When it comes to roof storm damage, there are a lot of common misconceptions. The first is that hail, high winds, and falling tree limbs are the only things that can cause damage to your roof. While these are certainly major causes of storm damage, they aren’t the only ones. For example, sleet can also be very damaging if it freezes on your roof or gets caught in your gutters.
Let’s discuss the four primary causes of roof damage and how each of these impacts your roof differently. This article will help you understand the type of repair work you’ll need if damage occurs after a storm passes through your area.
What Are the Top Causes of Roof Damage?
If you’re a homeowner, you probably already know how important it is to protect your roof. Heavy storms can whip through your area, causing significant roof damage that requires costly repairs. While the best way to deal with roof damage is to prevent it, you also need to know the common causes of this type of damage. Let’s discuss.
Hail
Hail is a type of precipitation that consists of balls or spherules of ice. It can form in thunderstorms, where strong updrafts carry water droplets up from the cloud base. As the droplets freeze, hailstones form. Hailstones are typically about the size of a marble, but some can be more than one pound and measure the size of a softball.
Hailstorms can cause extensive damage to roofs, causing leaks and making your structure susceptible to future damage from rainwater infiltration.
Heavy Winds
High winds can cause shingles to fly off the roof and onto your property, resulting in structural damage and leaks within your home. In addition, if your roof is not properly secured by nails or screws, roofing material can be ripped out by strong winds and water damage could occur. Heavy winds can also cause flying debris that can easily damage your roof. If you want to learn more about how to protect your roof from wind damage, check out our other blog.
Falling Tree Limbs
Speaking of flying debris. Falling tree limbs are one of the most common causes of roof damage. This is because these limbs can be whipped around by high winds and tear through your roof. If you hear a loud crack or snap, it’s a good idea to check your roof for damage.
Sleet
Sleet is a mixture of rain, snow, and ice. While sleet is not as heavy as hail, it can still cause significant roof damage. In some cases, freezing rain can also settle below the top layer of your roof, causing ice dams that create extensive water damage to your roof. When storms hit, roof damage is typical in Texas and other areas. Without prior notice, trees and other objects might fall, causing severe damage to your house and loved ones. Check read our post What Type of Weather Conditions Cause Fallen Tree Roof Damage if you’re interested in learning more about how storm damage can affect your roof.
Contact Caliber Roofing to Schedule Your Roof Inspection Today!
The best way to prevent storm damage is to be prepared for it. Regardless of how old your home is, you should schedule a roof inspection with a professional roofer every year. In addition to annual inspections, it’s crucial to contact your roofer immediately after a storm if you suspect damage. Caliber Roofing is here to help with all your roofing needs. If you’re in need of roof repairs in Longview, contact us today to schedule your appointment and get the peace of mind you deserve as a homeowner.
