As a Des Moines Roofing specialist, we recognize first-hand how substantial wind events can really mess up a roof! Flying wreckage such as branches and limbs from trees, gravel, sand, rocks, and even chunks of glass will sometimes do more damage than the wind alone. When you check your roof after a large wind storm, be sure to also search the premises for debris. While you are doing that, take some time to examine your gutters and downspouts to be sure they are not clogged which can lead to even bigger problems in the future. Gutter screens and covers are a good way to keep your gutters flowing properly by keeping unwanted debris from collecting and creating a blockage.
Another prevention tip is to trim your tree branches back 10 feet or more from your roof. Branches that are close or even touching your roof will rub and damage the shingles as they blow in the wind. If a large branch drops directly onto your roof from high above it could even put a hole in it.
Detecting Damage From The Wind
Keep an eye out for missing and damaged shingles (warped, cracked, warped, blistered, ripped, granular-loss) on your roof and encompassing your property. If the damage is confined to a small enough area a Des Moines Roofing Contractor can make a repair. If the damaged area is too large then a partial or full roof replacement may be required. Also, you will want to consider that other parts of your roofing system and appliances could have sustained damages so be sure to check those too.
What You Should Do
If your roof possesses visible wind damage you want to have it repaired ASAP as it will only get worse with time. The cost of a replacement or repair is much more inexpensive when the extra charges for fixing leaks and water damage are not involved. Talk to your insurance agent to evaluate the condition and decide if you should file a claim. Completely document any damage that happened and save all your receipts for the work done (including any DIY projects) such as masking broken windows or cracks in your roof to expedite reimbursement if you record a claim. Numerous policies will coverthese renovationswhen they are combined with theclaim.