By: Boxer Exteriors • May 15, 2025 • 12 min. read
Wind damage poses a serious threat to roofs, causing billions in property losses annually in the Chicagoland area. Discover the warning signs of wind damage on roofs and how to safeguard your home in this comprehensive guide.
Table of Contents
- 1. How Wind Can Cause Damage to Your Home
- 2. Wind Speed and Potential Damage
- 3. Identifying Wind Damage to Your Roof
- 4. Repairing and Protecting Your Roof from Wind Damage
- 5. Wind Damage and Insurance Coverage
- 6. Conclusion
- 7. Our Advice on Roof Wind Damage in Chicagoland in 2025
Storms, particularly those with high winds, can cause significant damage to homes and properties across the United States. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), weather events have caused an average of $15 billion in property damage annually over the past decade. A substantial portion of this damage is attributed to roof damage caused by strong winds.
Identifying and addressing wind damage to roofs is crucial for homeowners to protect their properties and prevent further damage. Wind can cause structural damage to homes, particularly to roofs, by loosening or dislodging shingles, exposing the underlying layers to the elements. Falling objects and debris carried by the wind can also impact roofs, causing damage that may not be immediately apparent.
Roofs are particularly susceptible to wind damage in the Chicagoland area because high winds do not hit roofs uniformly. Instead, wind can target loose or vulnerable areas of the roof, such as the edges or corners, and cause shingles to lift, curl, or even break away entirely. This uneven distribution of wind force can lead to significant damage that may compromise the integrity of the entire roofing system.
There are two primary ways in which wind can damage a roof: through wind intensity and debris impact. Wind intensity refers to the speed and force of the wind itself, which can cause direct damage to roofing materials. In contrast, debris damage occurs when objects carried by the wind, such as tree branches or outdoor furniture, strike the roof and cause damage.
How Wind Can Cause Damage to Your Home
Wind can cause significant structural damage to Illinois’ homes, particularly to roofs. High winds can loosen or dislodge shingles, leaving the underlying layers of the roof exposed to the elements. This exposure can lead to leaks, water damage, and even mold growth if left unaddressed. Falling objects and debris carried by the wind can also impact roofs, causing damage that may not be immediately visible but can compromise the roof’s integrity over time. In addition to roof damage, wind can also affect other exterior elements of your home. For tips on maintaining and updating your home’s exterior, check out our guide on Refresh Your Home’s Exterior with a Vinyl Siding Paint Job: Boxer Exteriors Shows You How.
Roofs are especially susceptible to wind damage because high winds do not hit roofs uniformly. Instead, wind tends to target loose or vulnerable areas of the roof, such as the edges, corners, or areas where the roofing material has already begun to deteriorate. This uneven distribution of wind force can cause shingles to lift, curl, or break away entirely, leaving the roof more vulnerable to further damage.
There are two primary ways in which wind can damage a roof: through wind intensity and debris impact. Wind intensity refers to the speed and force of the wind itself, which can cause direct damage to roofing materials. Strong winds can cause asphalt shingles to bend, crack, or even tear away from the roof decking. In some cases, high winds can also cause the roof decking itself to become damaged or dislodged.
Debris damage, on the other hand, occurs when objects carried by the wind strike the roof and cause damage. During a severe storm, wind can carry branches, outdoor furniture, or even larger objects like trees or telephone poles, which can cause significant damage when they impact a roof. This type of damage may not be immediately apparent, as it can occur on the underside of the roofing material or in areas that are not easily visible from the ground.
Homeowners in Chicagoland need to be aware of the potential for wind damage to their roofs and take proactive steps to mitigate the risk. Regular roof maintenance, including inspections and repairs, can help identify and address potential issues before they become more serious problems. Working with a trusted roofing contractor, like Boxer Exteriors, can also provide homeowners with expert guidance and support in protecting their roofs from wind damage.
Wind Speed and Potential Damage
The severity of wind damage to roofs and homes is directly related to the speed and intensity of the wind. Different levels of wind speed can cause varying degrees of damage in Chicagoland, ranging from minor landscaping damage to significant structural damage.
At lower wind speeds, between 0 and 50 miles per hour (mph), damage is typically limited to landscaping, such as broken tree branches or damaged shrubbery. As wind speeds increase, however, the potential for damage to homes and roofs also increases. Winds between 50 and 75 mph can cause minor structural damage, such as loose or missing shingles, damaged gutters, or small leaks.
When wind speeds exceed 75 mph, the risk of significant structural damage increases dramatically. High winds in this range can cause more severe roof damage, such as large sections of missing shingles, exposed roof decking, or even complete roof failure in extreme cases. Wind speeds above 100 mph, which are common in severe storms like hurricanes or tornadoes, can cause catastrophic damage to homes and roofs, often requiring extensive repairs or complete roof replacements.
Certain areas in the United States are more prone to wind damage than others, based on their geographic location and the types of storms they typically experience. According to NOAA data, the top ten states most frequently hit by severe storms and high winds include Texas, Kansas, Florida, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Illinois, Colorado, Missouri, Iowa, and Mississippi. Homeowners in these states should be particularly vigilant about monitoring their roofs for signs of wind damage and taking proactive steps to protect their properties.
