Spring is a time of warmer temperatures, heavy rain and, frequently, some pretty strong winds.
And these winds can do significant damage to your home’s roofing installation if the right precautions aren’t taken. As roofs age, they lose their ability to protect the inside of the home from the elements — and after a winter of protecting your home from snow and ice, your roof’s shingles will be especially vulnerable to wind damage.
Want to make sure your roof won’t get carried away by the winds this spring? Be sure to take these three steps against wind damage to your roofing materials:
Be proactive about roof repair and replacement
It might seem obvious, but knowing when it’s time to have your roof repaired or shingles replaced is a huge step in preventing your shingles from blowing off in a gust of wind. Evidence of damage includes curled-up edges and missing or worn granulars on your shingles — if you see signs like these, it’s time to get a roofing repair. Additionally, if your roof needs replacing, it’s best to replace it entirely. By installing a new roof on top of your existing roof, you’re cutting down its lifespan by 20%!
Opt for shingles with a higher wind rating
If you live in a particularly windy area, it’s wise to invest in shingles with a high wind rating. The wind rating is the force of wind gust it would take to blow the shingle off your roof. For example, a shingle with a 110 mph wind rating will be able to withstand winds up to 110 mph. Research the average wind speeds of your geographic area throughout the year to determine which wind rating you’ll need.
Know when to have your roof repaired
Did you know that the weather during your roof repair or replacement can even affect its condition and lifespan? Ideally, you should be having your roof repaired during the summer, when temperatures are warmer. This is because warmer temperatures help the shingles’ tar strips properly seal themselves down, creating a strong bond. This will help them withstand the wind even better.
Have any other questions for us about roof replacement or repair? Feel free to ask by leaving a comment below.