Green Bay residents know Northern Wisconsin is no stranger to severe weather. All cheeseheads need to be aware of the dangers common weather events in Wisconsin can pose for the integrity of their roofs. Common Wisconsin storms to look out for include:
Winter in Green Bay can be harsh, with heavy snowfall and ice buildup on rooftops. The accumulated snow and ice put extra stress on roof structures and prevent proper water drainage. Old or poorly installed roofs are especially vulnerable to damage if homeowners don’t take care of accumulated snow and ice.
Hail may seem harmless, but even small hailstones can cause major roof damage. In Wisconsin, average-sized hail is usually about ⅛” or the size of a BB, but the state has had hail as large as a baseball. Hail of any size chips away at the protective coating on asphalt shingles and can dent or crack roofing materials, flashing, and gutters. Homeowners should inspect their roofs for any new dark spots or cracks following a hail storm.
Intense rain can easily overwhelm aging or already damaged roofs. Leaky, worn-out roofs are prone to major leaks during heavy rain, which can cause mold, rotting, and interior water damage. Look for discolored ceilings, sagging areas, or dripping indoor ceilings before the damage escalates into more costly repairs.
Powerful winds from severe thunderstorms or tornadoes in Wisconsin can lift or remove shingles and send debris crashing into roofs at high speeds. While shingles may not look visibly damaged after high winds, they are often loosened or weakened. Loose and missing shingles can immediately create leaks. Careful inspection is critical after heavy winds to identify any shingles requiring re-securing or replacement, even if the issues aren’t obvious.
Severe weather can wreak havoc on roofs, leading to both obvious and hidden issues. Even seemingly minor damage can quickly escalate, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. Recognizing signs of storm-related wear is crucial for preventing such problems. After inclement weather, it's important to be on the lookout for common types of roof damage caused by Green Bay storms:
Cracked, Torn, & Missing Shingles: Severe storms can damage shingles by cracking them into pieces, tearing their edges, or completely dislodging them. Any visible damage undermines the roof’s waterproofing and warrants prompt inspection and replacement to maintain full storm protection.
Dents & Impact Marks: Storms can dent metal roofs or leave black impact marks on asphalt from hail or debris. Though they may seem like mild issues, these marks can worsen over time and lead to larger problems if not inspected and repaired as needed.
Granule Loss: Storms can wear away the mineral granules on asphalt shingles, causing dark spots and patches where the underlying asphalt is exposed. Extensive granule loss seriously undermines the roof’s protection against rain, hail, and UV rays, even if the shingle structure remains intact.
Weakened Shingle Seals: Storms can deteriorate the sealant strips on asphalt shingles, causing them to detach and lift more easily in high winds. Any visible loose or movable shingles indicate seal failure and the need for urgent repairs to prevent further and more serious damage.
If a storm causes damage to your roof like cracked shingles, leaks, or other damage beyond your control, your insurance may help pay for repairs or replacement.
Turn to Overhead Solutions for high-quality roof repairs in Green Bay after storms. Our skilled technicians uphold the highest standards to go above and beyond expectations. We pledge to provide an unmatched service experience and outstanding results.
Don’t delay - have a storm-damaged roof inspected as soon as possible. Even if you only see minor surface damage, underlying issues could leave your roof vulnerable to leaks or further damage when the next storm hits.
A new, high-quality roof can typically withstand some surface damage before needing replacement. An older roof in poor condition has little tolerance to storm damage. Either way, storm damage expedites deterioration and shortens your roof’s lifespan. The only way to accurately assess if storm damage warrants total replacement is through a professional roof inspection.
As recently as 2015, Green Bay has seen baseball-sized hail. On average, however, hail in Wisconsin is about pea-sized.
The average insurance payout for a storm-damaged roof is about $12,000. Your actual claim reimbursement will depend on your specific policy and insurance provider. Factors like your deductible, coverage terms, and insurer’s claim practices impact the final payout amount.
