WIND

Straight-line winds and twisters are a roof’s most potent combatant. While roofs are designed to hold up to even hurricane-force winds, shingles, tiles, and flashing are prone to uplifts that can dislodge roof material, exposing nature’s elements to roof layers below. When the roof’s top layer is compromised, moisture can find its way to the roof decking and result in costly leaks.

• Flying Objects

Other hazards of heavy winds include objects that could take flight from your property and those around you. Lawn furniture, building materials, signs, and tree branches can become airborne threats. If you know a storm is coming, secure loose objects around your property and alert your neighbors to do the same. But the wind itself, and the rain it carries with it, are the chief culprits of roof damage.

• Shifted or Missing Tiles, Moisture Penetration

Following a wind event, there may be little or no sign of missing shingles that have blown away. However, just as problematic are shingles that might have curled, creased, or fractured. Wind dynamics, like updrafts and down-bursts, lift roofing shingles. The shingles often simply lay themselves back in place, as designed, but while they flapped up and down, rain could have found its way into the roof’s sublayers. You will not see all the damage from a wind event, but a reputable roofing contractor will detect any critical issues caused by strong gusts.