Do You Need a Roof Inspection After a Windstorm? Here's What to Look For
In San Diego, we’re lucky to avoid the snow, ice, and hurricanes that hit other parts of the country. But we’re not immune to sudden gusty windstorms—especially during the winter months or when Santa Ana conditions pick up. While they may not seem like a big deal, high winds can quietly damage your roof in ways you won’t notice until months later—unless you check.
That’s why local homeowners often call a trusted roofing company San Diego residents rely on to inspect their roofs after heavy winds. Even if there are no visible leaks or fallen branches, your roof may have suffered small but serious damage you won’t see from the ground.
Wind Doesn’t Have to Be Extreme to Cause Problems
You might assume only hurricane-force winds can damage a roof, but that's not the case. Even gusts between 30–50 mph can lift shingles, crack tiles, bend flashing, or dislodge vents. Once wind compromises the outer layer, rain, humidity, or UV exposure will slowly make the problem worse.
The issue isn’t just about what blows off—it’s what gets loosened or torn underneath. One slightly lifted shingle can expose the underlayment, allowing water to seep in and rot the decking. And once the protective barrier is breached, leaks can appear weeks—or even months—after the storm.
Signs Your Roof Might Be Damaged After a Windstorm
You don’t need to be a roofer to spot potential trouble. After any strong wind event, walk around your property and look for the following: Shingles on the ground or caught in gutters
Exposed nails or missing ridge caps
Bent or flapping flashing around chimneys or roof edges
Tile pieces on the driveway or visible gaps on a tile roof
Gutter sections pulled away from the roofline
Debris buildup in roof valleys or near vents
Inside your home, check the attic and ceilings for new stains, dampness, or a musty smell. These can be early indicators of water intrusion.
Why a Professional Inspection Is Worth It
Even if nothing looks wrong from the ground, that doesn’t mean your roof came through unscathed. Wind damage can be subtle. A trained roofing technician knows where to look, how to spot hidden movement in roof layers, and whether deeper components like flashing or underlayment were compromised.
A professional inspection typically includes: A full walkable-surface check of your roof
Inspection of all penetrations (vents, chimneys, skylights)
Evaluation of shingles or tile integrity
Checking gutters, valleys, and drainage points
An attic inspection for hidden water damage or airflow issues
Many homeowners don’t realize that catching damage early can save
thousands in repair costs down the road. And most roofing company San Diego professionals will give you a written report that can be useful if you need to file an insurance claim.
Don’t Delay—Insurance Claims Have Time Limits
If your roof was damaged by wind, you may be entitled to coverage under your homeowner’s policy. But there’s a catch: most insurance companies require you to report damage within a specific window—sometimes as little as 30 days after the event.
The longer you wait, the harder it is to prove that the damage was storm-related. That’s why it’s smart to schedule an inspection promptly. A licensed roofing company can document the damage, estimate repair costs, and provide evidence that supports your claim if needed.
Avoid DIY assessments—insurance adjusters are more likely to accept reports from licensed professionals than from homeowners.
What If My Roof Looks Fine?
Even if you don't see anything wrong, a post-storm inspection gives you peace of mind. It can also establish a condition baseline. That way, if you notice issues later, you’ll know whether they predated the storm or not.
Plus, if your roof is aging, inspections can uncover weaknesses that should be addressed before the next storm hits. Some homeowners even use the opportunity to ask about upgrades, ventilation improvements, or adding solar.
Choose a Roofing Company That Knows San Diego Weather
San Diego’s unique blend of coastal, inland, and desert climates means roofs wear differently depending on location. A roofing company San Diego locals recommend will understand how local wind patterns, humidity, and salt air affect different roofing systems—and what to do about it.
They’ll also be familiar with permit requirements, local codes, and the best materials for long-term protection.
After the Wind Dies Down, Take Action
Your roof doesn’t have to fall apart for it to be damaged. Wind can loosen, lift, or tear critical components silently, setting the stage for bigger problems in the months ahead. Whether you see missing tiles or not, it’s worth getting a professional to take a closer look.
If you've recently experienced high winds, reach out to a reliable roofing company in San Diego for a full inspection. It’s a small step now that can prevent major expenses—and headaches—later.