What Causes Roof Leaks After a Windstorm?

Strong wind gusts can get underneath the edges of asphalt shingles, breaking the adhesive seal that holds them down. Once a shingle is lifted, it exposes the underlayment and roof deck to the elements. Subsequent winds can tear the shingle off completely, creating a direct opening for water. This damage often starts at the roof edges or ridges, which are most exposed.

If shingles are old or previously compromised, they are more likely to fail in a windstorm. The force can also cause granules to wear off, reducing the shingle's lifespan and waterproofing ability. After a storm, you might see missing shingles or notice curled or flapping edges. Water can then seep under the surrounding intact shingles, leading to a larger leak area.

Windstorms turn loose branches, patio furniture, and other objects into projectiles. A branch striking your roof can puncture asphalt shingles, crack clay tiles, or put a hole through wood shakes. The damage might be a small puncture that is hard to spot from the ground but allows significant water infiltration. Even if the debris doesn't penetrate, it can scrape off protective granules.

Gutters and downspouts clogged with debris can also cause problems. When wind blows leaves and twigs into gutters, they block water flow. During rain, water backs up under the roof edge's drip edge or shingles. This wind-driven water intrusion can rot fascia boards and soffits, leading to leaks that appear to come from the roof but start at the gutter line.

• Tree limbs breaking and falling onto the roof surface.
• Loose gravel from neighboring roofs acting as abrasives.
• Unsecured yard decor or construction materials becoming airborne.
• Broken satellite dishes or antennae damaging shingles on impact.
• Neighboring roof tiles or shingles blowing onto your property.

Your first step is to prevent further interior damage. Place buckets under active drips and move furniture and rugs away from the wet area. If safe to do so, you can tarp the suspected area on the roof as a temporary barrier. However, climbing onto a wet, damaged roof is dangerous, and it's often best to leave it to the pros.

Contact local water damage pros for a thorough assessment. They use moisture mapping to find the full extent of water intrusion in your attic, walls, and ceilings. They can also perform emergency water extraction and start structural drying to prevent mold. For permanent repair, a roofing professional will need to address the specific wind-caused damage to your shingles, flashing, or vents.

• Document all visible damage with photos for an insurance claim.
• Check your attic with a flashlight for wet insulation or drips.
• Look for water stains on ceilings or walls that grow after rain.
• Listen for dripping sounds in walls or ceilings after the storm.
• Feel for damp spots on the floor near exterior walls.