Are you concerned about potential hail damage on your roof? With server weather on the rise, and more places dealing with unpredictable weather, it is important for you to know what hail damage on a roof looks like or the signs of hail damage on a roof.
The hail damage on a roof can be subtle yet costly. This blog will help you understand the minor and major impacts of a hail storm on your roof. Plus, we will explain how you can maintain and prevent your roof from future damage.
Common Signs of Hail Damage
One of the most apparent signs of hail damage on roof is dents or dimples in the roofing material. These dents in the roofing material are caused by the impact of the hail striking the roof. The size of the impact and dent on the roof depends on the size of the hail and the quality of the roofing material.
Another common sign of hail damage on the roof is bruises or discoloration. These bruises are caused by the impact of the hail, which appears as dark spots on the roof’s material. Additionally, missing or cracked shingles is also a sign of hail damage on asphalt shingles roofs. Since the granules protect the shingles from UV rays and water leaks, if you see shingle granules, it means the hail’s impact destroys them, and it will eventually cause further damage.
Size Of The Impact
Hail damage depends on the severity, appearance, hail size, and roofing materials. In other words, larger hail cause more severe damage, such as deep dents and punctures, while smaller hail may only cause minor dings and bruises.
Hail Damage On Different Types of Roofs
We can’t forget that different roofing materials show different signs of damage. For example, on an asphalt shingle roof, a hail storm knocks off shingle granules, making the underlying layer more vulnerable and even sometimes knocking off loose shingles. On a metal roof, in contrast to an asphalt roof, dents, and dings may be more apparent.
Additionally, the age and condition of the roof can also play a role in determining the severity of the damage. An older or poorly maintained roof may be more susceptible to damage, whereas a newer or well-maintained roof may be less affected.
Damages To Other Parts Of The Roof
In addition to causing damage to the main roofing material, hail storms also damage other roofing components, including skylights, flashing, and vents.
Flashing
The flashing seals the areas on a roof where the roof intersects with walls, chimneys, vents, and skylights to cover gaps or space. Since flashing is typically less thick and durable than the main roofing material, it is more vulnerable to hail damage.
Skylights And Vents
Skylights and vents are also more susceptible to damage from hail as they are not as sturdy as the main roofing material. These areas can develop cracks, leaks, or even break due to a hail storm.
Furthermore, it is important to note that these areas are often less visible than the main roofing material, so damage to flashing, skylights, and vents may go unnoticed, leading to further problems like water infiltration. It is crucial to have a professional inspect these areas after a hail storm to ensure that they have not been damaged.
Effects Of Damage Over Time
Damage caused by hail storms can have a significant impact on the longevity of a roof. For metal roofs, rust and corrosion can occur, weakening the structure and making it more susceptible to leaks.
Increased Risk Of Mold And Mildew
During a hail storm, hail can damage the roof and create openings for water to enter the structure. If water penetrates the roof, it can seep into the attic and other parts of the building.
If this is left unnoticed, this water damage could lead to the growth of mold and mildew. The moisture and warmth inside your home or building provide an ideal environment for it to grow.
Reduced Property Value
Hail damage or roof storm damage can have a significant impact on the value of a property. If a roof is damaged by hail, it can make the property less desirable to potential buyers, as they will likely be concerned about the cost of repairs. If a roof is visibly damaged, it can also make a property look less attractive, which can further reduce its value.
The Cost Of Repairs
The cost of repairs and replacement on a roof after a hail storm varies greatly depending on the extent of the damage and the type of roofing materials used. If the damage is minor, such as a few dented or cracked shingles, the cost of repairs may be relatively low. However, if the damage is extensive and affects a large portion of the roof, the cost of repairs can be quite high.
Identify The Location Of the Damage
To effectively identify the location of the damage on a roof after a hail storm, it is essential first to understand the different parts of the roof that are most susceptible to hail damage. For example, the valleys, ridges, and eaves are areas that are more prone to damage due to their shape and location. These areas regularly collect water and ice and can be easily damaged by hail. By examining these areas, it is possible to identify the location of the damage.
To access the roof, you must use proper safety equipment and techniques to avoid any accidents or injuries. It is best to hire a professional roofer to inspect the roof since they have the experience and equipment to safely access the roof, identify the damaged location, and provide an estimate for repairs.
Assess The Extent Of Damage
Getting a roof inspection by a professional roofer after hail damage has occurred is a part of the roof replacement and repair process. The roofer or contractor doing the inspection will be able to provide you with documentation on the extent of roof damage that you can use to file an insurance claim.
Call A Professional Roofer For A Roof Inspection
After a hail storm, it is important to assess the extent of damage that has occurred on the roof to determine whether repairs or replacements are necessary. For this purpose, you must hire a professional roofer to inspect the roof and provide an estimate for repairs or replacement. The professional roofer will be able to identify any damage caused by the hail storm, including cracked or missing shingles, dented or cracked gutters, or damaged flashing, and provide an estimate for the cost.
While assessing the extent of damage, homeowners should also consider the age of the roof. If the roof is old, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire roofing system rather than repair individual components.
Contact Your Roof Insurance Company
After determining the extent of damage, homeowners can file a claim with their insurance company if they choose to. To do this, you must have documentation of the damage which includes photographs of the damage, an estimate for repairs or replacement, and any other relevant documentation. By providing this information, homeowners can ensure that their claim is processed quickly and that they receive the coverage they need to make repairs or replace the roof.
Read our blog to know if your insurance policy will cover hail damage repair costs.
Prevention And Maintenance
Preventing damage and maintaining your roof is essential to protect your property from future hail damage. Regular maintenance and inspection of the roof can help to identify and address potential issues before they lead to significant damage.
Tips For Future Hail Damage Prevention
There are several steps homeowners and property managers can take to prevent future hail damage to their roofs:
Install Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials
Installing impact-resistant roofing materials, such as metal, slate, or tile, can help to minimize damage to a roof during hailstorms and other severe weather events.
Trim Your Trees
Trimming trees near the house can help to reduce the risk of damage from fallen branches during a hailstorm.
Prepare For Emergencies
Having an emergency plan in place can help minimize damage to the property during a severe weather event. This includes knowing how to turn off the power and where to go for shelter.
Install Storm Shutters
Installing storm shutters helps to protect windows and doors from hail damage.
Seal & Weatherproof
Sealing and weatherproofing the roof and other parts of the building can help to prevent water leakage and reduce the risk of mold and mildew growth.
Consider Insulation
Making sure that the attic is properly insulated can help to prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of ice dams occurring, which can lead to water leakage and damage to the roof.
By taking these steps, you can help to minimize the risk of hail damage to your roofs.
Conclusion
Serious hail damage can sometimes be disastrous for property owners depending on the materials they’ve used, the quality of installation, and the age of the roof. To prepare your roof and overcome the damage caused by hail storms, you should contact a professional roofing team.
If you are stuck in this situation in the Greater Dayton area, no worries because you’re in luck, All Around Roofing, Siding & Gutters will assist you with their hail storm damage services! The company serves homeowners in Ohio with their residential and commercial roofs with roof installation, replacement, repair, and inspection. You can call their expert team at (937)-902-2839 for a consultation.
