Severe weather can have a number of different affects on your home. If you have experienced a wind storm the faster the wind is blowing, the more damage is likely to occur.
How does a wind storm damage my roof?
Any storm can damage your roof. Wind alone can be extremely damaging to your roof and the exterior of your home. Strong winds can blow away shingles and expose your roofs underlayment to the elements. During a storm with wind and rain, the wind can blow up the shingles and allow water to penetrate and cause damage. Loose shingles will not perform as intended and you are at risk for future leaks.
How does a wind storm damage my siding?
Wind can exacerbate the affects of hail damage. In extreme cases, strong winds can also lift siding panels away from the wall, disrupting the tongue and groove system that makes them water tight. This, along with holes or cracks in the siding from hail damage, leaves your home vulnerable to water damage. If your damage is limited to a few siding panels, individual panels can be removed and replaced without the need for residing your entire house.
Here are some tips to conduct a quick visual inspection:
- From the ground, visually inspect your roof for missing shingles. Also look for shingles that are raised or do not look normal.
- Inspect your yard for shingles or other material that may have separated from your roof.
- Identify any roof leaks that you may have following a storm. Damage may have occurred that is not visible from the ground.
- Conduct a quick visual inspection of the exterior of your home. Siding or window screens may have also been damaged or missing. Vinyl siding is extremely susceptible to high winds.
Should you suspect damage, then it is important to have your home inspected by a contractor who can spot potential problems and offer guidance for any necessary repairs. Also, you may want to contact your insurance company and discuss a potential claim for damages. Failing to have your home inspected for wind damage could be a costly mistake.
For more information regarding Homeowners Insurance call 540-657-5633.