During storms with heavy winds, the wind may be so strong that it blows under the house or building, and the pressure causes the roof to lift up. This condition is called uplift, and in some cases, the uplift is so strong that the roof lifts off the building entirely. There have also been cases where the entire roof turns upside down and falls back down, and other times where the roof is blown off and ends up in the neighbor’s property. The guide below will help you identify weak locations and damage during a building inspection. 

Tips for 3 Types of Roofs

Asphalt Shingles 

Look for lifting or curling, damaged areas, loss of minerals, exposed roofing paper, and bent shingles.

Wood Shakes & Shingles 

Look for missing or uneven shingles and rotted, cracked, curling, or splitting shingles. 

Flat Roof

Signs of damage include discoloration, ponding, tears, holes, blistering, lifted or worn areas, and debris buildup—such as branches and leaves.

Common Roofing Problems Found During Building Inspections

• Roof shingles torn or blown completely off the roof exposes the roof and building to water damage.
• Lifted or corroded roof flashing exposes the roof to rain and wind.
• Leaking, corroded ,and improperly sloped gutters cause water ponding, clogs, plants growing in gutters, and excessive water dripping onto the building.

4 Tips From a Building Inspector

• Inspect your roof after heavy rain and winds.
• Install hurricane clips that connect the building’s foundation to the wall and the wall to the roof. This is known as the continuous load path.
• If your roof has sustained major damage, contact your insurance agent right away.
• Inspect your roof at least once a year and make sure to trim overhanging tree branches.

If you need a building inspection, contact the team at Construction Management Inspection in Honolulu, HI. Owner, Lance Luke has over 38 years of industry experience and will ensure all projects meet safety codes and standards. This expert team serves the entire state of Hawaii, Las Vegas, NV, Portland, OR, and the California cities of San Diego, San Francisco, and Los Angeles with quality construction management, inspections, building repair, and renovations and reconstructions. Send a message online or call (808) 422-2132 to schedule a free one-hour consultation or building inspection.