A well-built asphalt shingle roofing system is designed to withstand the elements, including wind. But like most home exterior components, its resistance to this particular natural force is dependent on several factors. The trusted local roofers at Roof Masters explain what these are below.
The roof slope can affect how the overall system can withstand wind damage. For instance, a pitched gable roof tends to be more susceptible to wind pressure because of its steep slopes, longer gable lines and wider eave overhangs. On the other hand, four-sided hip roofing systems are usually more aerodynamic and wind-resistant.
The asphalt shingles should be nailed correctly on the roof deck so they won’t get easily damaged even by strong winds. Almost any professional roofing company uses nails that have a diameter of around ⅜ of an inch. If they were nailed poorly or the wrong type of nails were used, the entire roof could be more vulnerable to wind damage and other elements.
The materials installed in your roofing can also affect its overall wind resistance. How effective your roof is against wind and wind-driven projectiles will only depend on the quality and reliability of the materials you choose. Of course, this shouldn’t be a problem if you’ve invested in better-quality materials.
Wind damage is usually hard to miss on most roofing systems. When checking your roof, look for loose or missing shingles and damaged or missing flashing. If you see any areas that have exposed underlayment, that’s usually where the shingles were blown off. A hole caused by hail or a fallen tree branch is also hard to miss and would require immediate attention to prevent further damage to your home.
Of course, not all types of roofing damage are visible. Even so, they can still compromise the structural integrity if not addressed right away. The only way to identify and address hidden damage is to schedule a thorough inspection with your trusted roofer.
If you need a professional contractor to inspect your roofing system, you can always count on Roof Masters to get the job done! Call us at (301) 230-7663 for a free estimate if you live in Rockville and the surrounding areas. You can also reach us online to get started!