WIND STORM!
The Colorado Front Range experienced a severe windstorm this April 17th of 2018! Areas such as Louisville, Broomfield, Thornton, Boulder, and Brighton saw the most significant damage. Unlike hail damage, wind damage is easy to see. The extent of the damage is often not as clear as some may think though.
One thing that homeowners should know is what type of shingle they have on their home. Some shingles, such as T-Locks, are no longer made which means there is nothing to repair them with if damaged. In the case of the T-Lock shingle, the entire roof must be replaced. With other roofs, such as 3-tab shingles and architectural shingles, these can often be repaired without replacing the entire roof.
What Looks Like an Easy Repair Can Lead to a New Roof - From Your Insurance Company
Homeowners will often see a couple of shingles missing and think it is an easy repair, and generally, that would be correct. However, some shingles become brittle as they age. In order to repair the missing shingle, the roofer must lift the shingle above it, and when the shingles above are too brittle the roof becomes impossible to repair because of breakage. Insurance adjusters who are inspecting your roof should always do a "brittle test" to see if a roof is repairable or not.
Another thing to keep in mind, each city within Colorado has their own building code related to roofing. Some municipalities require a permit for repairs larger than 100 square feet, which means that a small repair may require a permit; and a permit may require that the entire roofing system is brought up to code.
Most insured clients have a code endorsement on their policy, which forces the insurance carrier to pay the proper amount to get the damaged system up to local code standards. This means that in some situations one missing shingle on a brittle roof could actually lead to full roof replacement!
The wind is a strong force of nature. According to roofing experts, high and strong winds are capable of causing minor up to severe property damages. The strength can vary as it is possible to blow up an entire roof deck. In some cases, they aren't too destructive (and we're hoping that this is true for everyone).
If you have just experienced a terrible beating from strong winds, don't underestimate the effect. Immediately look for possible signs leading to wind damage. The more you ignore these warning signs, the more you expose yourself to potential dangers.
Here are the things you should watch out for:
Important reminder: The smartest move is to always consult a roofing specialist. Don't attempt to climb up your roof on your own. If you aren't sure about the damages that your property has sustained, schedule an inspection right away.
Related: 3 Types of Storm Damage Contractors
So, how does a homeowner know what strategy to take when they find that their shingles have been damaged by high winds? Call a pro!
A veteran roofer and claims specialist can offer advice on the process. They should inform the homeowner of the damage if it's repairable or not, and a cost to doing the repairs. If the cost exceeds the homeowners deductible, then a claim may be the best strategy.
A good roofer should also have tarps close by, at all times. When high winds hit, it's important to cover the damaged areas to prevent further damage. Insurance companies appreciate you protecting your investment, and suggest getting your property covered with a tarp ASAP. Your Insurance company will add this tarping fee to the claim so that you may be reimbursed for the out of pocket fee.
Looking for highly experienced and exceptionally-trained Denver CO roofing companies to solve your problems? Work with us and consider the job done!
Roper Roofing handles wind damage, tarps, claims, hail damage, and more. We offer full exterior restoration to the entire Colorado front range. Should you have wind damage from this recent storm or any others, please give us a call or send us a message here! Our inspections are free and our pros are ready to help you with the best strategy for your repairs.
Roper Roofing is by your side every step of the way. Contact us today for your wind damage or emergency tarping needs!
