During a storm, you depend on your roof to protect you and your family from the elements. Make sure you catch damage as soon as possible to keep it from spreading and hire professionals to perform repairs when needed.
High Winds Wreak Havoc on Your Roof
Without rain or hail, high winds between 70 to 90 miles per hour can cause damage to your roof’s surface. Strong winds lift shingles and rip other roofing materials apart, consequently leaving your home vulnerable to additional issues later. Heavy winds are powerful enough to loosen trees and branches, knocking onto your roof. Punctures and cracks from the impact of falling objects and debris lead to leaks, mold, and odor issues within the home if it isn’t rectified immediately.
If your roof is older or towards the middle of its service life, that makes it more susceptible to wind damage. But regardless of how old your roof is, after a severe storm with high winds, you should hire professionals to inspect the surface for damage that may not be noticeable. Evidence of wind damage includes curled, cracked, or missing shingles, accumulated debris, and clogged gutters. But storm or no storm, once your roof is more than ten years old, it’s best for professionals to perform annual roof inspections to remain proactive about your building’s protection.
Help Your Roof Sustain Storms
Luckily, most homeowners insurance covers wind damage. But to avoid the hassle of filing a claim on your policy and the stress of repairing your roof, it’s important to follow these best practices to safeguard your home:
Get Routine Inspections
When you suspect all is well with your roof without making sure, before you know it, major problems present themselves, and they may not have a quick fix. Routine inspections help you document the condition of your roof each year, so you’re aware of its necessary improvement projects, repairs, and its remaining lifeline. Annual inspections also help you budget for any costly expenses that are necessary, such as a retrofit or a replacement.
Clean Roof Valleys and Gutters
Roof valleys and gutters are important for your home’s safety. When it rains, your roof valley and gutters help drain water so it’s not sitting on your roof’s surface. But when there’s an accumulation of debris, the water has nowhere to go, so it stays in your gutter, causing excessive moisture and eventually, in-home leakage.
Trim Trees Surrounding Your Property
The impact of falling trees and branches can cause serious damage during powerful winds. If you have a tree that sways over or leans toward your house, call a specialist to eliminate these hazards before the start of the storm season to reduce the likelihood of impact damage.
