Your gut tells to check the roof when you feel a strong breeze blowing in the yard. It’s not just you who wonders how to determine if a roof has been damaged by wind. By taking a quick look, you can avoid having to deal a leak in the middle of the night. Baypoint Roofing teaches homeowners how to calmly and safely inspect a roof for wind damage. It is important to do this for homes that have steep slopes or two-story houses.
It is better to divide this into three steps. The first step is to read the ground. Next, read the edges. Then, look at the patterns. It slows the mind down after a storm.
Before you begin, create a simple plan.
You do not need a ladder to get useful information. You only need a few tools and some good habits.
- Best camera phones
- Binoculars for inspecting the roof
- Record the time, wind direction, and what you see using a notepad or an app
- Shoes that stay on the ground, but grip it.
- You may want to ask a friend or partner to assist you in spotting any loose debris.
You can inspect the roof without having to climb. If you’re tempted to climb the steep roof, step back and take in a deep breathe. Take a picture from the ground rather than risking an unsafe reach.
Start with a ground-level scan, then move to the edges
From the ground, it is simple to check for roof damage and make sure you don’t miss anything.
- Walk around the perimeter
Start wide. Start wide. Wind damage can be easily seen.
- Check gutters & Downspouts
Granules on your roof, bent hangers and seams that have been pulled apart are all signs of a strong wind. Include it in your roof damage checklist.
- Look at the trim and siding
The wind can blow rain onto the field if the drip edge is raised, or a fascia has been moved by a few hairs. Mark any area where the metal looks wavy or protrudes out of the plane.
- Binocular sweep
Use a grid. From top to left and from left to right. Roof inspections from ground level are a great way to check the roof.
Shingle Fields: What to look for
When learning to inspect your roof, focus on patterns instead of a single patch.
- Creased tabs
The wind can lift a shingle and then lower it again. The crease is a thin, horizontal line that appears on the shingle’s face. What to look for when inspecting wind-damaged shingles.
- Misaligned or raised courses
It is possible that the sealant on a course has come loose. Water will pass through these holes during side rain.
- Uneven baldness or heavy granule loss
Granules can be found near the ridges and eaves on your roof.
- The hip cap, or ridge, is missing
The first ones to move when a gust of wind blows are these trees. Once they begin moving, rain follows them like a rail.
- Debris dams
In valleys, palm fronds and seed pods can push water sideways. It is because of this that a roof can leak even if it appears to be clean.
Notes on steep or two-story houses
Even if the pitch is steep, it can conceal flaws. You can still read the story if you move around and use binoculars.
- View the front and rear yards from different angles.
- Check first the valleys running toward you, then those running away.
- Look for sunlight in the cap ridge.
- Check the edge facing leeward, as wind gusts can often be pushed by this edge.
This roof inspection is a reliable tool. No ladder needed.
Edges and flashings tell the truth
Pay special attention to metal transitions when learning how to inspect the roof for wind damage.
- Headwall and Sidewall Flaming
Look for shadows you haven’t seen before. A tiny lift can send water behind the cladding.
- Pipe Boots
Rubber can split or tear at the collar. Binoculars are able to detect the first leak – a small hole in the shape of a crescent.
- Drip edge
If you notice ripples on the surface, it could be that the wind has lifted the first course.
- Chimney and Skylight Curbs
These are also warning signs. Include them in your roof damage check list.
Document as though you were filing a claim
Even if you do not call your insurance company, you will be glad that you have kept records. How to document roof damages without it becoming a full-time occupation.
- Please let us know the date, time and direction of wind.
- Each elevation in wide shot
- Take a second picture with your finger pointing to show scale.
- Video panning to a landmark, such as a vent, window or landmark
Images are more powerful than words, especially in the case where roof damage is evident after a storm.
When to call in a professional
The best rule is to keep it simple. If you notice a raised ridge cap or a wall metal that is loose, or multiple tabs with creases, stop scanning. Call the crew. A roofer can assess the wind damage. We will assess the damage and determine its cause. We will then protect the area affected, plan the repair and secure the area. If you are unsure, call us. Uncertainty should not be a concern, but rather a hint.
A Quick Checklist You Can Copy
This checklist can be used as a check list for roof damage caused by wind.
- As you walk, look for shingles.
- Check gutters for granules and bent hangers
- You can check the ridges on your thighs and hips for missing or twisted caps
- Be on the lookout for bald spots, an incorrectly aligned course or creased tabs.
- Look for debris in valleys
- Check drip edges, flashings, and pipe boots
- Add a video to your wide angle and close up photos
- Write down the direction you remember the wind.
- Select whether you require tarpaulins for repairs or if you need to choose between the two
What is next for Baypoint Roofing?
When you ask us how to inspect your roof, we take into account the structure. We start with the attic if it is accessible safely, then we move on to the exterior, and finally, the photos taken by your phone. If it’s the best thing to do, we can use a tarp. We can tell you whether a minor repair is enough. We show you how to approach a roof that is aging in a phased manner. No pressure. You can use your budget to determine the cause and effect.
Safety reminders that do not have to be exciting but always matter
The steepness is a lesson on humility. Both feet must be on the floor. Do not step on streaks of algae, even on a small roof. You will not get a better view by pushing a ladder into gutters. If you have the proper equipment and enough practice, you can easily fly a drone. Avoid flying your drone in strong winds. It’s all part of the way to inspect a roof for wind damage without having it turn into a rescue.
The FAQ
How can I determine if the damage is real?
Yes. Binoculars are useful for spotting missing ridge caps, creased tabs and drip edges, as well as debris in valleys. How to inspect a roof without climbing.
Two days after the storm, I have a stained roof. Is the wind still blowing?
Possibly. It can take a very long time for water to travel along the frame before it becomes visible. We will verify your safety after we document the situation.
Do I need to use a tarp in an emergency situation?
If you notice that caps are missing or flashings have not been closed, then yes. Decks are protected by tarping and time is bought. We will handle the fasteners, and place them.
What happens if the shingles on your roof are in good condition, but you notice that the gutters contain granules?
If you notice a large amount of granules falling off after a storm, it could be an indication that the sealant is old. Add it to your notes under how to check for wind damage on a roof and ask us to do an inspection.
Does insurance cover minor creases on clothing?
The amount will depend on the policy and its scope. Photos help. We can help you with your documentation and we speak the language of adjusters.
How often should I perform a ground inspection?
After notable storms and at the start of the storm season. Binoculars can prevent weekend leaks in just five minutes.
Baypoint Roofing can be trusted to provide a second set of eyes. We will show you how to inspect a roof and identify the problem. Then we’ll fix it so the next gust of wind is just a sound in the hall, not a leak.
This post was written by a professional at Baypoint Roofing. Baypoint Roofing is a State-certified, insured, bonded, and licensed roofing contractor specializing in insurance restoration, storm damage repair, and expert roof inspections and installations. With over 25 years of experience, we proudly serve the entire state of Florida. Whether you need a complete roof replacement or precise repairs, our skilled team delivers unmatched quality and service. Trust Baypoint Roofing, roofing land o lakes fl, to protect your home or business with solutions that endure the Florida elements and exceed your expectations. Your satisfaction is our top priority.
