- Because, who wants water to pour through their roof?
April showers bring May flowers, but spring and summer are known for something else: hail. A sudden hailstorm can cause severe damage to your home’s exterior, compromising the structural integrity of the roof. If you think you need a new one, head over to this site. Here, we’ll show homeowners how to assess roof damage and find the right repair solutions.
Asphalt Shingles
On homes with asphalt shingles, repairing hail damage to the roof starts with looking for signs like dents, black and brown patches, and bruises. Falling hailstones often dislodge granules and break shingles, leaving roofs prone to water damage and accelerating deterioration.
Metal Panels
While metal roofs are largely resistant to storm damage, hail can still affect them. When a hailstone hits a metal roofing panel, it may create gouges, scrapes, and dents that cause corrosion, rust, and premature aging.
Clay Shingles
Cracks, breaks, and chips are a common sign of hail damage to tile roofing. In some instances, hailstorms may loosen clay tiles, revealing the roof’s underlayment. To preserve the roof’s integrity and keep water from getting in, hail-related breaks, cracks, and chips must be found and repaired promptly.
Wooden Shingles
Common in some regions, wooden shingles are beautiful but vulnerable to hail damage. Wooden shingles often develop dents, cracks, and splits after storms, which can cause them to become soft, spongy, and ineffective. Homeowners should inspect and repair hail damage to prevent leaks, minimize elemental exposure, and slow deterioration.
Assessing Hail Damage
To determine the severity of hail damage and find the best repair solutions, follow the steps below.
- Inspect the damage safely. Don’t get up on the roof in slippery, icy, or wet conditions, and call a professional if you are uncertain about any part of the inspection process.
- Look for water damage in the ceiling and attic. When searching for hail damage, start on the inside. Check the ceiling and attic for telltale water stains, mold growth, and dampness, as they indicate leaks.
- Check the HVAC system and roof flashing. Look at penetration points like skylights, vents, and chimneys, ensuring that flashing is sealed.
- Inspect windows and siding. Hail can damage other parts of the home in addition to the roof. Check siding and windows for chips, cracks, and dents to prevent leaks and preserve your home’s structural integrity.
- Check downspouts and gutters. Look for and remove clogs to prevent mold growth and water damage.
- Create insurance documentation. Take videos and photos of roof damage and list the affected areas. Proper documentation makes insurance claims easier and proves the severity of the damage.
If you’re not sure how to inspect the roof or document the damage, hire a roof repair and inspection specialist. Roofers can provide detailed assessments and reports, help with the claims process, and offer recommendations for repair.
Repairing Hail Damage
If our team finds evidence of damage, we will:
- Clean it up. We’ll remove debris to perform a thorough inspection and prevent future issues.
- Replace damaged panels or shingles. Next, we’ll replace missing and damaged components with secure fastening and proper alignment.
- Seal any exposed areas. Our team will then use sealant or roofing cement to seal cracks and gaps.
- Check for new leaks. After repairs are completed, we’ll inspect the ceiling and attic for new leaks.
It takes skill, diligence, and knowledge to inspect and repair rooftop hail damage. By looking for warning signs and seeking help when needed, you can protect your property and guarantee the longevity of your roof. Use our online form to request additional information or call to schedule a roof inspection.