Can heavy rains damage your roof? The short answer to this burning question many homeowners have is "yes." Heavy rains can cause damage to a residential roof. However, the extended response to the types of heavy damage rain can do a little more complicated, as several things can happen when the skies turn dark and the wind starts to howl. That's why it's so important to take some precautions to protect your home from the weather.
According to the Insurance Information Institute, heavy rains can cause several problems for homeowners:
• Water can seep under roof shingles and into the roof deck, causing damage to the roof's structural integrity and leading to leaks.
• If an abundance of rain falls in a short time, the weight of the water can cause gutters, downspouts, and drains to back up, leading to flooding around the home.
• Rooftop vents and air intakes can become clogged with debris from falling leaves and tree branches, which can cause roof damage and indoor air quality problems.
To protect your home from the potentially damaging effects of heavy rains, the I.I.I. recommends taking the following steps:
• Maintain clean gutters that are free of debris so that water can flow freely off the roof.
• Ensure the downspouts are directed away from your home and discharge water at least five feet away.
• Keep trees and branches close to the house trimmed and pruned so they don't fall on the roof in a storm.
• Check your roof for potential signs of damage, such as missing or displaced shingles, and repair any damage before a storm hits.
• Install roof edge and gutter guards to keep leaves and other debris from collecting on the roof and in the gutters.
• Check your home's exterior for any cracks or leaks that could let water in, and seal them up.
While today's roofing systems can withstand a certain amount of inclement weather, they are not immune to damage from heavy rains. However, using the tips above, you can help minimize the chances of your roof getting damaged by rain or storms.
If, however, you notice obvious signs of roof damage, such as a leaking roof or water damage inside your home, you should work quickly to identify the source of the leak and take corrective action. Delaying repairs can only lead to more extensive and expensive damage down the road.
So, Can Heavy Rains Damage Your Roof?
Yes, absolutely. But with some simple precautions, you can help minimize the chances of this happening. First, if you do experience roof damage due to a storm, don't delay calling a roof repair professional to get it fixed as soon as possible.