At Boxer Exteriors, we understand the unique challenges homeowners in the Chicagoland area face with wind damage. As a trusted roofing contractor, we provide expert guidance, thorough inspections, and quality repairs to help protect homes from the damaging effects of high winds.
Our team of experienced roofing professionals can help homeowners identify signs of wind damage, such as missing or loose shingles, leaks, or structural issues, and recommend the most appropriate course of action to address these problems. Whether it’s a minor repair or a complete roof replacement, Boxer Exteriors has the knowledge, skills, and dedication to ensure that our clients’ homes are protected from the elements and maintain their value over time.
Identifying Wind Damage to Your Roof
Homeowners in Chicagoland should recognise the common signs of wind damage on their roofs to address issues promptly and prevent further damage. Wind damage may not always be obvious from street level, making it essential to schedule a free roof inspection by a professional roofer.
One of the most common signs of wind damage is loose, missing, or damaged shingles. High winds can cause shingles to lift, curl, or even tear away from the roof decking, leaving the underlying layers exposed to the elements. Curling, peeling, or buckling shingles are also indicative of wind damage, as they can no longer provide adequate protection for the roof.
Granule loss is another sign of wind damage, as the protective granules on asphalt shingles can be dislodged by strong winds. This loss of granules can accelerate the aging process of the shingles and make them more susceptible to further damage.
Wind can also cause damage to other roof components, such as soffits, fascia, and flashing. Damaged or missing soffit or fascia can allow water and pests to enter the attic space, while damaged flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights can lead to leaks and water damage.
Homeowners in the Chicagoland area should also be on the lookout for signs of wind damage inside their homes, such as leaks and water stains on ceilings or walls. These issues can indicate that wind has compromised the roof’s integrity, allowing water to penetrate the home’s interior.
A sagging roof is another potential sign of wind damage, as it may indicate that the roof decking or structure has been weakened by the force of the wind. Debris on the roof, such as branches or other objects, can also be a sign that the roof has been impacted by strong winds.
To identify wind damage and assess the condition of your roof, it is crucial to schedule a free roof inspection with a trusted roofing contractor like Boxer Exteriors. Our team of experienced professionals will conduct a thorough examination of your roof, identifying any signs of wind damage and recommending the best course of action to address these issues.
At Boxer Exteriors, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service to homeowners in the Chicagoland area. With our commitment to professionalism and quality, you can trust our team to accurately assess the condition of your roof and provide expert guidance on necessary repairs or replacements.
Don’t wait until wind damage leads to more serious problems; contact Boxer Exteriors today to schedule your free roof inspection and take the first step in protecting your home from the elements.
Repairing and Protecting Your Roof from Wind Damage
When wind damage is identified on a roof, it is essential to take prompt action to repair the damage and prevent further issues. The good news is that wind damage to roofs can often be repaired, depending on the extent of the damage. The scope of the repair will be determined by a professional roofer after a thorough inspection of the roof.
If you suspect that your roof has sustained wind damage, there are several steps you should take. First, contact a professional roofing contractor, like Boxer Exteriors, to schedule an inspection. Our experienced team will assess the damage and provide you with a detailed report and recommendation for repairs. It’s also worth noting that wind damage can affect other parts of your home’s exterior. For comprehensive protection, consider our Siding Installation Services to ensure your entire home is well-protected against the elements.
Next, document the damage yourself by taking photos and notes. This information can be valuable when filing an insurance claim to cover the cost of repairs. Be sure to contact your insurance provider promptly to initiate the claim process.
Once the insurance claim is filed, schedule the necessary roof repairs with your chosen Chicagoland roofing contractor. At Boxer Exteriors, we work closely with homeowners and insurance companies to ensure that the repair process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
To protect your roof from future wind damage, it is important to consider the best roofing materials for your home. Roofs that are well-equipped to withstand high winds typically have strong decking, high-quality fasteners, and excellent craftsmanship. Metal roofing is a popular choice for homes in areas prone to high winds, as it can withstand wind speeds over 150 mph.
Homeowners in Chicagoland can also take proactive steps to protect their roofs from wind damage. Regular roof maintenance, including inspections and minor repairs, can help identify and address potential issues before they become more serious problems. Trimming trees near the roof can reduce the risk of falling branches causing damage during strong winds. Additionally, moving outdoor furniture and other objects indoors during storms can prevent them from being blown onto the roof and causing damage.
Wind Damage and Insurance Coverage
When a roof sustains wind damage, homeowners in the Chicagoland area may wonder if their insurance policy will cover the cost of repairs or replacement. It is essential to review your homeowners insurance policy to determine if wind damage is covered and to what extent. Many policies do include coverage for wind damage, but the specifics can vary depending on the insurer and the type of policy.
