How to Spot Wind Damage: Check for Flipped-Up Shingle Tabs on Your Roof

Reading Time: 5 minutes

Did you know there’s a great solution for how to spot wind damage: check for flipped-up shingle tabs on your roof!

Why? Wind can be sneaky. You might not notice it at first glance. After a storm, a sigh of relief as the sun peeks out might mask underlying issues with your roof, such as those pesky flipped-up shingle tabs.

This guide will give you the rundown of how to identify wind damage like a pro and save you from costly repairs. And after reading this piece, you’ll know what to say when someone asks you how to spot wind damage: check for flipped-up shingle tabs on your roof! Let’s dig in.

Table Of Contents:

• Understanding Roof Damage From Wind
  • Flipped-Up Shingles: A Telltale Sign
  • Why Should You Care About Flipped-Up Shingles?
• Inspecting Your Roof: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • 1. Wait Out the Storm
  • 2. Begin With the Ground Game
  • 3. Check the Gutters
  • 4. Look For Leaks Inside
• How Wind Speeds Impact Your Roof
• When It’s Time to Call a Professional
• FAQs for How to Spot Wind Damage: Check for Flipped-Up Shingle Tabs on Your Roof
  • What Are the Strategies for Identifying Wind Damage on Your Shingles?
  • Does Insurance Cover Wind-Related Shingle Repair?
  • How Do You Repair Flipped Shingles?
  • What Do You Do If Wind Blows Shingles off the Roof?
• Conclusion

Understanding Roof Damage From Wind

Although it’s tempting to think of hail and heavy storms as the biggest culprits of roof damage, wind can also cause major damage. High winds often batter vulnerable areas, leading to loose, damaged, or even missing shingles.

This kind of damage doesn’t discriminate based on your roof’s age. Newer roofs are just as vulnerable to wind as older ones; experts have found that edges and pre-loosened areas are prime targets for wind, making those spots highly susceptible to further damage.

Flipped-Up Shingles: A Telltale Sign

Remember those shingle tabs? They’re like your roof’s first line of defense against the elements. But when strong winds buffet your home, these tabs can bend upwards, curl, or even completely flip over.

That’s a clear sign of a wind damaged roof. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. If you spot flipped shingle tabs on your roof, there is a good chance you are experiencing it.

Why Should You Care About Flipped-Up Shingles?

If you ignore flipped-up shingles, get ready for water damage and more expensive repairs down the line.

Water damage can quickly escalate and lead to a whole slew of other headaches, like mold growth and structural issues. It’s important to get damaged shingles repaired to prevent further damage and more costly repairs.

Inspecting Your Roof: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, you’re not a roofer but here’s how you can assess the situation, spot those flipped shingle tabs, and determine whether you need to call a pro. Remember safety first.

1. Wait Out the Storm

After a storm passes, it might be tempting to grab a ladder and assess the situation. However, it’s important to wait until the winds die down and conditions are safe.

2. Begin With the Ground Game

Start with a visual inspection from the ground. Look for any loose shingles or debris in your yard or on your roof. Also, check for any tree branches that may have fallen on your roof.

3. Check the Gutters

Examine your gutters for an accumulation of granules from asphalt shingles — those sandpaper-like bits on shingles. Finding a significant number indicates damage.

4. Look For Leaks Inside

Take a peek inside your attic and check for wet spots or discoloration on your ceiling or walls. This is a strong indicator you’ve got a leaky roof. And a leaky roof is no laughing matter.

How Wind Speeds Impact Your Roof

You’re probably wondering, how strong do those winds need to be before they inflict noticeable damage? The National Weather Service has a handy chart outlining this. Here’s the lowdown:

• 45–57 mph: While this is considered a non-severe range, you might start seeing broken tree branches and potentially damage to any already loose shingles.
• 58–74 mph: Here’s where it gets real. This wind speed range means uprooted trees, significant damage to landscaping, and potential damage to well-secured roof shingles.
• 75+ mph: Brace yourself because this range brings widespread tree and roof deck damage, flipped mobile homes, and more. 

Remember those ranges when gauging potential damage. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

When It’s Time to Call a Professional

Identifying potential damage yourself is a smart first step. However, even a minor issue, if left unchecked, can spiral into costly repairs later. Contacting a professional roofing contractor will give you a clear understanding of your roof’s condition. They can also work with your insurance company if needed — always a plus, right?

FAQs for How to Spot Wind Damage: Check for Flipped-Up Shingle Tabs on Your Roof

What Are the Strategies for Identifying Wind Damage on Your Shingles?

Aside from flipped shingle tabs, other signs that you need a proper roof repair include:

• Missing Shingles: One of the clearest signs that you have wind-tarnished roofing is the complete absence of shingles on certain sections of your roofing.
• Curling or Peeling Shingles: Curling shingles, peeling shingles, or any buckling on shingles that was not present before should be checked by a professional.
• Granule Loss: Asphalt shingle granules are small particles of asphalt that provide protection from the sun. Granule loss, especially excessive granule loss, can be a symptom of a larger roofing issue, such as a wind-damaged roof.
• Damaged Soffit or Fascia: Located on the underside of your roof’s overhang, the fascia (the board) and soffit (the material tucked under the fascia) are prone to water damage but also susceptible to high winds.

Does Insurance Cover Wind-Related Shingle Repair?

This depends on your specific policy. That’s why reading through it carefully is crucial. Don’t hesitate to give your insurance company a shout if you’re uncertain about the coverage. They can help you with the details and any necessary documentation, like a professional roof inspection report, when you’re ready to file a claim.

How Do You Repair Flipped Shingles?

While it’s best to consult a roofing expert, here are a few general pointers:

• Safety First: Avoid working on a wet, slippery roof; wait for a dry, sunny day.
• Assess the Damage: Take a look at how extensive the damage is. A couple of loose tabs might require a DIY fix; major damage means calling in a pro.
• Use Roofing Cement: Gently lift the shingle tab and spread a thin layer of roofing cement beneath it, pressing it down firmly for a secure bond. But always check for manufacturer recommendations.

What Do You Do If Wind Blows Shingles off the Roof?

Discovering missing shingles scattered in your yard is definitely cause for alarm, but here’s the game plan:

• Document: Take photographs of the damage, which is valuable for insurance claims (should you decide to pursue one).
• Tarp It Up (Temporarily): Cover the exposed area with a tarp to prevent leaks—this gives you some breathing room while waiting for those expert roofers.
• Call in the Cavalry: Yes, call a roofing pro as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Now you know what to say when someone asks you how to spot wind damage: check for flipped-up shingle tabs on your roof! It can be the difference between minor repairs and a significant financial headache down the line.

It’s nice to have a handle on DIY maintenance. But it’s even nicer to have reliable roofing expert on speed dial. Request a quote from Campo today!