8 Signs That Wind Has Damaged Your Property
When severe weather hits, the signs of wind damage can be tough to detect at first. Knowing what to look for early on can help prevent more serious issues down the road.
Whether your home has experienced high winds or a heavy storm, spotting wind damage quickly can help you deal with repairs before they get worse.
If you suspect your property has been affected, reaching out to a professional for a structural assessment can provide you with a complete overview of any issues.
The following covers the top signs of wind damage to be aware of and what steps to take if your property is affected.
Damaged Roof Shingles
One of the most common high wind signs is damage to your roof. High winds can lift shingles or tear them off entirely, leaving your home exposed to further damage. If you notice missing or loose shingles, your roof may have sustained damage.
Also, granule loss from shingles can indicate that the wind has worn away protective layers. If left unchecked, this can lead to leaks and more serious roof damage.
Broken Windows and Shattered Glass
Wind speeds from storms or hurricanes can result in broken windows and shattered glass. If you spot cracks, chips, or shattered glass around your windows, this could be an indication of wind impact.
Often, wind-blown debris such as tree branches or other objects can cause damage, so it’s important to inspect all windows, especially those facing the wind’s direction.
Fallen Trees or Large Branches
Another sign of heavy wind damage is fallen trees or large branches around your property. If you find that a tree has fallen or branches have broken off, there’s a high chance that high winds are responsible.
Not only can fallen trees cause damage to your roof, but they can also block access to your home, creating safety hazards. Remove fallen branches or trees immediately to prevent further destruction.
Damaged Fencing or Outdoor Structures
Fencing and other outdoor structures, like sheds or pergolas, are particularly vulnerable to high winds. Strong gusts can cause fences to lean or even collapse entirely.
If you notice any broken or bent areas on your fence, it’s a sign that your property may have experienced wind force. Similarly, if you have any free-standing outdoor structures, these can be torn apart or displaced by strong winds.
Flooded Basements or Water Damage
High winds can also cause indirect water damage. For instance, if the wind is strong enough to push rainwater into your home, it can lead to flooded basements or water damage in parts of your property.
Pay attention to areas with noticeable water stains on ceilings or walls, especially after a storm. This can be a sign of wind-driven rain entering through gaps or cracks in your property.
Loose Gutters and Downspouts
Another telltale sign of wind damage is loose or broken gutters and downspouts. Wind can pull gutters away from the sides of the house, causing them to sag or fall off completely.
This not only compromises the ability of the gutters to direct water but can also lead to water damage in the walls or foundation. Inspect your gutters after high winds to make sure they’re intact and functional.
Distorted or Damaged Siding
Siding is another part of your home that can suffer from wind damage. High winds can cause siding to buckle, crack, or break away from the exterior of the house.
When this happens, the underlying structure becomes more vulnerable to water penetration and other elements. Check the condition of your siding after a windstorm to make certain it’s still intact.
Exposed Insulation or Water Stains
If the wind has lifted parts of your roof or walls, insulation could become visible in your attic or walls. Water stains, often caused by wind-driven rain, may also appear in areas like the attic, ceiling, or walls.
If you notice either of these signs, it’s important to get a professional assessment to take care of any potential moisture intrusion.
Get Help Assessing Wind Damage
If you spot any of these high wind signs, it’s important to contact professionals who can conduct a thorough structural assessment to evaluate the extent of the damage. At Stone Building Solutions, we specialize in detailed assessments, including building envelopes and roof inspections.
We also provide detailed scope of repairs/bid packages to help you through the repair process and insurance/damage claims. If you have any questions or concerns about wind damage to your property, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.