Storm damage

12/18/2020 (Permalink)

Windstorms can cause damage to your home.  The storms can last for a few minutes or they may last for a few hours and even several days when they come from large weather systems.  Wind speeds during a windstorm typically exceed 35 miles per hour. When cold fronts pass over mountains, cold air accelerates even more as it moves downslope.  Blizzards can occur when the windstorms pass over snow covered ground. 

The causes of longer periods of windstorms are large differences in atmospheric pressure across a region and the jet stream winds overhead.  Windstorms can also create dust storms and sandstorms in dry areas. Tornadoes and cyclones also produce wind damage however they are usually classified separately because the wind speeds are much higher. 

The most common damage caused by windstorms are:

•         Roof damage
•         Fallen trees
•         Down power lines

It is important to keep your insurance up to date, just in case you need to make a claim, be sure to take photos of the damage that the windstorm causes to your home.  It may or may not be covered.  Insurance does not cover gradual damage, so it is important to upkeep your property.  After a windstorm it is suggested to check the roof for loose shingles or spots of missing asphalt as the wind tends to cause damage to the edges of the roof first, causing a chain reaction.  If the roof is old or you suspect it’s got issues you should have it checked as it could cause the roof to leak or rot due to water exposure.