What Are the 4 Most Common Types of Roofing Damage and How Can You Spot and Prevent Them Early?

The four most common types of roofing damage are caused by wind, UV radiation, water infiltration, and hail impact and identifying these early can help prevent costly repairs. While major storms often come to mind, roofing issues can develop even on clear days. Knowing the signs and sources of damage equips homeowners to take action before small problems escalate into major structural concerns.

1. Wind Damage: How Uplift Forces and Shingle Loosening Compromise Roof Edges and Structural Integrity

High speed winds can hit your roof even on a clear day. Vertical surfaces are more prone to wind damage because they present greater resistance, akin to a speeding object hitting a wall head-on. When wind hits an exterior wall, it changes direction abruptly, creating an updraft that can lift the roof at the edges. When it hits the roofing surface, it can pull at shingle edges and tear them off if not properly fastened to the roof deck.

2. UV Damage: Why Granule Loss from Asphalt Shingles Leads to Faster Deterioration and Surface Weakening

Ever wondered why asphalt shingles are covered by granules? Their primary purpose is to protect the asphalt-soaked backing material (which serves as a water-resistant layer) from UV radiation. Bare asphalt, when exposed to the sun for too long, breaks down and can result in a fragile outer roofing layer. While it is normal for asphalt shingles to shed granules over time, watch out when it happens too fast, as it could lead to a premature roof replacement.

3. Water Damage: How Moisture Infiltration Triggers Mold, Rot, and Long-Term Roof Deck Warping

Water damage happens when moisture infiltrates areas that are out of sight, such as the roof deck and framing. Given that most roofing components are made of wood or derivatives of it, they are susceptible to rot, mold and warping when in prolonged contact with moisture. This is why it’s important to invest in quality roofing components like underlayment. When installed properly, they can save you from problems caused by moisture infiltration.

4. Hail Damage: How Hidden Punctures from Storms Can Cause Delayed Leaks and Expensive Repairs

When hailstones hit the rooftop, they create small indentations or punctures that can be hard to spot from the ground. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to check their roofs after a hailstorm and not have it inspected because it looks fine. But small punctures can get bigger with continued exposure to the elements, to the point where a leak can happen where it’s least expected. This is why roofs need to be inspected after any kind of storm. The cost of a roofing inspection and timely repairs can be a small thing compared to that of major repair work, or an unexpected replacement.

Have your roof inspected this season to prepare for the colder months ahead. Give our team at Lakes Country Roofing a call at (218) 770-5419, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.