Do you have wind-damaged shingles on your home?
If so, you need to have them removed and replaced as soon as possible.
If you delay, the wind and rain will continue to attack the underlayment of your home. Eventually, you won’t be able to save it.
If this is something you’re trying to decide, keep reading. Below, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about wind damaged shingles and what you need to do.
Assessing the Damage
To assess the damage, homeowners should inspect their roofs for certain signs. These include water infiltration, rot, and other structural problems.
They should also take photos or videos of the damaged area and measure the length and width of the gap. With this, they can estimate the cost of repair or replacement.
Next, homeowners should check the structural integrity of their roofs. If there are any missing shingles, be sure to take appropriate action. Doing so will help avoid further damage.
Finally, homeowners should inspect the remaining shingles. They should make sure that they are properly sealed. If you’re not sure how to do any of these, you can opt to have professionals do them for you instead.
When to Replace Shingles
When it comes to determining when to replace damaged shingles, there are a few factors to consider. One is the age of the shingles and the extent of wear and tear that has occurred. This can be due to weathering and other elements.
If the shingles are more than 10 years old, you should consider replacing them. This should also be the case if there is considerable wear and tear.
Also, if there are large areas of missing shingles, these need to get replaced immediately. Doing so will prevent further damage to the roof. If you observe curled or cupped shingles, these should also get replaced as well.
Lastly, any broken, cracked, or falling apart shingles need to be replaced. Taking care of the shingles on your roof provides protection and will help maintain the value of your home.
Steps to Take Before Replacing Shingles
Before you replace any damaged shingles, you want to be sure that they are necessary. You don’t want to replace shingles that are just mildly damaged. Below are some steps to take before you start replacing damaged shingles.
Make Sure That Replacement Is Necessary
To do this, inspect your roof thoroughly and look for any signs of water damage, especially near the damaged shingles.
If there is water damage, check the attic to make sure that there is no hidden moisture. If there is moisture, you will likely need to replace the entire roof.
Gathering Materials
If the damage is only to the shingles themselves and there is no evidence of water damage, then you are ready to move on to replacing the shingles. First, gather the necessary materials. These include shingles, roofing nails, a hammer, and roofing cement.
Remove Old Nails
Remove any old nails, then use the roofing cement to securely attach the new shingles. Now, check all your seams and make sure they get sealed.
Holding the Shingles in Place
Finally, use roofing nails to hold the shingles in place. Be sure to use enough nails so that the shingles will get held securely in place. This will help to prevent future damage.
Choosing the Right Replacement Shingles
Choosing the right replacement shingles for your roof replacement job is an important decision. Homeowners should not take it lightly. Many types of shingles are available nowadays. Below are some of the options that you can choose from.
Asphalt Shingles
These are among the most popular options nowadays. This is due to their low cost, ease of installation, and variety of colors and textures.
Laminate Shingle
These shingles are fire-resistant and come in many colors. This makes them ideal for homeowners looking for durable and stylish options.
Metal Shingles
These shingles are more expensive. But, they are also durable and lightweight. They also last much longer than asphalt.
Wood Shingles
These give a natural look and provide insulation. Keep in mind though that they will need more maintenance. This can add up costs if you’re not careful.
Slate Shingles
These are very durable and attractive. But when compared with the other types, they are more expensive. You might want to consider this if you are to invest in this type of shingle.
Tips to Prevent Wind Damage in the Future
Wind damage can be costly, both in terms of money and time. Below are some tips to help you prevent wind damage in the future.
Insulate Your Home
A well-insulated home will minimize the amount of energy that is needed to heat or cool it, which reduces the chance of wind damage.
Properly Mount Your Windows and Doors
Make sure your windows and doors are properly mounted so that they don’t flap in the wind and can resist being blown open.
Secure Your Trees
Make sure your trees are properly secured against strong winds. You can do this by using ropes, brackets, or chains. No matter what approach you take, be sure that you have them properly secured.
Check for Loose Building Materials
Look for loose building materials. This, of course, includes shingles. These could be easily carried away by the wind and cause damage.
Plan Ahead
If you know there is a chance of strong winds in the area, make sure you have a plan in place. Be sure to prepare your home and not just the roof for the wind. Stay up to date on weather conditions in your area so you can prepare for potential wind roof damage.
Get Help From Professionals
If you need help dealing with wind damage, don’t hesitate to reach out to professional services. These people know exactly what to do when it comes to dealing with wind damage and similar issues. You can look online or consider a roof repair specialist found here to get started.
Deal with Wind Damaged Shingles
When tackling wind damaged shingles, it’s important to get professional help if needed. DIY repair is possible. Keep in mind though that it can lead to further complications.
Take the time to research reliable contractors and always trust their expertise. Get the job done right and you’ll have peace of mind knowing your roof won’t need to get repaired again anytime soon.
For more information and tips, check out the rest of our blog.