Hailstorms can wreak havoc on roofs, causing extensive damage that often goes unnoticed until it leads to more serious issues. Recognizing hail damage early can save homeowners significant repair costs and prevent further structural deterioration. This guide will help answer the question, “What does hail damage look like on a roof?”, how to inspect for it, and more, including:
- Understanding hail damage
- Types of hail damage
- 6 Steps to inspect for hail damage
- When to call a professional
- Filing an insurance claim
- Preventative measures
🤔 Understanding Hail Damage
Hailstones vary in size, from small pebbles to large golf balls, and can fall at speeds exceeding 100 mph. The impact of these hailstones can cause a range of damage to roofing materials, from superficial cosmetic issues to severe structural problems. The extent of damage depends on several factors, including the size and density of the hailstones, wind speed, the age and condition of the roof, and the materials used in the roofing.
👉 Types of Hail Damage
Hail storms can cause significant damage to your roof, affecting both its functionality and appearance. In this section, we will explore the various types of hail damage that can occur, from cracked shingles to dented metal, and discuss how to identify these issues before they lead to more extensive problems.
Asphalt Shingle Damage
- Granule Loss: Hail impact can dislodge the granules on asphalt shingles, exposing the underlying asphalt layer to UV radiation and accelerating the aging process. You might notice bald spots where granules are missing.
- Bruising: Run your hand over the shingles to feel for soft spots or indentations. These bruises might not be immediately visible but indicate underlying damage.
- Cracks and Splits: Larger hailstones can cause cracks or splits in shingles, leading to potential leaks.
- Exposed Mat: Severe impacts might reveal the fiberglass mat beneath the shingles, a clear sign of significant damage.
Wood Shingle Damage
- Splintering: Hail can cause wood shingles to splinter or break, leaving sharp edges and increasing the risk of water infiltration.
- Dents and Impact Marks: Look for circular or crescent-shaped dents on the surface of the wood shingles.
Metal Roof Damage
- Dents: Metal roofs are prone to dents from hail impacts. The severity can range from minor cosmetic issues to significant indentations that affect the roof’s integrity.
- Paint Damage: Hail can chip or scratch the paint on metal roofs, leading to potential rust and corrosion.
Tile Roof Damage
- Cracks and Breaks: Hail can crack or shatter clay or concrete tiles. These cracks may be visible on the surface or underneath the tiles.
- Loose Tiles: Severe impacts can loosen tiles, increasing the risk of them falling or allowing water to seep underneath.
🔎 6 Steps to Inspect for Hail Damage
Inspecting your roof for hail damage is a crucial step in maintaining the structural integrity and safety of your home. In this section, we will outline a simple, six-step guide to help you accurately identify and document any hail damage on your roof, ensuring you can address problems promptly and efficiently.
1. Safety First
Ensure your safety by using proper equipment such as a sturdy ladder, slip-resistant shoes, and a safety harness if necessary. Avoid inspecting the roof during bad weather or immediately after a hailstorm.
2. Exterior Ground Inspection
Walk around your property and look for signs of hail damage on other surfaces, such as gutters, downspouts, siding, windowsills, and outdoor furniture. This can give you an indication of the severity of the hailstorm and whether your roof might be affected.
3. Check Gutters and Downspouts
Inspect gutters and downspouts for dents or granules. A significant amount of granules in the gutters can indicate that shingles have been damaged.
4. Examine the Roof from a Ladder
Use a ladder to get a closer look at the roof. Focus on areas where the roof may be more vulnerable, such as ridges, edges, and valleys. Look for signs of damage as outlined in the types of hail damage section.
5. Inspect Roof Components
Check the condition of roof vents, chimneys, skylights, and other protrusions. Hail can damage these components, leading to potential leaks and further roof damage.
6. Photographic Evidence
Take clear photos of any damage you find. These will be useful for insurance claims and professional inspections.
👨🔧 When to Call a Professional
While a homeowner can perform a basic inspection, it’s often best to call a professional roofing contractor to conduct a thorough assessment, especially if you suspect significant damage. Professionals have the experience and tools to safely inspect the roof and identify subtle signs of damage that might be missed during a DIY inspection.
📑 Filing an Insurance Claim
If you find hail damage on your roof, it’s important to act quickly to file an insurance claim. Here’s how to proceed:
- Document the Damage
- Use the photos you took during your inspection to document the extent of the damage. Take notes on the location and severity of the damage.
- Contact Your Insurance Company
- Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the documentation and any other information they require.
- Schedule an Adjuster Inspection
- Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage. Be present during the inspection to ensure all damage is noted.
- Get Professional Estimates
- Obtain repair estimates from reputable roofing contractors. This will give you an idea of the repair costs and help ensure the insurance settlement is fair.
- Review Your Policy
- Understand your insurance policy, including coverage limits, deductibles, and any exclusions. This will help you navigate the claim process more effectively.
💡 Preventative Measures
While you can’t prevent hailstorms, there are steps you can take to minimize potential damage to your roof:
- Install Impact-Resistant Shingles
- Consider upgrading to Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, which are designed to withstand hail impact better than standard shingles.
- Regular Maintenance
- Keep your roof in good condition with regular maintenance. Repair any minor issues promptly to prevent them from worsening during a hailstorm.
- Trim Trees
- Trim tree branches near your roof to reduce the risk of them falling and causing additional damage during a hailstorm.
- Install Protective Devices
- Consider installing hail guards or screens on vulnerable roof components like skylights and vents.
🙌 Comprehensive Hail Damage Management with Maumee River Roofing
Hail damage to a roof can range from minor cosmetic issues to severe structural problems. Understanding what hail damage looks like and how to inspect for it can help you address issues early and prevent further damage. At Maumee River Roofing, our team of experts excels in identifying and addressing hail damage accurately and efficiently. We provide thorough inspections and detailed assessments, ensuring that all issues are documented correctly for your insurance claims.
By choosing Maumee River Roofing, you are choosing peace of mind. Our professional roofing contractors are equipped with the knowledge and experience to perform meticulous inspections and provide top-notch maintenance. We are committed to preserving the integrity of your home.
Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and understanding your insurance coverage are key to managing hail damage effectively. Trust the experts at Maumee River Roofing to keep your roof in optimal condition. Stay vigilant and proactive with us to safeguard your roof against the unpredictable forces of nature.
Contact Maumee River Roofing today for a comprehensive roof inspection and ensure your home is protected. Call us now or visit our website to schedule an appointment!
