Post-Storm Roof Inspections: DIY Tips for Identifying Wind Damage

Your roof is one of the most exposed parts of your house during severe weather, and storms may cause havoc. Strong winds have the potential to inflict significant harm that isn’t necessarily obvious right away. Early wind damage detection is essential to halting more deterioration and expensive repairs. We’ll give you some do-it-yourself advice in this article on how to spot wind damage to your roof. Although these actions can assist you in evaluating the problem, we advise hiring qualified roofers to perform a thorough examination and repairs.

1. Prioritizing Safety

Safety should come first before you start looking for wind damage on your roof. It might be dangerous to climb onto your roof, particularly after a storm. Always use caution and think about getting help from a professional if you’re afraid of heights or are unsure of your ability to navigate your roof securely. Make sure you use the proper safety gear, work on a solid ladder, and stay off of damp or slippery roofs.

2. External Examination

Examine your roof from underneath to begin your assessment. Examine your house from the outside in for obvious signs of damage. Observe the following items:

• Missing or Damaged Shingles: Shingles that are missing or damaged can be caused by strong winds, which can also cause gaps or the complete removal of the shingles from your roof.
• Shingles that are Curled or Buckled: Winds have the power to cause shingles to bend or buckle, impairing their effectiveness to shield your house.
• Skylights, Chimneys, and Vents with Dents or Cracks: Inspect roof accessories and components for dents, cracks, or other indications of wear and tear.
• Accumulation of Debris: Seek for any debris that would point to wind damage, such as branches or shingle granules.

2. Examine Your Guts

Check for shingle granules in your gutters. Granules from asphalt shingle roofs are frequently lost in inclement weather. If there are too many granules in your gutters, it may indicate wind damage and shingle wear. Water damage and the need for roof repairs may result from this.

3. Examining the Attic

It’s critical to investigate your attic to find wind damage that might not be apparent from the exterior. With a flashlight, search for the following objects:

• Water leaks or Stains: Look for indications of water intrusion, such as leaks that are currently happening or stains or moist areas. Over time, even a tiny leak can do serious harm to the roof.
• Daylight Leaking In: In your attic, turn out the lights and search for any spots where light is shining through. This suggests cracks or other structural issues with your roof.
• Growth of Mold or Mildew: Excess moisture resulting from roof damage can encourage the growth of mold and mildew. If you see any, there may be persistent problems with the roof.

4. Examine the Roof Deck

You can carefully examine the roof deck from the inside if you think there may be damage to the roof and you are confident in your ability to do so. As follows:

• Find any places in your attic where the deck is visible. Usually, this is at the eaves or at the junction of the walls and the roof.
• Look for evidence of water damage, sagging, or obvious sheathing gaps.
• If any fasteners (nails or screws) were used to secure the roof, check them for corrosion or rust.

5. Record Your Results

Make sure to record your findings as you examine your roof for wind damage. Take detailed pictures of any damage you find. When you call a licensed roofing contractor for repairs or insurance purposes, this paperwork will come in handy.

6. Employ a Skilled Roofer

Although do-it-yourself checks might be helpful in spotting possible wind damage, they cannot replace a professional evaluation. It is advisable to get in touch with a licensed local roofing services offered for a comprehensive assessment and any required maintenance. A professional roofer can find hidden problems and offer a complete repair since they have the knowledge, resources, and experience to do so. They may also help with insurance claims, making sure you get the money you need to properly replace or repair your roof.

In summary

Damage from wind to your roof can have a significant impact on the general safety and structural soundness of your house. It’s critical to carry out a comprehensive check following a storm in order to find any problems. Even if you can do a basic DIY inspection, safety should always come first. If you need a more thorough assessment and repairs, you should think about contacting a professional roofer. Quick action can save additional damage and shield your house from future leaks and expensive repairs. Remember that prevention is preferable to reaction when it comes to the longevity and safety of your roof, click here to learn more.