Wind Damage to Roof Shingles: What You Should Look Out For

Blog

How Wind Can Ruin Your Roof Shingles (and What You Can Do About It)

As you already know, the weather in Virginia can be a bit wild. One day, it’s sunny and calm, and the next, you’ve got wind gusts strong enough to send your trash cans rolling down the street. And guess what? Your roof shingles don’t like that one bit!

Let’s talk about wind damage to roof shingles, what it looks like, and how to fix it before a small problem turns into a big mess.

Why Your Roof Shingles Are Vulnerable to Wind Damage

Let’s start with the basics, shall we? Your roof shingles act like a shield, protecting your home from rain, wind, and all sorts of weather. They’re made to last, but even the best shingles have their limits. When the wind picks up speed — especially during storms or those surprise gusts we get in Virginia — it can lift or tear the shingles off your roof.

Think about it: shingles are designed to lay flat, overlapping like scales on a fish. The wind can sneak up under the edges, pulling them up or loosening the nails that keep them secure. And once the wind gets a hold of one, it’s not long before others follow. It’s like peeling a sticker off a book cover — once you get one corner up, the rest comes off much easier.

Common Signs of Wind Damage on Roof Shingles

So, how do you know if the wind has been playing tricks on your roof? Here are the telltale signs to look for:

1. Missing Shingles

This one’s the easiest to spot. If you see patches on your roof where the shingles are missing, that’s a sign the wind has taken a few. Losing just a few shingles can expose the underlayment, leaving your roof vulnerable to water leaks.

2. Curled or Lifted Shingles

When the wind tugs at the edges of your shingles, it can cause them to curl or lift. If you stand back and notice a few shingles sticking up like a cowlick on a kid’s hair, you’ve got wind damage.

3. Granule Loss

Look down at your gutters and driveway after a storm. If you see little bits of what looks like black sand, those are granules from your shingles. Wind can strip these off, and without them, your shingles age faster.

4. Exposed Nails

Nails should never be visible. If you can see them peeking out, it means the shingle has shifted or lifted, and the wind might’ve loosened them up.

5. Leaks and Water Stains

This is the big one, folks. If you see water stains on your ceiling, the wind might’ve damaged your shingles enough to let rainwater seep through. Don’t ignore this — it’s a sign you’ve got a problem that needs fixing fast.

How Strong Does the Wind Need to Be to Damage Roof Shingles?

You might wonder, "How strong does the wind have to be to mess up my roof?" Well, it depends on your shingles' condition and age. Here’s a general breakdown:

Moderate Wind (30-45 mph): Can loosen old or damaged shingles.
Strong Wind (45-60 mph): May tear off shingles, especially if they’re nearing the end of their lifespan.
Severe Wind (60+ mph): Can cause significant damage, ripping off large sections of your roof.

In Virginia, we often get these kinds of winds during thunderstorms or Nor’easters. So, after a stormy day, it’s a good idea to give your roof a quick visual check from the ground.

What to Do If You Spot Wind Damage on Your Roof

So, you’ve spotted a missing shingle or noticed a few curling up. What’s next? Here’s what I tell my customers:

1. Don’t Climb Up Yourself

I know it’s tempting to grab a ladder and take a closer look, but safety first. Slipping on a roof is no joke, and I’d rather you give me a call than risk a fall.

2. Take Photos from the Ground

Snap a few pictures of the damage. This can help when filing an insurance claim later.

3. Call a Professional Roofer

A quick inspection can save you a lot of headaches down the road. We can spot problems you might miss and give you an honest assessment of what needs to be fixed.

How to Prevent Wind Damage to Your Roof Shingles

Now, here’s the good news: you can take steps to protect your roof from wind damage. Here’s my best advice after two decades in the roofing business:

Regular Inspections:Check your roof at least once a year or after a big storm. Catching small problems early can prevent big issues later on.
High-Quality Shingles:Consider upgrading to wind-resistant shingles. They’re a bit pricier, but they hold up better during storms and can save you money in the long run.
Proper Installation:This one’s key. Even the best shingles won’t stand up to high winds if they’re not installed correctly. Make sure you hire an experienced roofer who knows what they’re doing.

Don’t Wait to Fix Wind Damage

Wind damage can sneak up on you, but if you know what to look for and take action immediately, you can save yourself a lot of trouble (and money). Remember, your roof is your home’s first line of defense. Take care of it, and it’ll take care of you.

If you’re ever in doubt, reach out to CCC Construction Services LLC. We are a roofing company with 24+ years of experience, and we are here to help!

Wind Damage to Roof Shingles: What You Should Look Out For

How Wind Can Ruin Your Roof Shingles (and What You Can Do About It)

Why Your Roof Shingles Are Vulnerable to Wind Damage

Common Signs of Wind Damage on Roof Shingles

How Strong Does the Wind Need to Be to Damage Roof Shingles?

What to Do If You Spot Wind Damage on Your Roof

How to Prevent Wind Damage to Your Roof Shingles

Don’t Wait to Fix Wind Damage

Get In Touch

Our Services

Gallery