Common Types of Roof Damage from Hurricanes

by Jennifer Johansen 06/21/2020

Hurricanes produce high winds and heavy rains that can take a serious toll on your roof. Although you can take steps to prevent damage, you can still end up with missing shingles or other problems that leave your home unprotected from the elements. These are some of the more common types of roof damage that these powerful storms can cause.

Loose or Missing Shingles & Flashing

A hurricane’s winds can pull flashing and shingles off of your roof or loosen them. Shingles keep your home interior safe from water damage, while flashing protects areas around chimneys and dormers from leaks. Hail during hurricanes can also cause damage to shingles and flashing.

Ridge Vent Damage

If your home has ridge vents, these can sustain damage during a hurricane. These vents are typically placed right at a roof’s peak, making them easy targets for strong winds. If your roof has ridge vent damage, rain can get into your attic during a hurricane.

Loose or Damaged Gutters

The gutters on your home help move rain during hurricanes away from the exterior, which lowers the risk of water damage. Windy conditions can loosen gutters or even tear them away from your home, while hail or debris blowing around can cause severe dents or other damage. Clogged gutters can overflow during rainy conditions during a hurricane, putting your home at risk of serious water damage.

Vents & Fans

Roof vents and attic fans are normally sealed to stop water from seeping into your home. During a hurricane, damage to these parts of your roof can occur from high winds and hail. This allows rain water to get into your home during these storms.

After a hurricane hits, it's important to have your roof inspected for damage. This helps ensure that you have repairs done promptly to prevent serious damage.

Home Repair

Roof Repair

Storm Damage

About the Author

Jennifer Johansen

Jennifer is passionate about the Real Estate business, and has been involved in related family businesses in construction, architectural millwork, and finance for 20 years. She and her husband relocated to Naples, from New York, 10 years ago, although her family has owned property on Marco Island since the 1980's. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Dual Master's Degree in Counseling and Education. She has acquired many necessary skills that are useful in Real Estate from being in the field of Counseling for many years. She holds the belief that building rapport is vital to helping her clients have a positive experience, while achieving their goals. She is very thorough and detail oriented, and has formed many close relationships with professionals in related fields, such as law, title insurance, home inspectors and other contractors. She aims to offer concierge- level service to her clients at every price point. When time permits, she enjoys spending time with family and friends. Having grown up on the South Shore of Long Island, and enjoying her summers on Fire Island, she loves any activity related to salt water, boating and the beach. Additional hobbies include gardening, art, and studying nutrition, wellness and naturopathy. She is knowledgeable about Naples and Marco Island Real Estate, in estate areas, golf/gated communities, and waterfront properties. She is a member of The Naples Board of Realtors and Marco Island Area Association of Realtors.