If you suspect that your roof has suffered wind damage, it is crucial to contact a professional roofing company, like Boxer Exteriors, to assess the damage and provide guidance on the next steps. A reputable roofing contractor can help you navigate the insurance claim process by providing a detailed inspection report and documentation of the damage. For acomprehensive assistance with wind and other storm-related damages, our Storm Damage Restoration service can help you recover quickly and efficiently.
At Boxer Exteriors, we offer free roof inspections to homeowners in the Chicagoland area. Our experienced team will thoroughly examine your roof, identify any wind damage, and provide a comprehensive assessment of the condition of your roof. This information can be invaluable when filing an insurance claim, as it provides clear evidence of the damage and the necessary repairs.
To ensure the most accurate assessment of wind damage, Boxer Exteriors utilizes state-of-the-art drone technology for roof inspections. Drone inspections allow our team to safely and efficiently examine every aspect of your roof, including hard-to-reach areas like soffits and fascia. This technology provides high-resolution images and video footage that can be used to document damage and support insurance claims.
The benefits of professional roof inspections and consultations extend beyond the insurance claim process. By identifying wind damage early and addressing it promptly, homeowners can prevent further damage to their homes, such as leaks, water stains, and even structural issues. A trusted roofing contractor in Chicagoland, like Boxer Exteriors, can provide expert advice on the best course of action, whether it involves repairs or a full roof replacement.
In conclusion, being aware of the signs of wind damage to your roof and taking prompt action to address any issues is crucial for protecting your home and ensuring its longevity. Homeowners should review their insurance policies to understand their coverage for wind damage and work with a professional roofing company to assess the damage and navigate the insurance claim process.
At Boxer Exteriors, we are committed to providing exceptional service and expertise to homeowners in Chicagoland. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to helping you protect your home from the damaging effects of wind and other weather-related issues. Contact us today to schedule your free roof inspection and consultation and take the first step in safeguarding your home and your peace of mind.
Conclusion
Recognizing and addressing signs of wind damage to your roof is not only about maintaining the aesthetic value of your home but also about safeguarding the structural integrity that protects you and your family. The key points to remember include:
- Be vigilant for signs of damage such as loose or missing shingles, leaks, or granule loss.
- Understand the coverage details of your insurance policy regarding wind damage.
- Regular inspections and prompt repairs are crucial to extend the life of your roof and prevent further damage.
We encourage homeowners in Wheaton, IL, and surrounding areas to contact Boxer Exteriors for a free consultation on roof repair needs. Our professional team is ready to provide expert service and advice, ensuring your roof can withstand the challenges posed by high winds and other severe weather conditions. Protecting your home starts with a strong, well-maintained roof—don’t wait for the next storm to ensure yours is up to the task.
Our Advice on Roof Wind Damage in Chicagoland in 2025
How common are damaging winds and tornadoes in Illinois?
Damaging winds and tornadoes are relatively frequent in Illinois, ranking it among the top states in the U.S. for severe weather incidents. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Illinois experiences a high volume of storms that can produce severe wind events capable of causing significant property damage. These weather conditions often lead to tornado occurrences as well, especially during peak tornado seasons. Homeowners in the area are advised to be proactive in maintaining and inspecting their roofs to mitigate potential damages from these natural events.
What are the specific wind speeds that can cause damage to roofs?
Wind speeds as low as 50 to 75 miles per hour can begin to cause minor structural damage to roofs, such as loosening or removing shingles and damaging gutters. As the wind speed increases beyond 75 mph, the risk of significant structural damage escalates rapidly, leading to extensive damage like large sections of missing shingles and exposed roof decking. Wind speeds exceeding 100 mph, typical in severe weather conditions like hurricanes or tornadoes, often result in catastrophic damage, necessitating extensive repairs or even complete roof replacements.
How does wind damage typically start on a roof?
Wind damage to roofs typically begins when high winds target vulnerable areas such as the edges, corners, or any sections where roofing materials may have already begun to deteriorate. This leads to shingles lifting, curling, or breaking away entirely. The damage can escalate as the wind’s force unevenly distributes across the roof, potentially dislodging or damaging more shingles and exposing the underlying layers. These exposed areas are then more susceptible to water ingress and further degradation from ongoing wind exposure and other weather elements.
How should homeowners assess roof damage after a storm?
After a storm, homeowners should first visually assess their roof for signs of wind damage, such as missing or damaged shingles, granule loss, or debris accumulation. Checking inside the home for leaks or water stains on ceilings and walls is also crucial as these can indicate compromised roof integrity. For a comprehensive evaluation, scheduling a professional roof inspection is advisable. A certified roofer can safely identify subtle damages and provide a detailed assessment, ensuring that all issues are addressed promptly to prevent further damage and costly repairs.
When should a homeowner consider replacing a roof rather than repairing it?
A homeowner should consider replacing a roof rather than repairing it if there is extensive damage, such as large areas of missing shingles, significant structural compromise like a sagging roof deck, or if the roof is nearing the end of its expected lifespan and continues to require frequent repairs. Replacement is also advisable if the cost of repairs approaches or exceeds the cost of a new roof, providing a more cost-effective and long-term solution to ongoing weather-related damages.
