How to Handle Wind Damage Roof Issues Like a Pro

Storms can be scary, especially when strong winds start hitting your home. After a big windstorm passes through your neighborhood, you might notice missing shingles or other problems up top.

A wind-damaged roof can lead to leaks, higher energy bills, and even safety hazards if left unchecked.

Knowing what to look for and how to handle the situation helps protect your home and family. Quick action can prevent small problems from turning into expensive repairs.

Understanding Wind Damage: What Wind Speeds Affect Your Roof?

Wind can seriously damage your roof, but not all winds are created equal. Understanding different wind speeds helps you know what your home can handle.

Light winds (45-57 mph) can loosen shingles and cause minor damage.
Strong winds (58-74 mph) from severe storms cause serious roof problems.
Hurricane-force winds (75+ mph) can tear off large sections of roofing.
Tornadoes are the most dangerous, with winds reaching up to 300 mph.
Your roof’s age and quality matter as much as wind speed.

Common Signs of Wind Damage to the Roof

After a storm, your roof might look fine from the ground, but wind damage isn’t always obvious. Here are ten key signs that tell you it’s time to inspect your roof more closely.

1. Missing or Torn Shingles

This is the easiest damage to spot. Walk around your yard and look for shingles on the ground or hanging from your roof.

Take photos from different angles to show your insurance company. Don’t forget to check your neighbors’ yards too, since wind can carry shingles far away.

2. Lifted, Curled, or Creased Shingles

Strong winds can break the glue that holds shingles flat. Check the corners, edges, and ridges of your roof since these areas get hit hardest.

When shingles lift up, water can easily get underneath and cause leaks. Even slightly curled shingles need attention before the next storm hits.

3. Granule Loss

Granules are the small, sand-like pieces that protect your shingles from sun damage. Check your gutters and downspouts for piles of these granules after a storm.

While some granule loss is normal as roofs age, large amounts mean wind damage. Shingles without granules wear out much faster and need replacing sooner.

4. Damaged or Loose Flashing

Flashing is the metal that seals gaps around chimneys, vents, and skylights. Wind can bend, loosen, or tear this important protection.

Look for gaps, rust, or pieces that seem out of place. Damaged flashing is one of the most common causes of roof leaks.

5. Visible Cracks and Dents

Flying debris during storms can crack or dent your shingles. These marks look different from round hail damage. Even small cracks can lead to big problems if water gets in.

Check your entire roof since debris can hit anywhere.

6. Horizontal Lines or “Chattering” Marks

You might see thin lines where granules have worn off in straight patterns. These marks appear 1-2 inches below the shingle above them.

They show that wind broke the seal between shingles. This damage often happens during storms with strong, gusty winds.

7. Exposed Nail Heads

Wind can pull nails up through shingles, leaving them sticking out. These exposed nails let water drip straight into your roof.

This often means shingles weren’t nailed down properly in the first place. A roofing professional can re-secure these shingles before water damage starts.

8. Damaged Soffit, Fascia, and Gutters

If you see dents, gaps, or sections pulling away from your house, your roof likely has damage too. Check for leaves and branches stuck in your gutters.

These outer parts usually get damaged along with your roof. Strong winds can rip gutters completely off the house in severe storms.

9. Interior Water Damage Signs

Go inside your attic and look at the ceiling for brown water stains or peeling paint. Feel for damp spots and sniff for musty smells.

These signs mean water is already getting through your roof. Check your attic after every major storm to catch problems early.

10. Debris Damage

Tree branches, hail, or other flying objects can punch holes or leave impact marks on your roof. If you see punctures or large dents, call a professional right away.

These need immediate repairs to prevent water damage. Cover any holes with a tarp until help arrives.

How to Safely Assess Wind Damage to Roof: Step-by-Step Guide

After a storm, it’s important to check your roof for damage, but it can be dangerous. This guide shows you how to safely inspect for problems and what warning signs to watch for.

Exterior and Interior Roof Check

Do a quick walkaround outside and a careful scan inside to spot storm damage early. Capture clear photos, note locations, and keep timestamps for easier repairs and insurance claims.

GROUND-LEVEL INSPECTION (SAFE FOR OWNERS)	INTERIOR INSPECTION CHECKLIST
Use binoculars for close-up views	Attic examination (water stains, daylight through the roof)
Walk around the property perimeter	Ceiling and wall inspection
Document with photos and videos	Check around roof penetrations
Check the yard for missing shingles or debris	Document all findings with timestamps
Inspect from windows or upper floors

When to Call a Professional Roofing Contractor?

