Roofs are built to endure harsh weather, but high winds and storms can take their toll and cause extensive damage to them. Wind speeds over 50 mph can spell disaster for roofs, mandating homeowners to get inspection and repair services as soon as possible.
Damaged rooftops are unstable, and they can collapse anytime, endangering your safety and that of your loved ones.
That is why you need to know the common signs of roof damage. Well, you can find them below and keep track of your roof damage next time a storm roll’s around.
Outdoor Inspection
After the storm has passed, inspect your roof from the outside. It's best not to climb on top but inspect it from below using binoculars or eyeball the damage to see if you'll need professional help. Your roof may have intense damage in the wake of a storm, and standing on it may cause an accident.
If you see any of the issues mentioned below, it needs to be repaired immediately.
Missing Shingles
Heavy rain and strong wind can tear shingles. Therefore, check for the missing and damaged roof shingles. Every shingle must be sealed to the roof because sealing granules can wear off with intense wind and storm.
When the shingles are not appropriately sealed, they flap in the wind, rubbing against each other, spreading damage, and causing outside elements to slide through the roof.
Moreover, if the roof is made with wood shingles, they quickly become moldy due to exposure to rain. If they are damaged, you can spot the wood boards splitting and curling away from each other.
Blocked Vents
Debris and wreckage can easily be seen flying in the storm, and these usually end up in your home or building's vents. Check inside the vents to ensure they are not clogged. Meanwhile, also inspect the damage by observing the shingles around it. Please make sure they are not raptured or cracked.
Chimney With Missing Bricks
If you have a chimney in your house, then you also need to check them for damage. Damaged chimney flashing is the most common result of harsh winds. Additionally, your chimney may be leaning, missing bricks, or have broken joints and bricks.
Cracked Flat Roof
Flat roofs are also vulnerable to storms and winds. Look for signs of water-logged patches, cracking and crumbling cement, and tears and wrinkles on the roof surface.
Indoor Inspection
After an outdoor inspection, you should also conduct an indoor inspection. This inspection should tell you the extent of the damage. The signs you must check during the indoor inspection are:
Brown, yellow, or gray moisture marks
Peeling paint from the roof or the walls
Damp rafters
Get Professional Help Before It’s Too Late
If you notice any of the signs mentioned above during your inspection, get in touch with your local roof repair services ASAP. If you do not know what a damaged roof looks like, you can find multiple roof damage example pictures online.
Remember, damaged roofs are an accident waiting to happen, so avoid repairing the roof by yourself. Instead, get a professional roof repair expert to assess the damage and fix it for you. They have the tools, training, and experience in dealing with all kinds of roofing issues, so leave yours to them.
DIY-ing roof repair is never a good idea as the integrity of the entire building depends on the quality of the roof. It's better to let a professional such as Integrity Roofing & Restoration take care of the wind damages to your roof.