Roof damage is certainly not a good situation anyone wants to face, but it happens when mother nature comes with catastrophes for humankind. When things go out of control, we have no choice but to stay home or find shelter and wait for it to end.
Studies show that over $270 billion losses were incurred globally due to natural disasters in 2021. That’s quite a figure, right? Roofs also somehow fit into this figure while there isn’t much we can do to stop these events. You can at least improve a roof’s quality to ensure that when something like that hits there is peace of mind knowing your roof can withstand these nerve-wracking conditions.
What Can Cause Roof Damage?
The thought of a experiencing a roof damage is a terrifying one. The very idea of it brings up feelings of vulnerability, insecurity, and danger. So, what exactly can cause such a calamity to happen?
- High winds are a common culprit when it comes to roof damage. It’s like Mother Nature’s way of saying “Hey, you don’t need that roof, do you?” But, in all seriousness, wind can be incredibly powerful, especially during a storm. Strong gusts can get underneath the shingles, creating a sort of lifting effect that can eventually cause the whole roof to come off. Strong winds, hurricanes, tornadoes, and heavy snowstorms can all cause significant roof damage.
- Poor maintenance is another potential cause of roof damage. Neglecting a roof would weaken it and become more vulnerable to damage from weather-related challenges. Loose or missing shingles, cracks, and holes in the roof can create entry points for wind and water, which attack the structure and lead to roof damage.
- Roofs, like all things, have a limited lifespan. And when it reaches the end of its life, it’s not uncommon for it to start disintegrating, leaving it vulnerable to high winds and other elements.
- You might not have thought about it but poor installation can be the reason for a roof getting destroyed. If a roof isn’t installed correctly, it is most likely susceptible to damage from high winds and other forces.
- Squirrels, raccoons, and other critters may seem harmless, but they can put a roof in danger in many ways. These little critters have a knack for finding their way onto your roof and using it as their own personal playground. They will climb trees and jump onto your roof, causing scratches and dents that weaken the structure over time. But the real danger lies in their ability to chew. These animals have incredibly sharp teeth and will chew on anything they can get their little paws on. This includes the roof as well. They may gnaw on the shingles, vents, and even the wooden beams that support the roof.
Understanding Air Pressure
It’s all about understanding air pressure and how it can impact the structural integrity of your roof. Air pressure is the force exerted by the weight of air molecules in a given area. High-pressure systems have more air molecules packed into a smaller space, while low-pressure systems have fewer molecules spread out over a larger area.
When a severe weather event like a hurricane or tornado approaches, it creates a dramatic difference in air pressure between the inside and outside of a building. As wind speeds increase, the air pressure on the outside of the building decreases while the pressure inside increases if the wind finds its way through a window or any other leaks around a property.
This difference in pressure builds up a lifting effect on the roof, where the air pressure on the inside is literally trying to lift the roof off of the building. And it gets even more intensified if the roof has any weak spots, such as missing or damaged shingles.
How Do I Keep My Roof From Blowing Off?
Preventing your roof from being blown off is essential. There are several steps you can take to help minimize the risk of roof damage.
- Make sure your roof is properly installed and maintained. Consider regular inspections and repairs to ensure that your roof is in good condition and can withstand the forces of wind and rain.
- If your roof is still using the old-fashioned ingredients then let’s make a change. Upgrade your roof with stronger materials, such as impact-resistant shingles or metal roofing. These materials are designed to better withstand the impact of high winds and can help keep your roof in place during a storm.
- Your home must be properly sealed to prevent wind from entering and creating a pressurized environment. All windows and doors are tightly closed and sealed, as well as sealing any gaps or cracks in your home’s foundation.
- Don’t forget about your gutters and downspouts, either. Clogged or damaged gutters may cause water to pool on your roof, leading to potential damage and increasing the likelihood of a blow-off during a storm.
- Invest in wind-resistant features, such as hurricane straps or clips, to help secure your roof to your home’s structure. They are powerful and can help reinforce the connection between your roof and walls, making it more difficult for high winds to lift your roof off.
How Do I Know If My Roof Is Damaged By Wind?
Hearing the sound of high winds is often terrifying. Listening to it while you are inside your home and praying for the roof to not get damaged is what everyone does. But how to know whether it is damaged or not? There are some signs to look for once the weather severity comes down to normal. Missing shingles, chimney issues, curling or peeling shingles, granule loss, damaged soffit or fascia and indoor leaks are the straight red signals that a roof has been damaged. Winds between 40 to 57 mph can cause trees to fall – tree branches might end up on your roof resulting in significant damage.
Can Rain Break Your Roof?
Rain is a blessing, but when it goes from a gentle shower to a relentless downpour, it can become a destructive force affecting a range of different aspects of our lives. Usually, roof damage is associated with storm conditions, however, heavy rain alone can actually cause damage to your roof, leading to costly repairs and potential safety hazards.
Has Your Roof Become a Victim of Mother Nature?
Don’t worry, Hastings Roofing is here to help. Our professional roof inspectors can identify potential issues before they turn into something bigger. Giving you the opportunity to address them and prevent damage to your home. Don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule an inspection today to ensure that your roof remains in good condition and ready to withstand whatever Mother Nature throws its way.
