Can Wind Damage Roof Shingles in Florida?

Florida is famous for its unpredictable weather. Strong winds and storms are common, especially during hurricane season, which lasts from June to November. These high winds can cause damage to buildings, especially roofs. Here's how wind affects your roof shingles in Florida and what you can do to protect your home.

How Wind Damages Roof Shingles

The wind can have a big impact on your roof shingles. Strong wind can cause them to lift, break, or even blow right off. High winds break their adhesive seal and exposing the roof deck underneath. Once wind gets under a shingle, it can create a “peeling” effect — tearing off whole sections of roofing.This damage can lead to leaks, which can cause water damage to walls inside your house and insulation. Damaged shingles can affect the energy efficiency of your home: your AC system may have to work harder, leading to higher energy bills.

According to Kin Insurance data, 40.7% of all home insurance property damage claims are caused by wind and hail, with the average claim totaling about $13,511. That makes your roof’s wind rating one of the most important factors to consider when hiring a Florida roofer.

What Affects a Roof’s Wind Resistance

A roof’s ability to resist wind damage depends on several key factors:

• Shingle quality and rating: Look for shingles tested to ASTM D3161 or ASTM D7158 standards, which certify wind resistance up to 110–130 mph (and higher for premium shingles).

• Installation method: Proper nail placement and underlayment sealing make a major difference in whether shingles stay put during a storm.

• Roof shape and slope: Steeper roofs often deflect wind better than flat or low-slope ones.

Maintenance history: Loose flashing, old sealant, or clogged gutters can all contribute to wind uplift.

Why Florida Roofs Need Extra Protection

Homes in Volusia, Flagler, and St. Johns Counties face some of the strongest design wind speeds in the country — up to 150 mph under Florida Building Code (ASCE 7-16). Roof systems not installed to these standards risk major damage even from smaller tropical systems.

That’s why at Triangle Roofing, we use high-wind-rated materials from brands like CertainTeed, Owens Corning, and GAF — all tested to meet or exceed Florida’s strict building codes.

How to Prepare Your Roof for Wind Season

You can help protect your shingles from future wind damage with a few smart maintenance steps:

1. Schedule an annual inspection — especially before hurricane season.

2. Trim nearby trees to prevent branches from scraping or puncturing your roof.

3. Check attic ventilation to reduce pressure buildup under the roof deck.

4. Replace missing or lifted shingles promptly before small issues spread.

The wind can also cause damage to the roof's ridge vents and flashing. Ridge vents are the openings along the roof's peak that allow flow. They reduce heat buildup in the attic. The roof flashing are strips that cover the joints between the roof and chimneys or skylights. Both the ridge vents and flashing can be damaged by wind, just because of their position on the roof. It is important to keep an eye on these and check them after a wind storm.

Yes — wind absolutely can damage roof shingles in Florida, especially on older roofs or those not built to modern wind standards. The best defense is a strong, code-compliant installation using rated materials — plus regular inspections to catch early signs of wear.

If you’ve noticed lifted shingles or suspect wind damage after a recent storm, contact Triangle Roofing Inc for a roof inspection and repair estimate. Our father and son team specializes in protecting Florida homes from the elements, one roof at a time.

Don't Wait For a Wind Storm to Get a Roof Inspection

At Triangle Roofing Inc., we are trained to identify any damage that may not be immediately visible from the ground. We get up on your roof and can spot any issues or leaks. Triangle Roofing can provide necessary roof repairs or shingle replacement to ensure that your roof remains strong and watertight.

If you need a free roofing quote in Port Orange, Ormond Beach, Ponce Inlet, Bunnell, DeLand, or surrounding areas, contact Joe: joe.delia@triangleroofingusa.com

or call (386) 673-6600.