High winds can wreak havoc on your roof — sometimes in ways you can’t even see from the ground. But when it comes to getting your insurance to cover a roof replacement, the question becomes: how much wind damage is enough?
At Brown’s Roofing, we work with homeowners every week who are unsure whether wind damage on their roof qualifies for an insurance claim. Here’s what you need to know.
💨 What Kind of Wind Damage Do Insurers Look For?
Wind doesn’t have to rip your entire roof off to cause serious problems. In fact, many insurance claims are approved for localized or partial damage — as long as it affects the function of your roofing system.
Common types of wind damage include:
- Lifted shingles – Wind can break the sealant strip, loosening shingles and making them vulnerable to future storms.
- Creased or curled shingles – This indicates the shingle was bent back and forth by wind pressure.
- Missing shingles – Entire sections may blow off during high gusts.
- Torn ridge vents or flashing – Often overlooked, but critical for water resistance.
- Debris impact – Windblown branches can cause punctures or dislodge shingles.
While this may seem minor, even one compromised area can allow water intrusion — which insurance companies take very seriously.
📋 What Insurance Adjusters Use to Evaluate Wind Claims
Insurance adjusters are typically looking for:
- A sufficient number of damaged shingles per slope
- Damage across multiple slopes of the roof (not just one side)
- Evidence of recent storm activity in your area
- Signs of functional, not cosmetic, damage
There’s no universal number of missing or lifted shingles that guarantees a full replacement — but in many cases, if 25% or more of a single slope is damaged, insurance will approve replacement of that slope. If damage is found across multiple slopes, this can lead to a full roof replacement.
🛠️ Local Building Code Matters Too
In many areas, building codes play a role in what insurance is required to cover. For example:
- If repairs would result in a mismatch, and your code mandates uniformity, your insurance may cover full slope or full roof replacement.
- Some jurisdictions require full replacement when more than a certain percentage of a slope is damaged (e.g., 25%).
At Brown’s Roofing, we understand how to combine local code knowledge with the insurance claim process — and we use that experience to support your case.
📅 Why Timing and Documentation Are Crucial
Most insurance policies require that you report storm-related damage within a specific timeframe — usually within 6 to 12 months after the event. The longer you wait, the more difficult it becomes to prove that wind was the cause.
Our process includes:
- Thorough inspection and photo documentation
- Weather data reports from certified sources to match your storm date
- Direct adjuster coordination to ensure nothing is missed
- Expert assistance with claim supplements and scope reviews
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners whose damage was initially overlooked or denied get fair coverage with the right evidence.
🏡 What If Only Part of the Roof Was Damaged?
Great question. In many cases, partial damage is enough to trigger a full replacement. Here’s how:
- Shingle availability: If your shingle type or color has been discontinued, a proper repair may not be possible.
- Slope-to-slope matching: Insurance companies are often obligated to match materials for aesthetics and performance.
- Manufacturer guidelines: Attempting to “patch” certain damage may violate manufacturer warranties.
That’s why it’s essential to have a roofer who understands not just roofing, but insurance policy language and construction standards.
📞 Get a Free Wind Damage Inspection from Brown’s Roofing
If your area recently experienced a windstorm — or if your shingles just don’t look quite right — it’s time to schedule a free inspection. Even one lifted or creased shingle can lead to leaks and long-term issues, and insurance may cover the cost of fixing it before it gets worse.
✅ Fast and professional inspections
✅ Insurance claim assistance
✅ Quality work backed by experience and warranty
Call Brown’s Roofing today or book your inspection online. We’re here to help you protect your home — and your peace of mind.