Some roof damage requires expert help to fix safely and correctly. Knowing when to call a professional can save you money and prevent dangerous accidents.

Never climb on a damaged roof yourself: Professional roofers have proper safety equipment and training.
Call if you suspect hidden or extensive damage: Experts can spot problems you can’t see.
Insurance companies often require professional inspections. This ensures your claim is processed correctly.
Many companies offer free inspections and drone services: Take advantage of no-cost expert evaluations.

What to Do After Wind Damage to the Roof?

Wind damage roof repair checklist infographic with two columns immediate steps and long-term process, with icons and tips.

Finding wind damage can be stressful, but taking the right steps quickly helps protect your home and your insurance claim. Here’s exactly what you need to do first.

Document everything with photos and videos: Take clear pictures from multiple angles and include close-ups of all damage.
Cover holes or exposed areas with tarps: This prevents more water damage, but don’t attempt dangerous repairs yourself.
Call your insurance company right away: Report the damage as soon as possible to start your claim process.
Don’t make permanent repairs yet: DIY fixes can void your warranty and may not be covered by insurance.
Get quotes from at least three licensed roofers: Compare their assessments and pricing before making any decisions.

Working with Insurance and Choosing the Right Contractor

Dealing with insurance and finding a good roofer are the next important steps after wind damage. Getting both right ensures your roof gets fixed properly and your claim gets paid.

Most owners insurance covers wind damage as an “Act of God”: Keep all your photos, videos, and contractor estimates for your insurance adjuster. The claims process typically takes 2-4 weeks, so don’t start permanent repairs until you get approval.
Always verify a contractor’s license and insurance: Ask to see proof before hiring anyone to work on your roof. Check their reviews on Google and the Better Business Bureau to avoid scams.
Choose local contractors over “storm chasers”: Local companies will be around if problems arise later, while storm chasers often disappear after getting paid. Ask neighbors and friends for recommendations of roofers they’ve used before.
Get everything in writing before work begins: This includes detailed estimates, warranties on materials and labor, and a clear timeline for completion. Never pay the full amount upfront; reputable contractors only ask for a small deposit.
Take advantage of free inspection offers from established companies: Many quality roofers offer no-cost assessments, and some use drones for safer inspections. Networks like Owens Corning help you find certified, trustworthy contractors in your area.

Preventing Future Wind Damage to the Roof

The best way to deal with wind damage is to prevent it from happening in the first place. Regular maintenance and smart upgrades can help your roof survive the next big storm.

Roof Maintenance Best Practices

Schedule professional inspections every 3-5 years: Regular checkups catch small problems before they become expensive repairs. Your roofer can spot weak spots that might fail during the next windstorm.
Inspect your roof after every major storm: Even if you don’t see obvious damage, check for loose shingles or debris. Catching minor issues early prevents them from turning into leaks during the next storm.
Keep your gutters and downspouts clean: Clogged gutters add weight and stress to your roof edges, making them more vulnerable to wind. Clean them at least twice a year, especially before storm season.
Trim tree branches that hang over your roof: Branches can scrape off shingles or crash through your roof during high winds. Keep trees trimmed back at least 10 feet from your house.
Fix small problems immediately: Don’t wait to replace a few missing shingles or repair loose flashing. These minor issues let wind get under your roof and cause much bigger damage.

Wind-Resistant Roofing Options

Choose high-wind rated shingles with strong warranties: Look for shingles rated for winds of 110-130 mph or higher. These special shingles have better adhesive and cost only slightly more than regular ones.
Consider impact-resistant materials for extra protection: Impact-rated shingles resist damage from flying debris and hail during storms. Many insurance companies offer discounts if you install these tougher materials on your roof.
Make sure contractors follow proper nailing patterns: Shingles need at least 6 nails each, placed in the right spots to hold during high winds. Poor installation is the number one reason roofs fail, even with quality materials.
Metal roofing can withstand winds over 150 mph: While more expensive upfront, metal roofs last 40-70 years and rarely blow off during storms. They’re ideal if you live in hurricane or tornado-prone areas.
Upgrade to reinforced decking and quality fasteners: Strong plywood and ring-shank nails create a solid base that holds shingles better. This foundation is just as important as the shingles themselves for wind resistance.

Wrapping It Up

Don’t wait to address wind damage to your property’s roof. The longer you delay, the worse the damage can become.

Contact a trusted roofing professional to inspect your home and provide a detailed estimate. Most insurance policies cover storm damage, so file your claim as soon as possible.

Take photos of any visible damage before repairs begin. Protecting your home starts with taking that first step. Call a local roofer today and get your roof back in great shape before the next storm arrives.