Short Answer
Potential indicators include missing shingles, lifted shingles, creased shingles, displaced components, damaged flashing, exposed underlayment, damaged ridge caps, and debris impact. A professional inspection should determine whether observed conditions are storm-related.
Detailed Explanation
Wind damage to shingles isn't always obvious from the ground. The most visible sign is missing shingles — shingles that have been blown completely off. But wind can also lift shingles without removing them, creating creases or folds where the shingle bent back during the wind event. These creases are diagnostic of wind damage and indicate that the shingle's seal was broken, making it susceptible to future wind damage even if it's currently lying flat. Other signs include damaged or displaced flashing, exposed underlayment where shingles have shifted, damaged ridge caps, and impact damage from debris blown during the storm. A professional inspection can distinguish between wind damage and normal aging.
Why It Matters
Wind damage that isn't identified and repaired can lead to progressive shingle loss and water intrusion. Documenting wind damage promptly is also important for insurance claims.
When Repair Makes Sense
Wind damage is limited to a few shingles in a specific area and the rest of the roof is in good condition.
When Replacement Makes Sense
Wind damage is widespread across the roof, or the shingles are old enough that repair shingles may not match or the remaining shingles are also near end of life.
Questions to Ask Your Contractor
- ?Is the damage storm-related or age-related?
- ?How many shingles are affected?
- ?Are there creased shingles indicating the seal was broken?
- ?Is the damage localized or widespread?
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