Strong storms and big winds can harm your whole roof but not all damage is visible. While some signs—like damaged shingles or fallen branches—are easy to see, other types of roof damage can go unnoticed till you get leaks or structural problems.
Knowing what first notice damage to look for after a storm can save you from expensive roof repair bills later on.
Insurance companies play a big role in the claims process for wind damage. Proper documentation and communication with your insurance provider is key, as each insurance company has different claims process and insurance coverage limitations.
Signs of Wind Damage on Your Roof
1. Missing, Lifted, or Creased Shingles
One of the most common sign of roof damage is missing or displaced shingles. Big winds can tear them off completely or lift them and lose their adhesive seal making your roof prone to leaks. Even if shingles look intact, check for creases or curling edges—this means they’re weakened and may detach on the next storm. Big winds can also cause shingles to be displaced from the roof deck, which can lead to leaks and interior problems.
2. Granule Loss on Asphalt Shingles
Your shingles are coated with granules that help protect them from heavy rain, sun exposure and wind. If you notice excessive granules in your gutters or around your home, it means the shingles have deteriorated. This loss reduces your roof’s durability and increases the risk of water stains and leaks inside your home.
3. Flashing and Gutter Damage
Roof flashing is important to prevent leaks around chimneys, vents and skylights. Big big winds can loosen, bend or even detach flashing leaving gaps where water can enter. Damaged or clogged gutters is another red flag—when gutters can’t drain properly, water backs up and seeps into your roofing system, causing further storm damage. If you see water stains on your ceiling or walls after a storm, your roof is probably compromised, due to roof wind damage. Leaks can come from missing shingles, flashing issues or wind driven heavy rain forcing water under roofing materials. Check your attic for damp insulation or mold growth to confirm if roof damage is allowing moisture inside.
5. Structural Shifts or Loose Roofing Materials
For metal and flat roofs, big winds can loosen panels or shift roofing components. Even small misalignments can cause long term, water damage or penetration. If you hear rattling noise during storms or see uneven roofing lines, your roof needs professional attention.
6. Hail Damage and Impact Marks
If a storm had very strong winds or hail, inspect your roof for:
- Hail damage dents on metal roofing
- Cracked or broken shingles
- Impact marks on siding, vents or flashing
Hail not only causes visible damage on your roof, but it can also weaken the whole entire roof structure making it more prone to future roof damage.
What to Do If You Think Your Roof Is Damaged
1. Visual Inspection
After a storm, safely inspect your roof from the ground using binoculars. Look for missing shingles, damaged flashing or clogged gutters. Don’t climb on the roof yourself as unseen structural damage can make it unsafe.
Knowing wind speeds can help you assess the potential damage to your roof, as different wind speeds from as low as 30 mph can cause varying levels of damage to new roof, depending on your roof condition and materials.
2. Document the Damage
Take clear photos of any signs of storm damage, including damaged shingles, missing flashing and interior water stains. This will be important if you need to file an insurance claim.
3. Call a Professional Roofer for an Inspection
Not all wind damage is visible. A professional, roofing company or contractor can identify hidden structural weaknesses, inspect for leaks and provide expert recommendations. A thorough inspection can detect even the smallest issues before they become major repairs.
4. Contact a Reputable Roofer for Repairs
If you have roof storm damage, don’t wait to repair. Even small issues can get worse over time and lead to mold growth, higher energy bills and expensive structural repairs. A reputable roofing contractor will fix your roof properly using top quality materials and industry standards.
5. File an Insurance Claim If Necessary
Many homeowners’ insurance policies cover storm damage, including wind and hail damage. To make the claims process easier with your insurance company:
- Review your policy to understand coverage
- Get a professional roofer to provide an inspection report
- Submit detailed documentation with photos to your insurer
Don’t Wait—Protect Your Home Now!
If your home has been hit by high winds, heavy rain or hail, don’t ignore warning signs of potential wind damaged roof issues. What seems like a small issue today could become a big problem later.
Schedule a Free Roof Inspection Today! A thorough inspection can catch wind damage early and prevent costly roof repair bills. Contact GMT Roofing Services for professional and reliable service you can trust!
