Can 60-70 mph winds and 1-2 inch hail damage roof?

Unfortunately, wind and hail are natural elements that can damage roofs when they are charging at a high speed. In fact, high winds can damage your roof without storms or hail. Wind damage occurs when a strong wind uplifts the roof shingles, rips apart materials or drags debris onto the roof that result in other damage. At a great speed, the roof can cause more damage than ripping out a few shingles.

There were reports of severe thunderstorms with a big hail of at least 3” in diameter and strong winds in April this year, in many parts of Texas. Roof shingles can be damaged by hailstones that are 1/2 or 1/3 -inch in size. So, when a hail the size of a golf ball falls on the roof, it can leave sizeable damage on the roof.

What type of Damage can you expect?

The most common type of damage that occurs on roofs is to the shingles. With a high-speed wind of 60-70mph, shingles will be ripped out of the roof, leaving a sizeable hole in its place. Generally, wind damage occurs when the wind is blowing at the speed of 70-90mph. However, sometimes even a gust of 50mph can damage the roof depending on the age of the roof or the material used to construct it. Hail at size 1-2 -inch can damage the roof and is a more common cause for roof damage in many parts of the country.

Hail can cause minor damage in the form of shedding of the ceramic granules coating the shingles. More severe damage signs would include dents in the shingles or ripping out the shingles or depressions that can be felt above and below the roof. Clay tiles cannot withstand hail damage, though concrete is a more rugged material. After a hailstorm, it is important to regularly check one’s roof to ensure no fine cracks appear on the clay tiles that can escalate into major leakages. With metal roofing, hail can cause dents at the most.

Wind damage can cause missing, curling, splitting, or cracked shingles. At great speeds, it can also cause uplifted shingles, uprooting the nails holding down the shingles. Wind damage can also cause clogged or damaged vents leading to blockages in the ventilator system. You can also experience breeze leaking into the house from the roof or backed up or bent gutters that are filled with debris and don’t function properly. Another common sign of wind damage is missing or damaged chimney flashing.

How to handle roof damage from hail or wind?

The first step is to inspect the roof, ascertain the larger picture of damages on the roof. Next, call a certified roof inspector for a complete assessment of roof damage. Based on the roof inspector’s reports, approach the insurance company to find the extent of coverage you have and begin the claims procedures.

Hail and wind damage can be detrimental and requires expert handling to prolong the roof life. Hence, it is always advisable to have a local roof repair company that has experience in working with such roof damages in one’s contact list.