There are always concerns with roofing when it comes to storms, snow, heavy rainfall, and other precipitation. Leaks, stains, and damage are always risks, particularly if the roof has not been attended to in recent years. However, one particular problem, wind-driven rain, can be more difficult to deal with than some other issues.
Keep the Droplets out of the House
When the wind isn’t blowing, rain tends to fall vertically, landing safely (usually) without damage unless there are gaping holes in the doors, windows, roof, or floor. However, when the wind is more active, it directs the water sideways and it reaches places it may not have otherwise gotten to. For example, it can be tossed under doorways to or different spaces around gutters. Unfortunately, insurance companies are notorious when it comes to these claims; they often note that it’s more due to a maintenance error that the rain entered and thus they owe no money. “According to the National Flood Insurance Program; ‘When rain enters through a wind-damaged window or door, or comes through a hole in a wall or roof, the NFIP considers the resulting puddles and damage to be windstorm-related, not flood-related.’
Naturally, the best defense against wind-driven rain is to seek a highly competent contractor in order to prevent any insurance frustrations should wind-driven rain enter the picture. Some initial checks that you can do in the meantime to take preventative measures include:
- Checking for leaks around windows and doors.
- Peeling paint, stains, discolorations, and other blemishes can be a sign of a leak.
- If siding seems to have suffered damage, it should be replaced.
- Make sure anything that needs to be caulked outside or in is checked regularly for cracks.
- Don’t forget the attic and basement; both are highly subject to rain.
- Make sure trees or other plants’ branches aren’t too close to the side of the home so as not to potentially tear into the house.
- Vines, ivy, and other creeper plants can cause cracks and should not be allowed to grow on or against the exterior.
Keep these details in mind when you see storm clouds and make sure to ask an expert if you have any questions or concerns at all. For advice, services, or for a free estimate for your roof, get in touch with Cox Roofing today.
Cox Roofing:
Cox Roofing is a full-service, certified roofing contractor providing residential and commercial roofing services to the state of Maryland, with particular focus on Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Harford County and Howard County. We pride ourselves on our personalized service which transforms your property into the residence or business of your dreams. Get in touch for your free estimate today.
