There is a certain time of the year in South Jersey where there always seems to be a chance of high winds and thunderstorms. During that time, your shingles could easily be damaged by those strong winds. High winds are dangerous, as they can lift and loosen shingles with ease, ripping them away from your roof. When that happens, your roof could develop leaks that allow moisture to seep through to the underlayment and beyond.
If you think your roof in Washington Township, NJ has been damaged by high wind, there are some signs and ways to go about fixing those issues. Let’s jump right in.
Key Takeaways
- Look for missing, lifted, cracked, or granule-lost shingles, as well as indentations, tears, or compromised flashing. Signs of water damage inside the attic or interior should also be noted.
- Contact your insurance company to discuss coverage for repairs. Document the damage with photos and schedule an inspection with a local roofing contractor.
- Delaying shingle repairs can lead to further damage, increased energy costs, mold growth, and decreased property value. Addressing issues promptly helps maintain the integrity and value of your home.
How to Identify Wind-Damaged Shingles in Washington Township, NJ
Once you suspect wind damage, it is time to step outside and start performing the following tasks:
- Inspect for Missing Shingles: Look for any noticeable gaps or areas where shingles are completely missing from the roof. Strong winds can dislodge shingles, leaving behind exposed underlayment.
- Check for Lifted Shingles: Examine the edges of the shingles for any signs of lifting or curling. Wind can lift the edges of shingles, compromising their integrity and allowing water infiltration.
- Look for Cracked or Broken Shingles: Inspect the surface of the shingles for cracks or breaks caused by wind impact. Cracked or broken shingles weaken the roof’s ability to withstand further wind damage and water penetration.
- Check for Granule Loss: Wind can strip away the protective granules on shingles, exposing the underlying asphalt layer. Look for areas where the shingles appear smooth or have patches of missing granules.
- Inspect the Roof for Indentations or Tears: Wind-blown debris can cause indentations or tears in the shingles. These damages may not be immediately apparent but can lead to leaks and further deterioration over time.
- Examine Flashing and Sealant: Inspect the flashing around roof penetrations and the sealant along roof edges and joints. Wind damage may compromise these components, leading to water intrusion and subsequent damage to the underlying structure.
- Look for Signs of Water Damage Inside: Check the attic or interior ceiling for signs of water stains, dampness, or mold growth. Wind-damaged shingles can allow water to penetrate the roof, leading to interior damage if left unchecked.
How to Repair Wind-Damaged Shingles in Washington Township, NJ
Finding wind-damaged shingles or signs that shingles are missing can be daunting, especially if the damage is extensive. Fortunately, as a homeowner in Washington Township, you have insurance, and that insurance can help cover the cost of the repairs. Take pictures of the damage and call your insurance company to discuss the damage. They may ask for you to send them pictures to verify the damage. Then they will send out an adjuster to take a look in-person.
The adjuster will determine how much can be covered by your insurance policy. In some events, you may have to pay a deductible. Once you have completed that step, it is time to call a local roofing contractor in Washington Township to assist with the repairs.
The roofing contractor will do another roofing inspection to ensure that the roof deck has not been damaged. If there has been any water infiltration, that will need to be corrected first. Then the roofers will get to work with replacing the damaged or missing shingles. Creased, torn, or loosened shingles are most likely replaced completely while curled shingles are often glued down with a strong adhesive.
Can I Wait to Have My Damaged Shingles Repaired or Replaced?
While it may be tempting to postpone repairing or replacing damaged shingles, it’s generally not advisable to wait for several reasons:
- Risk of Further Damage: Damaged shingles compromise the integrity of your roof, leaving it vulnerable to water infiltration, leaks, and structural damage. Waiting to address the issue can result in more extensive and costly repairs down the line.
- Increased Energy Costs: Damaged shingles can lead to air leaks and reduced insulation effectiveness, causing your heating and cooling systems to work harder to maintain indoor comfort. This can result in higher energy bills over time.
- Potential for Mold and Mildew: Water intrusion through damaged shingles can create a conducive environment for mold and mildew growth in your home’s interior, posing health risks to occupants and requiring additional remediation efforts.
- Decreased Property Value: A roof with visible damage can detract from the curb appeal and overall value of your property. Addressing damaged shingles promptly can help preserve your home’s resale value and marketability.
Contact a Local Roofing Contractor in Washington Township Today
Winds can rip and tear at the shingles on your roof in Washington Township, NJ. If you suspect damage has been done, don’t wait. Connect with a local roofing contractor to help you repair the issues and keep the problems from getting worse. With over two decades of experience and many satisfied customers, the team at RGB Construction can help. We are GAF-certified and passionate about what we do. Give us a call at 856-264-9093 or fill out the online form to schedule your consultation or receive an estimate.
