March 12, 2025 in Roofing, Tips
Preventative Measures to Protect Against Roof Wind Damage
When built well, a roof can be an incredibly strong component of your home. Every shingle can be perfectly installed and cracks and holes may be nonexistent. These are signs of a great installation by talented professionals, but there’s one adversary that, under certain circumstances, puts your roof to the test: Mother Nature. When she’s in a foul mood, the result can be all kinds of roof wind damage—missing shingles, lifted flashing, and even structural damage.
The best way to keep your roof (and your home) protected from these gargantuan gusts is to take proactive steps that will strengthen it against high winds. There are key preventative measures you can take before the next big storm hits, so you don’t have to resort to roof damage repair. As Maryland’s storm season runs from August to October, there’s plenty of time to take action. Let’s discuss.
Choose Wind-Resistant Roofing Materials
One of the most effective strategies in preventing wind damage to roof materials is to use materials that are built with that very purpose in mind. There are plenty of materials to choose from, so you aren’t limited to just one option that may or may not fit your style:
- Asphalt Shingles Rated for High Winds: Shingles with Class F or H ratings can withstand wind speeds up to 130 miles per hour!
- Metal Roofing: This offers superior protection in storm-prone areas thanks to its durability.
- Impact-Resistant Tiles: Roof wind damage is much less likely to occur when your roof is made of clay-and-concrete tiles that are designed with durability in mind.
If you live in an area prone to high winds, it’s also important you ensure that the materials you use comply with local building codes to achieve maximum wind resistance.
Secure Shingles and Flashing
Even the best materials can be ineffective if they’re not properly installed. That’s why it’s vital to secure your shingles with nails and other hardware that’s specifically designed for wind resistance. Additionally, pay extra attention to the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights to ensure it’s fastened and sealed with strong adhesives. Finally, if there are any particularly vulnerable areas of your roof, consider roofing cement or additional sealants.
Reinforce the Roof Decking
To maximize wind uplift resistance, you’ll want a strong roof deck. It’ll help you reinforce your roof’s structural integrity so it doesn’t risk flying away in a storm—we’ve all seen those videos, and we’ve all prayed that never happens to us. Here’s what you can do:
- Use hurricane clips or straps that will properly anchor the roof to your home’s frame.
- Use high-quality, durable plywood for your decking.
- Re-nail your existing decking, or add fasteners for extra stability.
Maintain Gutters and Drainage Systems
If your gutters become clogged or damaged, water can pool and ultimately weaken your roofing materials. If it’s merely a clog with no damage, the fix is likely quick and relatively easy—it can get a little messy, though. Don some gloves and, using a sturdy ladder to reach the gutters, manually remove anything that may be causing a blockage. The process is similar with your downspout, though you may need to utilize a gutter scoop.
If the screws and other hardware used to keep your gutters in place become damaged, it’s important that you rectify this before the next storm hits. Once this damage is fixed, we recommend running a test with a simple bucket of water to ensure you have proper drainage. Simply dump it into your gutter and make sure it reaches the bottom of the downspout!
Trim Nearby Trees and Remove Debris
Overhanging tree branches may not look very threatening, but they have the potential to become dangerous projectiles during a strong storm. Here’s what you can do to minimize risk of needing roof damage repair:
- Remove dead branches, as they are more likely to break off.
- Trim any other branches that pose a risk.
- Clear your yard! Even ground debris can be picked up by strong winds.
- If you plant trees, do so at a safe distance from your home.
Schedule Regular Roof Inspections
The best kind of roof problem is the non-existent one. The second best is the small variety—the type that can be easily addressed before it grows and becomes a big headache. To catch these problems before they evolve into substantial threats, routine roof inspections are highly recommended. Hiring a roofing professional (we happen to know a few) is a good idea at least once a year. Additionally, if there’s an upcoming or recent storm, having a pro inspect for potential roof wind damage can’t hurt! They can identify early signs of wear and tear like curing shingles or rusting flashing, as well as address minor repairs promptly.
Check for Loose or Weak Roof Components
No matter how strong your roof is, it’s important to give it a look after a storm to make sure it didn’t suffer roof wind damage. Here’s what you should inspect for:
- Missing or damaged shingles
- Loose flashing around chimneys and vents
- Unsecured fascia boards or soffits
If you notice any wind damage to roof elements on your home, it’s important to contact a professional for repairs as soon as you can.
Prevent Roof Wind Damage
It’s good to be proactive! By taking steps to prevent roof wind damage, you’re saving yourself immeasurable headaches down the road. By choosing strong materials, trimming branches, giving your gutters some TLC and, of course, scheduling professional inspections, you’ll make sure your home is fortified and ready to stand up to Mother Nature. To schedule your roofing inspection and other services today, you know who to contact: PJ’s Roofing!