Depending on how strong it is, wind can cause some serious roof damage.  Combined with other weather conditions that often co-occur such as rainfall and hail, it can be devastating to a roofing system, sending shingles and other debris flying onto your property and leaving your home vulnerable to leaks and other problems.  The aftermath of wind and storm damage can be hard to deal with, especially given the urgent nature of this type of roof replacement or roof repair.

Texas Traditions Roofing, one of the top local residential and commercial roofing contractors, takes a closer look at how wind damage occurs.

The Physics of Wind

Wind tends to blow faster in open areas, only slowing down when there are obstructions around due to friction. Once it hits an object, uplift is generated, which is created by either two physical conditions—loss of laminar flow or an increase in wind speed.  Texans know our state is large and flat, making our homes especially susceptible to wind damage.

The laws of physics dictate that moving air tries to maintain contact with the surface. A bend or curve in the surface, however, disrupts the laminar flow. This creates a vacuum in the space near the bend or curve. The stronger the vacuum is, the more likely an object can be lifted up into it.

Increased wind speed, meanwhile, lowers air pressure, which then increases the amount of uplift. Say the wind is moving at 10 miles per hour toward a residential structure. Not only does the moving air lose its laminar flow, but the speed increases once it reaches the top of the roof.

Wind damage occurs in certain portions of the roof where the wind loses laminar flow. Laminar flow refers to the smooth passage of air over a surface, and it can be disrupted if parts of the surface have imperfections such as uplifted or missing shingles. On a roof, some affected parts could include upwind eave edges, rakes, and corners, as well as the downside side of ridges. Our roof repair pros pay close attention to these areas whenever we perform post-storm inspections.

Shingles that have been blown off the roof underlayment are considered direct wind damage. However, it can also be indirect in nature, where the roof sustains punctures due to debris and other projectiles carried by the wind.

Protecting Your Investment

Before strong winds can cause potential destruction on your roof, be sure to protect it with the help of the pros from Texas Tradition Roofing. We perform routine maintenance to ensure your roof’s performance, giving you peace of mind knowing that it can withstand the elements.

Turn to us for your roof replacement, repair and restoration needs. Call (512) 942-0427 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate. We serve residents of Round Rock, TX.