As a homeowner, you don’t think much about your asphalt shingle roof as long as it can protect your home from the elements. However, you shouldn’t forget to get routine maintenance if you want it to stay effective throughout its lifespan. After all, even a well-built roof is vulnerable to unpredictable weather conditions and may get damaged without you knowing. Wind, for instance, isn’t usually a threat to your roof, but under the right conditions, it can cause significant damage.
As a homeowner, you need to be aware of the factors that impact your roof’s wind resistance. Bone Dry Roofing – West explains what you need to know:
Typical Roof Wind Damage Factors
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Shingle nailing. The shingles must be correctly nailed on the roof deck to prevent them from being lifted easily by the wind. Each nail should also have a diameter of at least ⅜ of an inch. If they weren’t nailed properly or the wrong type of nails were used, it can result in a roof that’s more vulnerable to wind damage and other weather elements.
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Quality of material. The roofing materials you use will determine how strong the structure is. The integrity of your asphalt shingles is only as good as the quality of your other materials. Investing in better quality materials can increase its damage resistance to strong winds and wind-driven debris.
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Roof layout. The slope of the roofing system can make a difference in how it can withstand wind damage. Pitched gable roofs, for instance, are more susceptible to wind pressure because they have higher slopes, longer gable lines, and wider eave overhangs. As for aerodynamic, four-sided hip roofs, they’re usually more resistant to wind damage.
How to Look for Signs of Wind Damage
In many cases, wind damage is relatively easy to identify on roofs. Some telltale signs include loose or missing shingles, mangled or missing pieces of flashing, and even exposed underlayment in areas where shingles once were. A gaping hole caused by a fallen tree branch is also hard to miss and can cause active leaks if temporary repairs aren’t fixed.
However, not all types of wind damage can be visible. Even if your roofing system looks intact, don’t think twice about having it thoroughly inspected by a professional. This is the best way to know if your roofing system has suffered recent wind damage!
When you’re looking for a professional roofing and skylight installer, Bone Dry Roofing – West is your best choice for the job. If you live in Fort Collins, CO, and the surrounding areas, call us at (970) 364-7996, or fill out our contact form online!
