Powerful storms are a common reality in Kansas. What’s surprising is that the wind is typically one of the most destructive factors. Angi claims that the cost of wind damage repair in Wichita ranges from $180-$17,600 per incident. Most of the time, your roof will take the brunt of the damage, leaving underlayment exposed or scattering torn shingles throughout your lawn. Dingers Roofing & Construction As a trusted roofer in Wichita Kansas, Dingers Roofing & Construction has provided these practical steps you can take to protect your home from wind damage.
Protecting Your Roof from High Winds
Get a Roof Inspection
One of the first and best ways to get ahead of possible wind damage is a roof inspection. Think of it like a check up at the doctor’s office. Roof inspections can uncover faulty or damaged shingles that could be torn off by a gust of wind. An inspection can also catch any weak areas in your roof. Additionally, keep an eye out for loose shingles and cracked flashing. These are often signs that your roof needs storm damage repairs.
Address Nearby Trees
Overhanging branches and weak trees are a danger to your home even without strong winds. However, they pose a greater threat when storms roll in. These weak branches and trees can snap off during violent winds or heavy rain, falling onto your roof and damaging shingles or puncturing the underlayment. This can cause major roof leaks. We recommend trimming and removing branches before storm season hits. Early spring, around March and April, is typically a good time to prune and remove any dead branches.
Secure or Remove Loose Items
When it comes to wind, loose items are some of the worst possible risks to your home. Your favorite patio chair can quickly become a speeding projectile capable of shattering your windows or cracking your siding. Make sure to store or anchor down your patio and deck furniture before storms or high winds hit. Items like flowerpots, trash cans and sports equipment should be brought inside or stored in a secure place.
Close Windows and Doors Tightly
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), damaging winds are those exceeding 50-60 mph. Ultimately the wind creates pockets of intensely high and low wind pressure in your home through window and door leaks. The stark differences in high and low pressure can eventually increase the risk of roof lifting.
To reduce your risk, consider using weatherstripping on windows and doors to prevent air leakage. And if you see any damaged doors or cracked windows, we recommend replacing them as soon as possible. FEMA, also suggests using heavy duty deadbolts, longer hinges on doors and high-impact, shatter resistant films on your windows for areas that experience high average winds.
Clean Out Your Gutters
Clogged gutters can be ripped off your home by strong winds, and the debris inside can become dangerous projectiles. Clean them regularly to prevent this and further wind damage. We suggest cleaning your gutters at least twice a year to protect your roof and home from wind damage.
Use Hail and Wind-Resistant Roofing Materials
Shingles
Investing in quality roofing materials and wind-resistant products is a great way to help protect your home. At the minimum, we recommend class 4 impact-resistant shingles. These specialty asphalt shingles are specifically designed with multiple layers of fiberglass to withstand wind speeds of up to 130 mph, according to Manufacturer CertainTeed. On top of that they last up to 50 years, protecting your home for decades.
Windows
Double pane windows are an excellent choice for Wichita homeowners. These windows typically use a two pane shatter-resistant structure. This means that the outer pane can break without shattering, keeping the inner pane and home safe from projectiles during high winds.
Siding Materials
Fiber cement siding is a popular choice for many Wichita homeowners who want to protect their homes from wind damage. This siding is made from a composite blend of cement and plant fibers. On average the siding lasts up to 50+ years and has and commonly has a class 4 impact resistant rating. This allows the siding to resist high winds without tearing off and leaving your home exposed.
Hire a Professional Roofing Company
Experienced roofing contractors are trained to spot subtle signs of storm damage as well as weaknesses in your home. Choosing a local roofer gives you the opportunity to tailor solutions and workmanship based on your climate’s needs. As a local roofing contractor, Dingers Roofing & Construction is familiar with storm damaged roofs in Wichita. Contact us today for a free roof inspection and we’ll help you prepare for whatever the Kansas weather throws at you.
