Santa Ana Winds and Your Roof

Every fall and winter, hot, dry Santa Ana winds blow through Los Angeles. They are hard on roofs – and the damage often stays hidden until the next rain.

How wind damages a roof

• Shingles lift, crease or tear off, especially along edges and ridges.
• Tiles shift or crack, and loose ridge tiles can come off.
• Branches fall onto the roof or scrape it.
• Debris collects in valleys and gutters and blocks drainage.

What to check after a wind event

From the ground, look for missing or out-of-place shingles and tiles, pieces of roofing in the yard, and bent gutters. Inside, check the attic for daylight or new stains. Do not climb onto the roof yourself – call a roofer to inspect it.

Fire safety near the hills

Santa Ana winds also bring fire danger. Homes near brush and hillsides benefit from Class A fire-rated roofing, ember-resistant vents and clean gutters free of dry leaves. When it is time to replace your roof, these are worth discussing.

Prepare before the season

A fall inspection catches loose shingles, cracked tiles and worn flashing before the wind and then the rain arrive. Call NR Roofing at (818) 433-8632, or see roof maintenance.

More roofing tips: 7 Signs You Need a New Roof · Roof Repair or Replacement? · What to Do When Your Roof Leaks