The force of nature is often destructive and the roof does not escape this reality. High winds and hurricanes can cause damage and disaster to roofs, the same affectation happens to asphalt shingles when there are heavy rains, snow and hail. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimates that damage to asphalt shingle roofs begins when wind speeds reach 50 MPH, although the roofs are built to withstand 90 to 150 MPH.
Effects of Wind to The Asphalt Shingles Roofing
Wind does not tend to remain in constant and fixed motions, its different positions and velocities in response to atmospheric pressure and temperature can cause predictable effects on the roof structure. The wind and wind pressure can hit the roof in different areas of your house, which can lift the shingles and fall again once the storm passes, this can be generated by problems in the installation, the nails may have loosened and affect the waterproof layer and the resistance capacity decreases when facing strong winds, can also break the adhesive strips, also affects the shingles are misaligned, poor sealing or lack of lath shingles, all these drawbacks make the roof loses resistance to natural phenomena.
Factors That Influence How Wind Affects Your Asphalt Shingle Roof
There are several factors that must be taken into account when considering how wind can affect the quality and performance of the roof
1-The geographic location of your home in the face of natural phenomena such as wind.
If the house is located in an area considered to be highly influenced by hurricanes or tornadoes, these phenomena tend to occur frequently and damage to your roof is more vulnerable, so you should be forewarned and alert.
2-The shape of the roof
Aerodynamic hipped roofs are more resistant to the influence of wind than gable roofs with high slopes and overhangs, since in this type of geometry, wind uplift is more likely to cause damage.
3-Bad installation
Misaligned shingles, poorly sealed flashings, improper nailing, failure to place shingles at the beginning of the roof, these conditions can affect the roof and the effect of winds on the roof tends to be greater.
4-The age and condition of the roof
If the old shingles are cracked or brittle, the sealing was not placed evenly at the time of installation, these conditions make it more prone to wind damage.
Signs of Wind Damage on Asphalt Shingle Roofs
When your roof shows signs of deterioration, it is important to evaluate them as some are more visible than others. Once the weather event has passed, it is important to consider the following aspects:
1- Loose or detached shingles from the exposed underlayment.
2- Holes in the roof caused by falling tree branches.
3- Missing or broken shingles or flashings
4- Windblown debris tracking on roofs.
Indications of Wind Damage on Asphalt Shingle Roofs
Once the effects of storms, high winds and hurricanes have passed, it is necessary to make an inspection of the roof and verify the condition of the roof, take photos, scan, check the edge of the shingles for raised shingles, broken seals, damaged vents. Take into account the safety conditions, and the use of proper protective equipment, make a summary of the evidence of damage that may affect the quality, serviceability and durability of the roof.
We offer you in our contractor the ideal help and solution to these problems. If you’re in the market for new roofing in McMurray, PA turn to Pittsabana Contracting Services LLC. This local roofing company employs team members who are certified by CertainTeed and committed to delivering premium service on every job, from repairing storm-damaged commercial buildings to fully replacing residential roofs. Call (412) 580-6567 to speak with a friendly staff member to schedule service or visit the website to learn more about how they’ll help you.
