What wind speed does a roof warranty cover?
Short answer. Shingle wind warranties usually cover blow-offs up to a stated speed, commonly in the 110 to 130 mph range for architectural shingles with standard installation, and higher or with no stated maximum in some enhanced warranties that require specific starter strips, ridge caps and nailing. Winds above the limit, or damage from flying debris, are generally an insurance matter, not a warranty claim.
How wind warranties are structured
- A speed limit. The warranty states the maximum wind speed it covers.
- A time limit. Wind coverage usually lasts a set number of years, shorter than the shingle's overall limited warranty.
- Installation conditions. Higher coverage often requires the manufacturer's starter strips at eaves and rakes, matching hip and ridge caps, and sometimes more nails per shingle.
- Registration. Enhanced coverage may require a certified contractor to register the roof.
What is usually not covered
- Winds above the stated limit.
- Damage from falling trees, limbs and flying debris.
- Shingles that were never sealed because of improper installation.
- Installation errors such as high nails, which fall on the contractor's workmanship warranty, if any.
When shingles blow off, who pays?
Most wind damage in Georgia comes from thunderstorm gusts and downbursts, and the National Weather Service considers a thunderstorm severe at 58 mph. Many blow-offs happen well below a shingle's rating because of sealing or nailing problems. If a storm caused the damage, start with your homeowners insurance; see wind damage roof claims. If shingles keep coming off in ordinary weather, it may be a workmanship or product issue.
Read your documents
Your warranty paperwork lists the wind speed and conditions for your roof. Learn the difference between product and workmanship coverage in roofing warranties explained, and how Georgia storms damage roofs in wind damage to roofs in Georgia.