You should always get a professional inspection after a weather related event hits your area. Doing so will allow you to catch wind and storm damage on your roof early. When not addressed, even minor issues can turn to costly issues, such as leaks, mold, and other water-related problems. Moreover, knowing more about wind damage on roofs can help you determine if you need to contact a local professional for repairs. Discover the truth about the most common misconceptions about wind damage. Common Myths About Wind-Damaged Roofs Shingles With Poor Adhesion Are Wind-Damaged It is common for people to believe that poorly adhered shingles are affected by wind damage. The adhesion of shingles can get compromised due to various reasons. Shingles do not solely lose adhesion due to high winds. What the wind can do is lift and blow off poorly adhered shingles. Some of the most common culprits behind poor shingle adhesion include manufacturing defects, faulty installation, cold weather installation, aging and deterioration. Shingles can also loosen due to adhesive contamination and thermal cycling or constant expansion and contraction. Wind Damage on Roof Is Always Apparent Even if your roof appears fine, you should still get an inspection for storm damage after an extreme weather event. When their roof looks unharmed from the ground, homeowners often believe that there is nothing wrong. However, not all signs of wind damage are obvious until you start experiencing leaks indoors. When the conditions are safe, take a quick check outside and check the first row of shingles from the edge. You may not know it but the wind may have already compromised the waterproof surface of your roof. Products Rated for High Winds Will Constantly Withstand Weaker Winds Roofing products are tested during manufacturing so they can be rated for wind resistance. Quality roofing shingles usually come with high wind resistance ratings. Still, it is not a guarantee that these products are completely invincible against winds weaker than they are rated for. Your roof’s ability to withstand damage also depends on its slope, how it was installed, and any existing problems. You Cannot Avoid Wind Damage on Your Roof Another common myth about wind roof damage is that there is nothing you can do to avoid it. The truth is, many roofs last for decades without sustaining wind damage. Some systems even go beyond their life expectancy. You can prepare your roof for what nature throws at it with regular inspections and maintenance. If you need a roof repair, do not wait long because over time, the problem will only spread and become costly to repair. Helpful Tips to Help Avoid Damage on Your Roof Keep Trees Surrounding Your Home Trimmed You want to keep the debris on your roof to a minimum and trim trees surrounding your home. Branches, leaves, seeds and other fallen debris from trees can scratch the surface of the shingles. They can also hold moisture, which can accumulate and cause damage over time. When the next storm hits, branches and limbs can fall because of strong winds. If the impact is strong enough, you may end up with a hole in your roof or some shingles may fall off. By trimming your trees you protect your roof against damage and prevent small creatures from entering your home through chimneys or vents. Get Regular Inspections Regular roof inspection goes a long way in maintaining the condition of your roofing system. Keep in mind that this task is best left to an experienced roofer. A trained professional would know what to look for and how to climb and walk on your roof without causing damage. Usually, pros inspect the system for sagging, compromised shingles, algae, pests, and pest infestation. If your roof needs repair, they will let you know. Make Sure Your Gutters Are Clean Gutters are essential in keeping your home and landscaping free from water damage. When clogged, they will cause water to back up on the roof and overflow to the rest of your exterior. You should address this problem immediately, because, over time, standing water can harm and weaken your roof. What you can do to avoid clogged gutters is to have them inspected, maintained, and cleaned regularly. With an efficient gutter system, you can avoid issues, such as rot and mold. Ventilate Your Roof and Attic Properly Proper ventilation helps avoid roof damage and can also extend the longevity of the system. The better your roof condition, the less likely it is to sustain wind damage in the next weather event. You can also prevent water-related damage in your homes, such as mold and rot. Other benefits you can get from proper roof ventilation are improved indoor air quality and comfort. Check the Leak-Prone Areas of Your Roof Leaks typically develop on the seals, joints, and flashing on your roof. Loose or dried sealants are signs you may need to get a roof repair. Being proactive when it comes to the needs of your roof will prolong its life. Move Everything Inside Before the Storm Arrives Even before the storm arrives, make sure that you have your vehicles parked inside the garage. It is also a good idea to remove debris, materials, and any object that can get carried by the wind. Experts also recommend removing décor on your exterior before the storm to avoid further damage. Make Sure to Secure Shingles High winds will make shingles more susceptible to getting blown off. You can avoid emergency repairs by making sure your roof secures the shingles properly. There should be at least six nails to hold each shingle down. For added protection, you can invest in a waterproof underlayment under the shingles. Whether you need a roof inspection or repair, you can depend on StormROOF Systems, LLC. Call us at (470) 300-1768 or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate.