Have you recently experienced a hailstorm in your area? While it can be an awe-inspiring natural phenomenon, it can also cause significant damage to your roof. Hailstones ranging from pea-sized to golf ball-sized can leave dents and cracks on your shingles that may not be visible at first glance. This type of damage is known as hail damage, and if left unchecked, it could lead to more severe problems like leaks and structural issues. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to check for hail damage on shingles, what steps you need to take if you find any damage, how to repair the damages caused by hailstorms, and even some tips on preventing future roof damage. So let’s get started!
What is hail damage?
Hail damage is a common problem for homeowners who live in areas with frequent hailstorms. Hailstones that are larger than dime-sized can cause significant damage to your roof, especially if the shingles are old or already damaged.
The severity of the damage caused by hail depends on various factors such as the size and density of hailstones, wind direction, and the angle at which they hit your roof. It’s not uncommon for hail damage to go unnoticed immediately after a storm because it may be difficult to detect without proper inspection.
Some signs of hail damage on shingles include dents or cracks on individual shingles, dislodged granules, exposed fiberglass matting underneath the shingle surface, and even holes in extreme cases. If you notice any of these signs after a recent storm, it’s essential to take action quickly to prevent further damage from occurring.
Ignoring small problems like this could lead to more severe issues down the road – so always make sure you check your roof regularly for any potential damages caused by weather conditions like thunderstorms and hurricanes!
How to check for hail damage on shingles
Hail storms can cause significant damage to your roof, including the shingles. It’s important to check for hail damage on your shingles as soon as possible so you can take action and prevent further problems.
To check for hail damage on your shingles, start by looking for dents or cracks in the surface of the shingle itself. Hail impact often causes small circular marks that may be black or brown in color.
Next, look at any areas where there are multiple layers of shingles, such as near the edges of a roof or around dormers. These areas are more prone to hail damage due to their raised profile. Look for missing granules which will expose felt paper underneath.
If you’re unsure about whether you have hail damage, it’s always best to call us Peak to Peak Roofing and Exterior. We have years of experience inspecting roofs for hail damage and can help you determine the severity of the damage. Our dedicated team of professionals will also be able to provide you with the necessary repairs and preventative measures to keep your roof in good condition.
Remember that even if there doesn’t seem to be much visible damage on the outside of your roof, there could still be underlying problems that need attention. Don’t delay in having them addressed since they might lead to bigger damages later on!
What to do if you find hail damage on your shingles
If you find hail damage on your shingles, it’s important to take action quickly. Leaving damaged shingles can lead to further issues with your roof and potentially cause leaks or other problems down the line.
The first step is to document the damage by taking pictures of the affected areas of your roof. This will come in handy when working with insurance companies or contractors.
Next, contact a professional roofing contractor like Peak to Peak Roofing and Exteriors to assess the extent of the damage. We will be able to provide an estimate for repairs and advise on whether a full replacement may be necessary.
It’s also important to contact your homeowner’s insurance company as soon as possible. Hail damage may be covered under your policy, so filing a claim can help cover repair costs.
In some cases, temporary measures like covering damaged areas with tarpaulin may need to be taken until permanent repairs can be made.
Acting promptly when you notice hail damage on your shingles can prevent more extensive and expensive issues from arising later on.
How to Repair Hail Damage
Repairing hail damage on your shingles can be a daunting task, but it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take to repair hail damage on your roof.
Firstly, inspect the damaged area for any signs of cracks or tears in the shingles. If there is visible damage, remove the damaged shingle and replace it with a new one. Be sure to follow proper installation techniques and use appropriate roofing nails.
If you notice small dents or divots in your shingles caused by hail impact, consider using a heat gun or hair dryer set on high heat to soften the area around each dent. Use gentle pressure with your fingers or a soft rubber mallet to reshape the dented shingle back into its original form.
For larger areas of damage that cannot be easily repaired by reshaping or replacing individual shingles, you may want to consider calling in professional help from a reputable roofing contractor who specializes in repairing hail-damaged roofs.
Remember that repairing hail damage promptly can prevent further problems down the road such as leaks and water damage.
How to prevent hail damage on shingles
Preventing hail damage on your shingles is crucial to avoid costly repairs or replacements. One of the best ways to prevent hail damage is by installing impact-resistant shingles, which are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. These shingles are made with a reinforced fiberglass mat and coated with durable asphalt granules that can resist impacts from hailstones.
Additionally, regular maintenance of your roof can help prevent hail damage. Keeping your gutters clean and free from debris will ensure proper drainage during heavy rainstorms. Trimming nearby trees and branches will also help reduce the risk of falling limbs damaging your roof during a storm.
If you live in an area prone to frequent hailstorms, consider investing in protective covers for skylights and other vulnerable areas on your roof. These covers can provide an extra layer of protection against potential impacts.
It’s essential to have an experienced roofing contractor inspect your roof annually or after any severe weather event. A professional inspection can catch any existing damages before they become more significant problems that require expensive repairs or replacements.
Taking proactive steps such as installing impact-resistant shingles, performing regular maintenance checks, using protective covers for vulnerable areas, and hiring a professional inspector will significantly help protect your home from costly hail damage caused by severe storms.
Important Reminders to Remember
Hail damage can be a significant problem for your roof and shingles. Therefore, it’s essential to inspect your roof after every hailstorm or severe weather condition.
If you find any damages on the shingles, take the necessary steps to repair them immediately. The longer you wait, the more expensive it will become in terms of repairs and replacements.
By following the tips we’ve provided above, you can prevent further damage from happening to your shingles due to hailstorms. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for keeping your roof in excellent condition throughout its lifespan.
Remember that preventing hail damage is always better than repairing or replacing damaged shingles entirely. So make sure that you take all possible precautions and measures to protect your roofing system against hailstones before they hit!