How Hail Can Damage Your Roof and What to Do
Hailstorms can wreak havoc on your roof, leaving it damaged and vulnerable to further issues. Understanding how hail affects your roof and the steps you should take afterward can save you time, money, and stress. It's crucial to act quickly to prevent minor issues from turning into major problems.
When hailstones hit your roof, they can cause both visible and hidden damage. You might see dents and cracks immediately after the storm, but there could also be unseen problems like weakened shingles and water ingress. Ignoring these issues can lead to long-term damage that may not become apparent until it's too late.
Let’s dive into how to recognize, address, and prevent hail damage to ensure your roof stays in top condition.
How Hail Damages Your Roof
Immediate Visible Damage
When hail hits your roof, the first things you’ll notice are dents, cracks, and sometimes missing shingles. Bigger hailstones can even puncture the roofing material altogether. The size of the hailstones, the wind speed, and the age of your roof all play a role in how much damage occurs. Dents in metal roofing or vents and skylights are obvious signs that your roof has taken a beating.
Hidden Damages
Beyond what you can see, hail can cause hidden problems that might not be immediately apparent. Weakened shingles are common. Though a shingle might not show visible signs of damage right away, the impact can loosen its integrity. This makes it easier for water to seep in and lead to water ingress issues. Water can infiltrate under the shingles, damaging the underlayment and eventually causing leaks that could lead to more serious structural problems in your home.
Long-term Effects of Hail Damage
Ignoring hail damage can lead to long-term effects on your roof’s health. Over time, weakened shingles fail to protect your home adequately, leading to more frequent leaks. Water ingress can cause rot, mold, and mildew in the attic and even damage the insulation. These problems can be costly to fix and might require extensive repairs or even a full roof replacement.
Signs Your Roof Has Hail Damage
Visual Clues to Watch For Post-Storm
After a hailstorm, take some time to look for visible signs of damage. Start by walking around your home and checking the ground for granules from asphalt shingles. You might also find these granules in your gutters. Look for dents or cracks in metal flashing, vents, and skylights. Missing or broken shingles are clear indicators that your roof has been impacted.
Checking for Granule Loss on Shingles
Granule loss on your shingles is another sign of hail damage. Granules help protect the asphalt underneath from the sun and provide fire resistance. When they are knocked off by hail, the asphalt is exposed to the elements and can deteriorate faster. To check for granule loss, look at the shingles and see if they appear bare or have bald spots. You can also run your hand over the shingles to feel for loose granules.
Inspecting Gutters and Downspouts for Signs of Damage
Your gutters and downspouts can provide clues about roof damage. Check to see if they are dented or if there is any debris trapped inside them. Large amounts of shingle granules in the gutters indicate that the impact from hail was strong enough to dislodge them. Additionally, water stains or marks below the gutters can signify that the gutters overflowed due to hail blocking them, leading to improper water drainage during the storm.
Spotting these signs and addressing them quickly can help prevent further damage and save you from more expensive repairs down the line.
Steps to Take After Hail Storm
Conducting a Preliminary Inspection
After a hailstorm, the first thing you should do is a preliminary inspection of your roof and property. Start with a walk-around at ground level and take note of visible damage like missing shingles, dents, and debris. Use binoculars if necessary to get a better view of the roof. If it's safe to do so, consider using a ladder to get a closer look at any questionable areas. Remember to check other structures like sheds and garages for damage too.
Documenting the Damage with Photos and Notes
Documenting the damage is crucial for filing insurance claims. Take clear photos of all the damage you can find, both up close and from a distance. It's helpful to add notes to your photos, describing the location and type of damage. Keep a detailed list of all the problems you've spotted, including information like the date and time of the storm. This documentation will be valuable when you talk to your insurance company and any contractors.
Contacting Your Insurance Company
Once you've completed your preliminary inspection and documented the damage, contact your insurance company. Inform them of the hailstorm and the damage to your roof. They will likely send an adjuster to assess the situation. Be ready to share your photos and notes to help the adjuster understand the extent of the damage. Following these steps will streamline the claims process and help you get your roof repaired more quickly.
Repairing and Preventing Hail Damage
Temporary Fixes Until Professional Help Arrives
Before professional help arrives, there are temporary fixes you can do to prevent further damage. Cover any missing shingles or holes with a tarp to keep water out. You can use roofing tape or a heavy-duty plastic sheet for smaller areas. If you've found leaks, set up buckets or containers inside your home to catch the water and minimize damage.
Importance of Professional Inspections and Repairs
Getting a professional inspection and repairs is vital to ensure your roof is restored properly. Professionals have the skills and tools to detect both visible and hidden damage. They can fix problems that might go unnoticed during a DIY inspection. Professional repairs also help maintain your roof's warranty and can prevent long-term issues like mold and structural damage.
Conclusion
Hailstorms can leave your roof in shambles, but knowing how to recognize and respond to damage can make a big difference. From conducting initial inspections to documenting damage and contacting your insurance company, every step helps in restoring your roof’s condition. Temporary fixes can prevent further damage until professional help arrives, ensuring that your home stays protected.
Need expert help with hail damage? Contact Spire Roofing and Restoration today for a professional inspection and reliable hail damage roof repair services. Our team is ready to help you get your roof back to its best. Call us now to schedule an appointment!