Why You Should Check Your Roof for Wind Damage Right Now

Homeowners depend on their roofs to protect the house from the elements like the sun, rain, snow and ice. But your roof has little or no protection from one of its worst enemies: high winds. While the elements can damage your roof over time, strong enough winds can instantly damage even the newest roofs.

Just in case you haven’t noticed, Toronto and the GTA just went through a windy spring time. Just a look at recent news headlines tell the tale of strong winds throughout the spring.

• In March – High winds hit Toronto as weather statements and warnings cover southern Ontario
• In April – Heavy rain, high winds expected on Thursday in Toronto
• In May – Traffic light falls on top of car due to high winds
• In June – A bit of sun, a lot of cold wind

High winds can damage your roof, or lead to damage from other elements, in a number of ways.

1. Raised, Broken or Missing Shingles

Just the sheer force of strong winds can damage the shingles on your roof. From simply raising and curling shingles, winds can also break previously raised shingles or actually blow shingles off the roof.

2. Debris Damage

High winds can pelt your roof with leaves, twigs and even man-made debris, like shingles from someone else’s roof. The force and size of some of that debris can damage your shingles.

3. Moisture Damage

When gusting winds raise one or more of the shingles on your roof, it can leave the section of the roof under those shingles unprotected. Even if it’s just for a second, rain or snow can be blown under the shingles onto the exposed section of your roof. When enough moisture gets under shingles, it can get into your home and cause water damage to your roof’s structure or other parts of your home.

It’s always important to regularly check your roof for signs of damage. It can happen even in the best of weather. But considering the windy spring we had, it’s particularly important for you to check your roof right now. Better yet, call us here at Chouinard Bros. for a professional roof inspection.