Roof damage is one of the things that homeowners dread most. Even though your roof is designed to protect your home from the elements, it can get damaged in severe weather. A damaged roof will almost always create a leak. Leaks damage your attic and ceiling, contribute to the growth of mold, and compromise the structural integrity of your home. While several things can lead to roof damage, one of the most important things to protect your roof against is wind and hail.
Wind can cause tree branches and other flying debris to strike the roof and break or loosen the shingles. And, if you live in an area like South Carolina where hailstorms occur, frozen rain can also harm your roof. In some cases, you won’t have time to prepare. Even small pieces of hail can cause dents and dings in your roof. Luckily, you can take steps to minimize the impact of both hail and wind. Let’s look at some of the things you can do.
Protect Your Roof Against Wind and Hail
You need to know if you already have missing or cracked shingles or a roof structure on the verge of collapse. Strong winds and hail will only make things worse. While it’s important to get the roof inspected after a storm, you should also schedule regular inspections. You need to have a professional examine the inside and outside of the roof for signs of damage.
If there are preventative steps you need to take before the next storm, they’ll let you know. Even small problems can make your roof vulnerable. The older your roof is, the more likely it is to be vulnerable. Unsealed shingles, warping and curling are all signs of damage.
You should also take a look at the ceiling of your attic. Water damage like mold, mildew, dark stains, streaks, and excessive humidity may mean you have water damage. Without repair, hailstorms are sure to cause further issues.
Trim Trees That Hang Over the Roof
Having trees around your house can make your home cooler and improve the quality of the air. However, if they reach the roof, they can be hazardous if high winds blow. A falling limb can cause serious damage to your roof. To prevent this from happening, cut off any branches which are over the roof. You should also ensure that old, rotting trees are removed promptly. After all, having a whole tree fall on your home could be disastrous. If you need to call in the professionals to get this done safely, do so.
Think About Getting Hail and Wind-Resistant Roofing Products
If you have to repair or replace a damaged roof, consider getting high-quality materials that will provide better protection. Some shingles are designed to withstand various wind speeds as well as the impact of hailstones. These shingles can be made of plastic, resin, copper, and aluminum. The shingles that are most resistant to hail have a Class 4 rating. The highest rating is UL2218 and these roofing products can also withstand winds of up to 110 miles per hour. However, if you can’t afford these products, modified asphalt shingles are a more affordable alternative.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Wind and Hail Damage
Despite your best efforts, your home’s roof may still suffer damage. If you delay the repair of minor problems, they will cost more in the long run. The holes in your roof might not be leaking now. However, if water seeps in, it can damage your ceiling and attic. The moisture may attract pests and insects which also contribute to the growth of mold. That’s not all. When you opt not to call your insurance provider immediately, the adjuster may refuse to cover the cost of your repairs. Another thing to consider is that putting off roof repairs can cause your home to decrease in value. If you plan to resell and you want to get the maximum price, you need to think about this.
Whether your roof has already suffered damage from hail or high winds or you want to prevent damage, we can help. While roofing issues may seem complicated, you don’t have to handle everything on your own. When you work with certified roofing contractors in Greenville, South Carolina, you can be sure your roof is in good hands. We do everything from inspections to preventative maintenance, repairs, and roof replacements. Schedule an inspection and we’ll advise you about what needs to be done to protect your roof against wind and hail. We offer free estimates.
* Subject to approved credit through Foundation Finance Company LLC and business acceptance. Terms and conditions may vary. Contact business prior to applying to discuss available offers. Business will provide terms and disclosures upon credit approval.
