The Hot and Windy Idaho Climate Causes Severe Roof Damage

Many roofs are not built to withstand the extreme temperatures and wind we experience here in Idaho. The combination of heat and wind can cause shingles to curl and lift, allowing water to seep in and causing extensive damage.

Knowing how to spot the early signs of roof damage can help you avoid costly repairs.

How does Wind Damage the roof?

The following are the different ways wind can damage roofs:

1. Damage from debris

The wind might not directly damage your roof, but it can hurl objects that will. High winds like those in Idaho can cause tree branches and other debris to fall on your roof, puncturing holes in the shingles or tearing off entire sections.After extreme weather, inspecting your roof for any missing shingles or holes is important. If you see any damage, contact a roofing contractor as soon as possible to have the damage repaired.

2. High winds can lift shingles

High winds can also lift shingles, exposing the nails and allowing water to seep in. The suction effect of the wind can also cause shingles to peel away from your roof entirely. If you live in an area that experiences high winds, be sure to have your roof regularly inspected for any lifted or missing shingles.

3. Curling

Winds can also cause shingles to curl. As shingles age, they become less flexible and more susceptible to damage from the wind. If you see any curling or lifting, it’s important to have your roof inspected by a professional.

4. loosening of seals

Areas with windy conditions can also cause the seals around vents and chimneys to loosen. This can allow water and debris to enter your home, causing damage to the interior of your home as well.

If you live in an area with high winds, check the seals around your vents and chimneys regularly to ensure they are tight and secure.

5. Shingle granules

Shingle granules can be torn from the shingles in high winds, leaving your roof vulnerable to water damage. If you see any missing granules, it’s important to have your roof inspected by a professional.

How to Identify Wind Damage to the Roof

There are a few key signs you can look for to identify wind damage to your roof:

1. Spots of Granules Missing from your Shingles

One of the first signs of damage is missing granules. Look for spots on your roof where the granules are missing or have been torn away. This is a sign that the wind has damaged your shingles and needs to be replaced.

2. Entire Shingles Missing from the roof

The wind is known to tear shingles right off the roof. Look for any areas where shingles are missing entirely. This damage is usually more severe and will require the help of a professional to repair it.

3. Cracked or Damaged Shingles

Another sign of damage is cracked or damaged shingles. The wind can cause shingles to curl up or crack, leading to leaks. If you see any damaged shingles, it’s best to have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible.

4. Roof Edge Curling

This sign is the easiest to spot from the ground. If you see that the edges of your roof are beginning to curl up, it’s a sign that the roof is beginning to fail. This is usually caused by wind damage and can lead to leaks if not fixed.

5. Damaged Soffit or Fascia

The purpose of the soffit and fascia is to protect your roof from the elements. If you see that these components are damaged, it’s a sign that the wind has caused damage to your roof. This damage can lead to leaks if not repaired.

These are just a few of the signs that can indicate wind damage to your roof. If you see any of these signs, it’s essential to have your roof inspected by a professional as soon as possible.

The above is some of how wind can damage roofs. It is essential to be aware of the different signs of damage to get your roof repaired or replaced as soon as possible. If you live in an area with high winds, be sure to have your roof regularly inspected to avoid any costly repairs.

How Do You Avoid Wind Damage?

Since wind damage is one of the leading causes of roof damage, it’s important to take steps to avoid it. Here are some tips to help you avoid wind damage to your roof:

1. Inspect your roof regularly.

The best way to avoid wind damage is to inspect your roof regularly. This will allow you to spot any damage early on and repair it before it becomes a bigger problem.

If you live in an area with high winds, it’s best to have your roof inspected by a professional at least once a year.

2. Protect Your Home from Debris

Protecting your home from debris is one of the best ways to avoid wind damage. If you live in an area with high winds, it’s important to keep your gutters clear of leaves and other debris.

Trimming trees and shrubs around your home can also help prevent wind damage. If branches are hanging over your roof, they can be broken off by the wind and cause damage.

3. Repair Damaged Shingles

If you spot any damage, it’s important to have it repaired as soon as possible. The longer you wait to repair the damage, the more likely it becomes a bigger problem.

Repairing damage early on can help avoid more extensive damage and costly repairs down the road.

4. Install a Wind Resistance Barrier

Idaho homeowners can also install a wind resistance barrier to help protect their homes from wind damage. One can install this barrier under the shingles and around the roof’s edges.

It’s important to note that a wind resistance barrier is not a substitute for regular roof maintenance. Be sure to inspect your roof regularly, even if this barrier is installed.

5. Hire an Experienced Roofing Contractor

The best way to avoid wind damage is to hire an experienced roofing contractor. A good contractor will know how to properly install and maintain your roof to help prevent wind damage.

When choosing a roofing contractor, be sure to do your research. Check reviews and ask for referrals from friends or family.Hiring a reputable contractor can help you avoid many problems down the road, including wind damage.

Wind damage is one of the leading causes of roof damage. By taking steps to avoid it, you can help protect your home and prolong the life of your roof. Inspect your roof regularly and repair any damage as soon as possible. If you live in an area with high winds, consider installing a wind resistance barrier. Consider installing gutter guards to prevent excess weight adding to the roof. And most importantly, hire an experienced roofing contractor to help you avoid problems down the road. With these tips, you can help keep your roof in tip-top shape and avoid costly repairs.