High winds are common throughout the St. Louis area, especially during spring and summer storm season. While hail often gets the most attention, strong wind alone can loosen shingles, damage flashing, and create hidden problems that may not be noticeable from the ground.
Many homeowners assume their roof is fine if they don’t see shingles in the yard. Unfortunately, wind damage isn’t always obvious. Small issues can allow water to enter your roofing system over time, leading to leaks, mold, or expensive structural repairs.
If your neighborhood recently experienced strong winds, here’s what you should check before the next storm arrives.
High winds are common throughout the St. Louis area, especially during spring and summer storm season. While hail often gets the most attention, strong wind alone can loosen shingles, damage flashing, and create hidden problems that may not be noticeable from the ground.
Many homeowners assume their roof is fine if they don’t see shingles in the yard. Unfortunately, wind damage isn’t always obvious. Small issues can allow water to enter your roofing system over time, leading to leaks, mold, or expensive structural repairs.
If your neighborhood recently experienced strong winds, here’s what you should check before the next storm arrives.
Why High Winds Are a Concern in St. Louis
St. Louis regularly experiences severe thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts well over 50 mph. Even a roof that appears to be in good condition can suffer damage from repeated exposure to high winds.
Older shingles become brittle with age, while flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights may loosen over time. Once these components are compromised, future rainstorms can quickly turn minor damage into a roof leak.
That’s why local homeowners should inspect their property after significant wind events rather than waiting for water stains to appear inside the home.
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1
Look for Missing or Lifted Shingles
One of the first signs of wind damage is missing or lifted shingles.
Walk around your property and look for:
- Bare spots on the roof
- Curled shingle edges
- Lifted tabs
- Shingles lying in your yard
- Different-colored patches where shingles have blown away
Even if only one or two shingles are affected, exposed underlayment can quickly deteriorate when exposed to rain and sunlight.
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2
Check Gutters and Downspouts
Your gutters often reveal roofing problems before the roof itself.
Watch for:
- Asphalt granules collecting in gutters
- Bent gutter sections
- Loose fasteners
- Detached downspouts
- Overflow caused by debris
Granule loss may indicate aging shingles that have become more vulnerable to wind damage.
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3
Inspect Flashing Around Roof Penetrations
Flashing protects some of the most vulnerable areas of your roof, including:
- Chimneys
- Plumbing vents
- Skylights
- Roof valleys
- Wall intersections
Strong winds can loosen flashing or pull sealants away, allowing moisture to enter even when the shingles appear undamaged.
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4
Look Inside Your Attic
Not all roof damage is visible from outside.
After a storm, check your attic for:
- Water stains
- Damp insulation
- Sunlight coming through the roof deck
- Musty odors
- Mold growth
Finding these signs early can prevent much more expensive repairs later.
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5
Examine Trees Around Your Home
Large tree branches don't always fall directly onto a roof.
Branches rubbing against shingles during high winds can scrape away protective granules and shorten the life of your roofing system.
Trim overhanging limbs whenever possible to reduce future storm damage.
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6
Don't Ignore Small Warning Signs
Many roofing problems begin with minor damage.
A lifted shingle today could become a missing section after the next storm. A small flashing gap may eventually lead to an interior leak.
Addressing these issues early is almost always more affordable than waiting until widespread damage develops.
When Should You Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection?
Even if everything appears normal from the ground, hidden wind damage is common after severe weather.
A professional roof inspection can identify loose shingles, damaged flashing, ventilation issues, and other problems that homeowners often can’t safely see themselves.
Having your roof inspected after a major wind event gives you peace of mind and allows small repairs to be completed before they become larger, more expensive problems.
When Wind Damage Requires Storm Damage Repair
Not every roof needs replacement after high winds, but damaged roofing materials should never be ignored.
Prompt storm damage repair can help restore your roof’s integrity, prevent water intrusion, and reduce the risk of additional damage during the next storm. Addressing repairs early is often less disruptive and more cost-effective than waiting until leaks develop.
What If the Damage Is Severe?
If high winds have torn away large sections of shingles, exposed the roof deck, or caused active leaks, don’t wait for the next rainfall.
In these situations, emergency roofing services can help protect your home with temporary measures while a permanent repair plan is put in place. Acting quickly can minimize interior water damage and help preserve the overall condition of your home.
Protect Your Roof Before the Next Missouri Storm
High winds can leave behind damage that isn’t always visible from the ground. Taking the time to inspect your property after severe weather—and scheduling a professional evaluation when needed—can help prevent small issues from becoming costly repairs.
At Horizon Roofing & Exteriors, we help homeowners across St. Louis and St. Charles County protect their homes from Missouri’s unpredictable weather. Whether you need a roof inspection, storm damage repair, or emergency roofing services, our experienced team is ready to provide honest guidance and quality workmanship.
If your home has recently been affected by strong winds, don’t wait until the next storm causes further damage. Contact Horizon Roofing & Exteriors today to schedule your free roof inspection and learn more about our Storm Damage Roof Protection Missouri solutions designed to help keep your home protected year-round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some signs of wind damage include missing or lifted shingles, damaged flashing, loose gutters, granules collecting in gutters, and debris on your roof. However, not all damage is visible from the ground, so a professional roof inspection is recommended after severe winds.
Yes. High winds can loosen shingles and damage roofing components without causing immediate leaks. Scheduling a roof inspection after a major windstorm can help identify hidden damage before it becomes a costly repair.
Yes. Wind can lift shingles enough to break their seal, loosen flashing, or weaken roofing materials without blowing shingles completely off the roof. This type of hidden damage may lead to leaks during the next heavy rain.
In many cases, homeowners insurance covers sudden wind damage caused by covered storms. Coverage depends on your policy and the extent of the damage. It’s a good idea to have your roof professionally inspected before filing an insurance claim.
If you notice missing shingles, avoid climbing onto the roof yourself. Take photos from the ground if it’s safe, and contact a qualified roofing contractor to inspect the damage. Prompt repairs can help prevent water intrusion and additional damage.
Emergency roofing services may be needed if high winds have caused major roof damage, active leaks, fallen tree impacts, or exposed roof decking. Temporary protection can help reduce further damage until permanent repairs are completed.
St. Louis experiences strong thunderstorms throughout the year, especially during spring and summer. Wind damage is one of the most common reasons homeowners schedule roof inspections and repairs after severe weather.
Yes. Wind damage isn’t always obvious. Lifted shingles, damaged flashing, or weakened seals may not be visible from the ground but can still allow water to enter the roofing system over time. A professional inspection is the best way to identify hidden issues.
Brian Donohue
Brian Donohue is the owner of Horizon Roofing & Exteriors, the leading roofing company in St. Peters, Missouri, dedicated to delivering quality roofing solutions. With a strong background in project management, sales, and customer service, Brian has built a reputation for reliability and excellence in the roofing and construction industry.