How to Identify & Prevent Wind Damage to Your Home

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As homeowners, we invest significant time and resources in maintaining and protecting our homes from various threats. While we tend to focus on common culprits such as water damage or pests, it’s crucial to not overlook the potential dangers posed by wind. 

From mild breezes to powerful gusts, wind can inflict substantial damage to Idaho homes if left unchecked. But fear not! With a little know-how and some proactive steps from Cleanup & Total Restoration, you can keep your home safe and sound, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. So buckle up (or should we say batten down the hatches?) and let’s dive into the wonderful world of windproofing!

The Different Types of Winds

Wind is classified into different categories or types, based on its speed, force, direction, and cause. For example, a large gust of wind that travels quickly in a downward direction due to a storm would be considered a downburst. Other types of wind include: 

• Straight-Line Winds that come from thunderstorms, and are not associated with rotation or tornadoes. 
• Downdraft Winds that are characterised as swift wind gusts toward the ground. 
• Macroburst Winds occur when a downdraft reaches a surface, then becomes an outward gust of wind traveling horizontally. These may begin in small areas and then spread, producing damages similar to tornadoes. 
• Microburst Winds are less intense and quicker versions of macrobursts. These winds can be wet or dry, depending on the precipitation in the air.  
• Gale Force Winds are related to maritime activities, or used in nautical contexts. These winds can reach up to up to 55 MPH and cause forceful tides, waves, and rough seas. 

How Damaging Winds Can Be

Winds can pose significant threats to your home and roof, particularly when they reach certain speeds. While Boise may not be prone to frequent strong winds, it’s essential to recognize the potential damage they can inflict during storms, monsoons, and other natural disasters. Here’s a breakdown of the damages wind can cause:

25-31 MPH Winds

These winds constitute a strong breeze, characterized by audible whistling and visible swaying of tree branches.

32-38 MPH Winds

At this speed, walking against the wind becomes challenging, and trees sway vigorously.

39-46 MPH Winds

Wind speeds in this range may lead to the breaking of tree branches and the lifting of debris such as twigs, leaves, or litter.

47-54 MPH Winds

At this force, winds can cause damage to buildings and structures.

55-63 MPH Winds

Fallen over trees, broken branches, or picked-up debris may be blown into homes and roofs, causing structural damage.

64-75+ MPH Winds

Winds at these speeds may be due to a hurricane or other natural disaster, causing severe damage in its wake, including uprooting trees and flipping small mobile homes. 

How To Identify Wind Damage to Your Roof

You may have noticed wind advisories in the past that were up to speeds that could easily wreak havoc on your home and roof—but how do you identify wind damage?  

Identifying wind damage to a roof or home may be tricky, especially if you live in a multiple-story home where getting on top of your roof takes special precautions. However, if you can safely examine your roof, here are some signs to watch for:

Shingle Damage

Most homes have asphalt shingle roofs, which are vulnerable to losing granules—the protective coating that shields the roof’s underlayment. Strong winds often impact shingles severely, leading to curled edges or even missing shingles altogether.

Flat Roof Wind Damage

If you have a flat roof, specifically a flat rubber roof, check for any cracks or tears in the material. Detecting damage on flat roofs can be challenging as the wind can lift them, causing air bubbles that compromise structural integrity. If you need help inspecting your flat roof for wind damages, call Cleanup & Total Restoration, our expert technicians will be happy to help and know exactly what to look for. 

Damaged Soffit, Fascia, and Chimneys

Like shingles, soffits, fascia, and chimneys located on the roof’s surface are highly susceptible to wind damage. Inspect these components for signs of cracks, displacement, and other structural issues. 

Wind Damage to Your Home

Wind damage poses a significant threat to homes, with roofs serving as the primary defense against its destructive force. Even well-built homes are vulnerable to severe damage during storms, as flying debris such as tree limbs can break or tear through roofs. High winds tend to target the edges or already loose areas of the roof, easily lifting up shingles and causing a domino effect of damage. 

Structural damage from wind may manifest as siding damage, leading to potential water damage to stucco surfaces. Additionally, falling objects and debris can further compromise roof integrity. Over time, prolonged wind exposure can lead to roof leaks and rot due to water infiltration.

3 Easy Tips To Prevent Wind Damage to Your Roof

If you’re a homeowner who wants to take all the steps to secure a long-lasting and sturdy roof, then here are some tips to follow that mitigate potential wind damage: 

1. Batten Down the Hatches
   

   Before a storm hits, it’s crucial to secure all outdoor items. Anything from a lightweight trashcan to a decorative ornament can become a dangerous projectile in high winds. Take the time to stow away or secure these items in a safe location, such as a garage or shed. Consider investing in heavy-duty anchors or tie-downs for larger items like outdoor furniture or grills to prevent them from being lifted or blown away by strong gusts. Remember, proactive measures taken before the storm can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your property and neighboring structures.

2. Trim Trees & Maintain Landscaping
   

   Overhanging tree branches and poorly maintained landscaping can pose a significant risk to your roof during storms. Strong winds can easily break branches and send them crashing onto your roof, causing severe damage. Regularly trim tree branches that hang over your home and remove any dead or weakened limbs that could potentially fall during a storm. Additionally, ensure that your landscaping features, such as shrubs and bushes, are well-maintained and properly anchored to the ground. This will not only reduce the risk of debris hitting your roof but also improve the overall health and appearance of your property.

3. Routine Roof Maintenance
   

   Regular roof maintenance is key to preserving its structural integrity and protecting it from wind damage. Schedule a comprehensive roof inspection at least once a year, preferably before the storm season begins. A professional roofer can identify any weak spots, loose shingles, or damaged flashing that could worsen during high winds. Promptly address any issues found during the inspection to prevent them from escalating into costly repairs or roof leaks. Additionally, don’t forget to clean out your gutters and downspouts regularly to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage to your roof and home’s foundation.

   By following these three easy tips—battening down the hatches, trimming trees and maintaining landscaping, and scheduling routine roof maintenance—you can significantly reduce the risk of wind damage to your roof and safeguard your home against the elements for years to come.

Need Wind Damage Roof Repairs? Call Cleanup & Total Restoration 

When severe winds and thunderstorms have damaged your home, it’s crucial to schedule repair services as soon as possible to prevent them from escalating. At Cleanup & Total Restoration, we understand the urgency of addressing wind damage to your roof. Our experienced team specializes in efficient and reliable roof repairs, ensuring that your home is restored to its pre-damage condition promptly and effectively. Don’t wait until minor issues become major headaches—contact us today for expert wind damage roof repairs you can trust.

Contact Cleanup & Total Restoration Today

FAQ’s

Does home insurance cover wind damage?

Generally, wind damage falls under the coverage of standard homeowner’s insurance policies. However, residents in hurricane-prone areas should consider additional protection and coverage for wind damage.

What wind speed is dangerous?

Wind speeds ranging between 30-45 mph can create hazardous driving conditions. Additionally, wind speeds at 40 mph can start to pose safety risks, so it’s best to stay indoors in a safe location unaffected by severe winds until they cease. 

How strong does the wind have to be to damage a house?

Wind speeds categorized as Strong Gale, ranging from 47 to 54 mph, have the potential to cause structural damage to homes. This may include displacement of chimney covers, loss of roofing tiles, and damage to television antennas