The short answer
Look for missing shingles, tabs that are lifted, creased or torn, exposed nails or underlayment, and shingle pieces in your yard. Check from the ground or with binoculars, and photograph anything you find. Do not climb onto the roof. Call a local roofing pro if you see damage.
On this page
What wind damage looks like
The clearest sign is a missing shingle, which leaves a bare patch or a darker strip of exposed underlayment. Wind can also lift shingles and fold them back, leaving a horizontal crease across the tab.
Look for torn or curled edges, and for shingles that sit higher than their neighbors. Wind often hits the edges, ridges and corners of a roof first, so check those spots closely.
Check safely from the ground
You can learn a lot without a ladder. Walk around the house and look at each roof face. Binoculars help you see lifted tabs, exposed nails and bare spots from a safe distance.
Look around the yard and gutters for shingle pieces, and check for damage to flashing, vents and the ridge cap. Wet, windy or icy conditions make roofs dangerous, so never climb up to take a closer look.
Document damage for your claim
Take clear photos of every area that looks damaged, plus wide shots of each side of the house. Photograph shingle pieces in the yard, and note the date of the storm.
Keep your photos and any notes together. They help when you talk to your insurer, and they give a roofing pro a starting point. Read your policy and call your insurer before any permanent repair.
When to call a pro
Call a local roofing pro if you see missing or creased shingles, exposed underlayment or any sign of water inside, such as a ceiling stain. Exposed spots can leak in the next rain or snow.
Some wind damage is hard to see from the ground. A pro can check for lifted shingles with loose adhesive strips and look at the roof up close. If the roof is open to weather, ask about a temporary cover.
Want a local pro to take a look? Request a quote and add a photo. Quotes provided by our network of licensed, insured local contractors to get you top quality at a fair price.
Related service: Storm and hail damage in Rochester, MN. Browse the towns we cover or all roofing guides.
