Asphalt Shingles and Storm Damage: What to Know

Do you have an asphalt shingle roof? Each type of roofing material will react differently to wild weather, so you’ll need to know what to expect for your roof. If you want to learn more about how rain, hail, and wind can affect your asphalt shingles, take a look at what you need to know about storm damage and roofs.



What Long Do Asphalt Shingle Roofs Typically Last?

Every roof serves the same primary purpose—to protect your home. But this doesn't mean that every roof is made from the same material. Asphalt is a popular roofing material that is affordable and durable. Three-tab asphalt shingles have an expected 20-year lifespan and architectural asphalt shingles can last for 30 years, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors.

Can the Elements Damage an Asphalt Shingle Roof?

Even though asphalt shingles are durable and can last for decades, it is possible to damage this roofing material. While the shingles will protect your home from an average rainstorm or small-sized hail, they are vulnerable to intense weather.

Strong winds can rip shingles off your roof or send branches and other projectiles into the structure. Missing shingles and punctures from flying objects significantly reduce the effectiveness of the roof and impact the exterior aesthetics of your home. Without a solid layer of shingles, water can enter the attic space or may even drip into the ceiling or walls of your home.

Along with wind damage, hail can also cause breaks or cracks in asphalt shingles. This can also lead to leaks inside of your home. If the hail isn't large or strong enough to tear through a shingle (or a few), it can still cause damage. The hail can dent or dimple the asphalt shingle's surface. This may not cause a leak, but it could leave behind dark marks and will affect the curb appeal of your home.

Can Rain Damage Your Asphalt Shingle Roof?

Rain without high winds or hail isn't likely to damage your asphalt shingle roof. Provided the roof is in good condition and well maintained, asphalt shingles should provide an effective barrier against the rain.

But if you do notice a leak after a storm, it's likely that your roof was already damaged, has recent damage, or has extensive wear. Any leak requires a professional inspection by a licensed roofing contractor—even if it's after what seems like mild rain.

What Should You Do After Storm Damage?

Whether the rain soaked through a worn part of your roof, hail left your shingles broken and dented, or the wind tore part of the roof off, you need to contact a professional. Roofing repairs are not DIY jobs.

Storm damage can take a significant toll on an asphalt shingle roof. In some cases, it's possible to replace a few shingles or an area of shingles. But major damage may require a full replacement or re-roofing service. A qualified contractor has the knowledge, skills, experience, and equipment to safely, efficiently, and effectively make the repairs or complete a replacement.

Never attempt to go onto your roof and assess the damage yourself. Instead, inspect your roof from the ground and look around your yard for asphalt shingle debris. It's tempting to go onto the roof to find the missing spots. But this poses a serious slip and fall risk—especially if the roof is still wet or has soft spots from the missing shingles. A professional can safely inspect the roof and can photograph damage for your insurance claim if necessary.

Did storm damage tear shingles off your roof, cause a leak, or chip some of the asphalt material? Do you want to learn more about the asphalt shingle roofing repair and replacement options available in your local area? Contact Alpha Roofing Services for more information.