The short answer
Assessing Wind Damage on Your Roof
Start by observing your roof from the ground with binoculars. Look for obvious shingles that are missing, curled, or lifted at the edges. More subtle signs include creases, cracks, or areas that look darker where the granular surface has worn away. Never climb onto a wet or steep roof yourself, as this is extremely dangerous and could cause more damage.
If you notice damage after a storm, check your attic with a flashlight for water stains, damp insulation, or daylight showing through the roof deck. Write down what you see and take clear photos from multiple angles. This documentation is crucial for discussing repairs with a roofer or for a potential insurance claim. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Making Temporary Repairs to Prevent Leaks
If you have a leak, immediate action can prevent major interior water damage. From inside your attic, you can place a bucket under the drip and move any stored items away. On a dry, calm day, you may be able to apply a roof repair patch or tarp from a ladder, but only if you can do so safely without stepping on the roof.
A proper temporary cover involves securing a waterproof tarp over the damaged section, extending it over the roof ridge. Weigh the tarp down with wooden battens, not just bricks or rocks, to prevent it from blowing away. This is a stopgap measure. In regions with frequent storms, temporary fixes can fail quickly, so plan for permanent repair.
The Process for Replacing Damaged Shingles
Replacing a shingle involves carefully lifting the tabs of the shingles above it to expose the nails. You then pull out the old nails holding the damaged shingle with a pry bar or hammer. Slide the new shingle into place, ensuring it aligns perfectly with the surrounding courses. Secure it with roofing nails and seal the nail heads with a dab of roofing cement.
For asphalt shingles, you must match the style and color as closely as possible, which may require leftover bundles from the original installation. If the underlayment or roof decking is soft, wet, or rotten, those materials must be replaced first. This often reveals a larger water damage issue that requires drying and repair before new shingles can be installed.
- Gather tools: flat pry bar, hammer, roofing nails, utility knife, roofing cement.
- Purchase matching shingles, preferably from the same manufacturer and color lot.
- Work on a dry, cool day when shingles are pliable, not brittle.
- Always wear proper footwear with good traction and use a secure, anchored ladder.
- Apply roofing cement under any lifted shingle edges before nailing them down.
- Seal all new nail heads with roofing cement to prevent future leaks.
When to Call a Professional Roofer
Extensive damage, a steep roof pitch, or signs of structural sagging are clear indicators you need a pro. If more than a few shingles are affected, or if the damage is near valleys, vents, or chimneys, the repair complexity increases significantly. A professional roofer has the safety equipment, experience, and materials to complete the job correctly and efficiently.
They can also perform a full inspection to find hidden damage you might miss. In Oklahoma City, getting a professional assessment after major spring storms is a wise precaution. A qualified roofer can provide a detailed scope of work, which is helpful for insurance purposes. Remember, improper repairs can void shingle warranties and lead to costly interior water damage.
Preventing Future Wind Damage
Proper installation is the best defense. Ensure shingles are nailed according to the manufacturer's specifications, typically with six nails per three-tab shingle. Shingles designed for high winds and appropriate adhesives can provide extra holding power. Regularly inspect and maintain roof flashings around penetrations like pipes and skylights, as these are common failure points during high winds.
Keep trees near your home properly trimmed to prevent branches from scraping or falling on the roof. After any major storm, make a visual ground-level check part of your routine. Addressing minor repairs promptly prevents small problems from becoming major leaks. Well-maintained roofing materials last longer and better protect your home from the elements.
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Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Can I just glue a lifted shingle back down?
Using roofing cement under a lifted shingle is a standard repair, but it must be done correctly. Simply gluing the surface is not enough. You must lift the shingle, apply cement to the sealant strip and nail area, then press and nail it securely. If the shingle is cracked or creased, replacement is necessary.
Will my homeowner's insurance cover shingle repair?
Coverage often depends on the cause and extent of damage. Sudden, accidental damage from a windstorm is frequently covered, while wear and tear is not. You must file a claim and pay your deductible. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Always document the damage with photos before making any repairs.
How long does a professional shingle repair take?
For a localized repair of a few shingles, the work can often be completed in a few hours, barring weather delays. The timeline extends if underlying roof decking needs replacement or if extensive water damage is found in the attic. The priority is a complete, watertight fix, not just speed.