Signs of Wind Damage to a Roof

We often think of wind as a benign force, helping to pollinate flowers, making our wind chimes sing, and providing us with a refreshing breeze on a hot day. However, fast wind can damage your roof, even before it reaches hurricane or tornado speed. Watch for the signs of wind damage to your roof. You might also see horizontal lines on your roof, cracks or dented shingles. Read on to learn about other common signs of roof damage and how to spot them.

Horizontal lines in shingles

The most common sign of wind damage is missing or cracked shingles. Cracked and peeling shingles are especially vulnerable to blow-off during a storm, leaving your home susceptible to water infiltration. Broken shingles also tend to have horizontal lines, which indicate the shingle seal is broken and the granules have come loose. As a result, it’s imperative to seek a roof repair or replacement as soon as possible.

Buckling shingles

When you notice buckling shingles on your roof, you should take the time to assess its severity. Typically, this problem starts at the edge of the roof, where the wind can catch the shingles and cause damage. Wind damage to your roof is more common on the windward side of your house, where the trees can damage your roof. Tree branches are the most common culprit, but other items such as glass from windows can also damage your roof.

Dented shingles

When a tree or limb falls on a roof, it can cause significant damage. Dented shingles can expose nails and seams, which can require expensive repairs down the road. Additionally, hidden damage can lead to leaks, drafts, and even animal infestation. Here are some of the signs of wind damage to a roof. Dented shingles are one of the most obvious signs of wind damage to a roof.

Cracked shingles

When you notice cracks in your shingles, there are probably several problems with your roof. One of these is a leak. Even a small leak can cause a major problem down the road, so you want to fix it right away. Another sign of wind damage is debris left on the roof. Sometimes, whole shingles can be ripped off or crack in just a few spots. When this happens, you need to contact a roofing contractor to fix your roof.

Missing shingles

You may notice that some shingles are missing. This could be an indication of wind damage to your roof. When this happens, you should get your roof inspected immediately by a professional. The granules on your shingles will thin over time. You may also notice horizontal lines, creases, or tears. These lines are caused by a broken seal of a shingle. When a shingle flaps in the wind, it crashes against another shingle. Regardless of how bad the damage is, you should inspect your roof to prevent any further damage.