Storms are a natural phenomenon that can cause massive destruction, particularly when they hit residential areas. One of the most common ways storms can wreak havoc is by damaging roofs. Roofs are one of the most critical components of any structure, as they protect the building and its occupants from the elements. However, when a severe storm hits, the force of the winds, rain, hail, and other weather elements can cause significant damage to rooftops. This damage is what we at Xpert Xterior would like to discuss; how storms can impact your roof.
Strong Winds
One of the main ways that storms damage rooftops is by strong winds. Strong winds can be powerful enough to lift shingles or even the entire roof off a house. As the winds pick up speed, they create a vacuum that sucks air and anything that is not bolted down, such as loose shingles, roofing tiles, or debris, from the roof. The pressure from the winds can also cause the roof to warp or bow, which can further damage the structure.
Hailstones
Another way that storms can destroy rooftops is through hail. Hailstones are small, solid balls of ice that can vary in size from small pebbles to golf balls or larger. When hailstones hit a roof, they can cause significant damage. Depending on the size and speed of the hailstones, they can crack or break shingles or tiles. The impact can also dent or puncture metal roofs or damage the flashing that connects the roof to the rest of the structure. Hailstones can also weaken the roof’s structure, making it more susceptible to further damage from other weather elements.
Heavy Rain
Rain is another weather element that can damage roofs during a storm. Heavy rain can cause water to pool on the roof, which can increase the weight load on the structure. This can cause the roof to sag or even collapse in severe cases. Water can also penetrate small cracks or holes in the roof, leading to leaks that can cause water damage to the inside of the building.
Water damage can weaken the roof structure over time, making it more susceptible to further damage from future storms.
Lightning Strikes
Lightning strikes during a storm can cause significant damage to rooftops. When lightning hits a roof, it can create a hole or a puncture, which can cause leaks and water damage. The heat generated by the lightning strike can also damage the roof’s structural integrity, making it more susceptible to further damage from other weather elements.
Roofing Installation, Repair, Replacement & More in Upper Darby, Haverford, Chester, Ridley, Radnor, Drexel Hill, Lower Merion, Cheltenham, Abington, Deptford, Gloucester and Philadelphia, PA as well as Camden and Cherry Hill, NJ & Surrounding Areas
Generally, storms can cause significant damage to rooftops in several ways. Strong winds can lift shingles or even the entire roof off a house, hailstones can crack or break shingles or tiles, heavy rain can cause water to pool on the roof, leading to leaks and structural damage, and lightning strikes can puncture the roof and damage its structural integrity. Therefore, it is important for homeowners to take precautions to protect their roofs before and after a storm, such as ensuring the roof is properly maintained, repairing any damage promptly, and installing protective measures like hurricane straps or hail-resistant shingles. When your roof sustains damage, no matter if it was storm damage or other causes, the experts of Xpert Xterior can help you with quality repairs. Call us today!