Common causes of roof damage in Illinois
In Illinois, unpredictable weather patterns can pose threats to the durability of roofs. From gusty winds and hailstorms to heavy rain and freezing temperatures, these elements can cause significant damage. Identifying the common causes of roof issues is essential for homeowners to address potential problems promptly. Here are four key factors contributing to roof damage in Illinois: Wind, Hail, Heavy Rain, and Ice.
Wind: Strong winds, common in Illinois, can lift and damage roofing materials. This may result in the loosening or removal of shingles, potentially compromising the roof's integrity and requiring repairs.
Hail: Hailstorms can cause significant damage to roofs, especially when hailstones are large. The impact of hail can lead to dented or cracked shingles, necessitating prompt inspection and repairs to prevent water infiltration.
Heavy Rain: Persistent heavy rain can overwhelm the drainage system of a roof, leading to water pooling, leaks, and potential water damage. Regular roof maintenance is essential to ensure it can withstand periods of intense rainfall.
Ice: Freezing temperatures in Illinois can lead to the formation of ice on the roof, causing ice dams. These dams can block proper drainage and lead to water infiltration, potentially causing damage to the roof structure. Addressing ice-related issues promptly is crucial for preventing further damage.
Roof Damaging Weather in Illinois
Tornadoes
In 2023, Illinois had more tornadoes than any other state in the U.S. On average, Illinois sees about 50 tornadoes each year. About 80% of these tornadoes occur between April 1st through June 30th. Tornadoes can cause significant damage to roofs in Deerfield, Illinois. Of the 19,079 residents in the Deerfield area, 7,601 homeowners’ roofs could potentially be damaged. This damage can lead to water leaks, structural issues, and the potential for further destruction inside the home.
Severe Wind
Strong winds and hail can cause large amounts of damage to your roof. Once a shingle is damaged, its integrity has been permanently compromised. These strong winds can:
- lift and tear off shingles, exposing the underlying roof deck to the elements, and making your home vulnerable to water damage.
- loosen or damage flashings, allowing water to leak into your home.
- blow debris onto your roof, damaging shingles and other roof components.
- damage soffit and fascia, exposing your roof to the elements and allowing pests to enter your home.
Hail
Hail is sometimes just as big of a threat to your roof as heavy snow, even though it comes in smaller amounts. Hail can:
- dent and crack shingles, compromising their ability to shed water and making them more likely to blow off in high winds.
- break through shingles, creating holes in your roof that allow water to leak into your home.
- damage gutters and downspouts, preventing water from draining properly and leading to ice dams in the winter.
Snow
Deerfield averages 36 inches of snow per year. The buildup of snow has the potential to strain the structural integrity of your roof, resulting in sagging, twisted rafters, and in extreme cases, collapse. As snow melts and temperatures drop, ice dams can form, obstructing proper water drainage. This trapped water can penetrate beneath shingles, leading to leaks and compromising the integrity of your roof's underlayment and insulation.
Recent severe weather storms in Illinois
Year | Tornadoes | Severe Wind | Severe Hail |
2023 |
136 |
705 |
305 |
2022 |
36 |
718 |
145 |
2021 |
75 |
573 |
84 |
2020 |
64 |
759 |
165 |
2019 |
48 |
587 |
175 |
Does homeowners insurance cover roof repairs in Illinois?
Homeowners insurance for residences in Illinois often includes coverage for roof repair costs resulting from natural damage like storms or fires. Insurance claims assistance for roofing usually excludes repairs due to normal wear and tear, aging, or faulty installation. The coverage for specific types of roof damage varies among insurance providers and depends on the details of the homeowner's policy. Not all roof issues may qualify for reimbursement, even with homeowners insurance in place.
Common insurance claims for roof damage
A Bankrate report in 2020 disclosed that 45.5% of homeowners insurance claims were linked to wind or hail damage. The average payout for storm-related roof repairs reached $13,804. In the same year, the leading causes of homeowners insurance claims were categorized as wind/hail damage, fire/lightning damage, water/ice damage, and other property damage, respectively.
Damage Cause | Insurance Claims Filed (% in 2020) | Claim Payout (USD) |
Wind & Hail |
45.5% |
$5,000 - $15,000 |
Fire & Lightning |
23.8% |
$30,000 - $50,000 |
Water Damage & Ice |
19.9% |
$5,000 - $10,000 |
Other Damages |
10.8% |
$2,000 - $10,000 |