage: Minor repairs may cost a few hundred dollars, while extensive damage can run into the thousands.
- Roof Material: Different roofing materials have different repair costs. For example, asphalt shingles are generally less expensive to repair than slate or tile roofs.
- Labor Costs: Labor costs can vary depending on your location and the roofing contractor’s rates.
- Emergency Repairs: If you need immediate repairs, you may incur additional costs for emergency services.
Average Repair Costs
Here’s a rough estimate of average repair costs for different types of wind damage:
- Shingle Replacement: $200-$500
- Flashing Repair: $300-$600
- Gutter Repair: $100-$300 per section
- Structural Repairs: $1,000-$5,000+
Keep in mind that these are average costs and your actual repair costs may vary. Always get multiple estimates from reputable contractors to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
Is Wind Damage Covered by Insurance?
Homeowners’ insurance policies typically cover wind damage, but it’s important to understand the specifics of your policy. Here are some key points to consider:
- Covered Perils: Most standard policies cover wind damage as a named peril. Check your policy to confirm that wind damage is included.
- Deductibles: Your policy will have a deductible that you must pay out of pocket before insurance coverage kicks in. Make sure you’re aware of your deductible amount.
- Exclusions: Some policies may have exclusions for certain types of wind damage, especially in high-risk areas. Review your policy for any exclusions or limitations.
Filing a Claim
If your roof has suffered wind damage, follow these steps to file an insurance claim:
- Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage to provide evidence for your claim. Include close-up shots and wider views to capture the full extent of the damage.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the documentation and any other information they request.
- Get an Estimate: Obtain a detailed repair estimate from a reputable roofing contractor. Your insurance company may require this to process your claim.
- Meet with an Adjuster: Your insurance company may send an adjuster to inspect the damage and assess the claim. Be present during the inspection to answer any questions.
- Review the Settlement: Once your claim is approved, review the settlement offer to ensure it covers the repair costs. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your insurance company.
How to Prevent Wind Damage to Your Roof
Regular maintenance can help prevent wind damage and extend the life of your roof:
- Inspect Your Roof: Conduct regular inspections, especially after storms, to identify and address any issues early.
- Clean Gutters: Keep your gutters clean to ensure proper water drainage and prevent water damage.
- Trim Trees: Trim overhanging tree branches to prevent them from falling on your roof during high winds.
- Replace Damaged Shingles: Replace any damaged or missing shingles promptly to maintain the integrity of your roof.
Reinforce Your Roof
Taking proactive measures to reinforce your roof can significantly reduce the risk of wind damage:
- Install Hurricane Straps: Hurricane straps can help secure your roof to the structure of your home, reducing the risk of it being lifted off by high winds.
- Upgrade Materials: Consider upgrading to more wind-resistant roofing materials, such as metal or impact-resistant shingles.
- Secure Loose Items: Secure or store loose items in your yard that could become projectiles during high winds and cause damage to your roof.
Professional Inspection
Consider having a professional roofing contractor conduct a thorough inspection of your roof. They can identify potential issues and recommend preventive measures to protect your roof from wind damage.
Schedule Your Roof Inspection With Indy
Wind damage to your roof is a serious concern for homeowners, but with proper understanding, maintenance, and preventive measures, you can protect your home and minimize the risk of costly repairs. Remember to regularly inspect your roof, address any issues promptly, and consider reinforcing your roof to withstand high winds.
If you’re unsure about the condition of your roof or need expert advice, consider booking a consultation with a professional roofing contractor. They can provide a detailed inspection and recommend the best course of action to keep your roof in top shape.
Contact Indy Roof today for help with any and all types of roof damage!
