Roof Hail Damage – The Signs and What To Do
After a storm, you always want to make sure that your roof was able to withstand the severe weather. It is no different with hail and the roof damage may not be immediately noticeable. Even if the size of the hail is small, the local wind conditions and fall speed can have a significant impact on the damage.
How to Spot Roof Hail Damage
Older roofs are more prone to hail damage , but it can affect any roof at any age. The clearest indication of hail damage is the loss of granules from the coating on your shingles. It can look like indentations or divots on the impacted areas. Even if you don’t notice this, your roof may still have suffered hail damage. On a membrane roof, it can be identified as fractures, since PVC roofs are more difficult to tear. The fractures are immediate and able to be identified by a trained professional due to their small size. Also, checking for indents on your gutters, siding and metal flashings can help reveal that you have sustained hail damage. You can even refer to damage to your AC unit as a possible sign of hail damage.
Initial Damage To Your Roof
Hail damage can put your roof at risk for leaks through the divots or even holes it leaves behind. The leaks may not be immediately noticeable but can show up long after the storm has cleared away. Even if you don’t have a leak, the damage creates vulnerability to excess moisture which can lead to mold or future leaks in your roof.
Steps to Take
Letting hail damage go untreated can shorten the life of your roof and end up costing you more down the line. Getting a professional evaluation will help determine if you need a repair or a replacement, but it is best to act quickly since some of the damage can be unnoticeable to the naked eye. Addressing your hail damage sooner rather than later also allows you to have a better chance at claiming the damage for insurance purposes. Cleaning up after a storm can be stressful, you can relieve some of the financial burden by contacting your insurance provider early on. You may also still be under the manufacturer’s warranty for your roof.
If you have suffered from hail damage recently or are in an area that has experienced hail damage, give us a call and we can come examine the damage closer. 800-303-8392
Posted by Leona Burton