How to inspect a roof for wind damage on steep or two-story homes without risking a fall
You feel a strong wind blowing through the yard, but your gut tells you to check the roof. You are not the only one who is wondering how to check a roof’s damage from wind. You can save yourself from having to deal with a leak at 2 in the morning by taking a quiet look. We at Baypoint Roofing teach homeowners how to safely and calmly inspect a roof’s wind damage. This is especially important for steep slopes, or homes with two stories.
This is best divided into three steps. First, read the ground. Then read the edges. Last, read the patterns. After a storm, it slows down the mind.
Create a simple plan before you start.
It is not necessary to use a ladder in order to obtain useful information. All you need is a small toolkit and some habits.
- The best camera phone
- Binoculars to inspect the roof with binoculars
- Notepad or app to record time, wind direction and what you see
- Shoes that grip the ground but remain on it
- If possible, a partner to help you spot any loose debris.
It is possible to inspect the roof without climbing. Step back and take a deep breath if you are tempted to climb that steep roof. It is safer to take a photo from the ground than risking a dangerous reach.
First, Ground-Level Scan Then Edges
Checking roof damage without missing anything is easy from the ground.
- Take a walk around the perimeter
Start wide. Start wide. You can easily see these signs of damage to a roof caused by wind.
- Check gutters & Downspouts
A strong wind is indicated by granules on the roof, bent hangers or seams that are pulled apart. Notify it on your roof damage inspection checklist.
- Take a look at the siding and trim
A drip edge that is raised or a fascia that has moved a few hairs can cause the wind to blow rain into the field. Mark any areas where the metal appears wavy, or protrudes from the plane.
- Binocular sweep
Use a grid pattern. From left to right and top to bottom. Here is where roof inspections at ground level shine.
What to Look for on the Shingle Field
Focus on patterns rather than a single dramatic patch when learning how to inspect your roof for wind damage.
- Creased tabs
A shingle can be lifted by the wind and then lowered again. The crease appears as a thin horizontal line on the face of the shingle. What to look out for when inspecting classic wind damaged shingles.
- Misaligned or lifted courses
If a course looks to be off even by a single finger’s width, it may have loose sealant. During side rain, water will flow through these gaps.
- Bald patches or heavy granule losses
Storm damage can be detected by granules near the ridges or eaves of your roof.
- The hip cap or ridge is missing
They are the first to move in a wind gust. Rain follows the ridgeboard like a rail once they start moving.
- Debris dams
Water is pushed sideways by palm fronds or seed pods that are trapped in valleys. This is why a roof that looks clean can still leak.
Notes for steep or two-story homes
The steepness of the pitch can hide flaws. If you use binoculars and move around, you can still see the story.
- If possible, view the front and back yards from different angles.
- Check the valleys that are running towards you first, and then those that are running away
- Look for daylight in the cap ridge.
- Check the leeward edge, as gusts are often pushed from this edge.
You can trust this roof inspection. No ladder needed.
When Edges and Flashings Tell the Truth
When learning how to inspect your roof for wind damage, pay extra attention to the metal transitions.
- Headwall and Sidewall Flashing
Watch for shadows that you didn’t see before. Water can be sent behind the cladding by a tiny lift.
- Pipe Boots
Rubber can tear or split at the collar. Binoculars can detect the first leak, a small crescent-shaped hole.
- Drip edge
If you see ripples, the wind could have lifted up the first course.
- Chimney and Skylight Curbs
They are also a warning sign. Check them on your roof damage checklist.
Document as if you are filing a claim
You will still be grateful that you kept the records, even if you don’t call your carrier. How to document roof damage without making it a full-time job.
- If you know the time, date and direction of the wind, please let us know.
- Each elevation in wide shot
- Then, take a second photo with your finger pointed to show the scale.
- Video panning from the problem area to a landmark such as a window, vent or landmark
Images can explain what words cannot, particularly in the case of roof damage following a storm.
When to Call in a Pro
Simple is the best rule. Stop scanning if you see a lifted ridge cap, a loose wall metal or multiple creased tabs. Call a crew. Call a roofer to assess the damage caused by wind. We will determine the cause of the damage, protect the affected area and plan the fix. Call us if you’re not sure. Uncertainty is not a problem, but a hint.
A Quick Checklist You Can Copy
Keep this checklist in your mobile phone as a roof wind damage inspection check list.
- Note shingles on the ground as you walk around.
- Check gutters for granules or bent hangers
- Check the ridges and hips of your thighs for any missing or twisted caps
- Watch for bald patches, a misaligned course, or creased tabs.
- Look for debris in the valleys
- Check drip edge, flashings and pipe boots
- Add a short video to your wide-angle and close-up photos
- If you can remember the direction of the wind, write it down.
- Choose whether you need tarpaulins or repairs
What will Baypoint Roofing do next?
We bring structure into the picture when you ask how to inspect your roof for wind damage. If the access to the attic is safe, we start there, followed by the exterior and finally the photos from your phone. We can handle a tarp if it is the smartest thing to do. We will tell you if a small repair is sufficient. We explain how a phased approach would look if the roof was aging. There is no pressure. Just cause and effect based on your budget.
Safety Reminders that are not exciting and always matter
The steepness of a roof is a lesson in humility. Both feet should be on the ground. Even on a small porch roof, do not step on algae streaks. Pushing a ladder in gutters will not give you a better view. You can fly your drone if you have the right equipment and practice. But avoid doing so in strong winds. This is all part of how to check a roof’s wind damage without turning it into a rescue.
FAQ
How can I tell if there is real damage to the ground?
Yes. Binoculars can be used to see ridge caps that are missing, creased tabs, a rippled drip-edge, and debris within valleys. Here’s how to check a roof without climbing.
I have a stained ceiling two days after a storm. Is there still wind?
Possibly. Water can travel along the framing for a long time before it is visible. Call us and document it, we will then verify the access with safety.
Do I need a tarp for an emergency?
Yes, if you see caps missing or flashings that are not closed. Tarping protects decks and buys time. We will take care of the fasteners and placement.
What happens if your shingles are fine, but the gutters have granules in them?
A large amount of granules lost after a storm can indicate aging sealant. You can add it to the notes you have under how to check a roof for damage from wind and ask us to inspect.
Does insurance cover minor creases?
The policy and extent will determine the amount. Photos help. We are able to assist you with the documentation and speak in the language that adjusters expect.
How often should I conduct a ground check?
After storms that are notable and at the beginning of storm season. Five minutes with binoculars will prevent weekend leaks.
Baypoint Roofing is the company to call if you need a reliable set of eyes. We’ll show you how to check a roof, identify the cause, and fix the damage so that the next wind gust is only a sound outside, not a drip in the hallway.
This post was written by a professional at Baypoint Roofing. Baypoint Roofing is a State-certified, insured, bonded, and licensed roofing contractor specializing in insurance restoration, storm damage repair, and expert roof inspections and installations. With over 25 years of experience, we proudly serve the entire state of Florida. Whether you need a complete roof replacement or precise repairs, our skilled team delivers unmatched quality and service. Trust Baypoint Roofing, roofing land o lakes fl, to protect your home or business with solutions that endure the Florida elements and exceed your expectations. Your satisfaction is our top priority.
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