Living in Colorado means dealing with severe weather conditions like hailstorms. If you’re concerned that hail may have caused damage to your roof, there’s no need to panic. Our tips will help you identify roof damage from hail on your roof so you can take the necessary steps to get it repaired.
To identify roof damage from hail on your roof, start by looking for dents or pockmarks on metal components such as flashing or vents. Check for missing or broken shingles and look for granules in gutters or at the base of downspouts. Additionally, you can inspect the roof for cracks or splits into the shingles or tiles.
Signs of Hail Damage
Hail damage can present itself in a variety of ways. Here are some signs to look out for when inspecting your roof:
Dents or Pockmarks on Metal Components
One of the most visible signs of hail damage is dents or pockmarks on metal components such as flashing or vents. These can be caused by hailstones striking the metal with significant force. If you notice these dents or pockmarks, it’s important to get them repaired to prevent leaks and further damage to your roof.
Missing or Broken Shingles
Hailstones can also damage the shingles on your roof. If you notice any missing or broken shingles, it’s a good indication that your roof has suffered hail damage. Even if the damage is limited to a few shingles, it’s vital to have them fixed quickly to prevent water damage.
Granule Loss
Hailstones can also knock off the protective granules on your shingles, leaving them vulnerable to UV damage and other environmental factors. If you notice granules in your gutters or at the base of downspouts, it’s a sign that your roof has suffered hail damage.
Cracks or Splits in Shingles or Tiles
In addition to knocking off granules, hailstones can also cause cracks or splits in your shingles or tiles. These cracks can be difficult to see, but they can lead to water damage and other issues if left unaddressed. If you suspect your shingles or tiles have cracks, it’s best to consult with a roofing professional.
Inspecting Roof for Hail Damage
It’s important to note that inspecting a roof for hail damage can be challenging and requires proper expertise. It is recommended to contact a professional roofing contractor, such as Just Roofs and Gutters, to document the current condition of the roof and provide a comprehensive inspection.
Common things that a roofing professional may find during a hail damage inspection include dents and pockmarks on the metal components, damaged, missing, or broken shingles as asphalt shingles can be damaged without visibly breaking, and granule loss in gutters or at the base of downspouts. Trusting a professional for a thorough assessment and repair estimate is the best way to ensure accurate and reliable results.
Identify Roof Damage from Hail and What to Do
If you’ve identified hail damage on your roof, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Document the Damage for Insurance Purposes. Take photos of the damage and document the date and time of the hailstorm. This information will be useful when filing an insurance claim.
Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor. While it may be tempting to try to repair the damage yourself, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. A roofing contractor can assess the damage and provide you with an estimate for repairs. If you need to make temporary repairs before a contractor arrives, use roofing tar to cover any cracks or splits.
How soon after a hailstorm should I have my roof inspected?
It’s best to have your roof inspected as soon as possible after a hailstorm, as delaying the inspection can result in further damage and potential safety hazards. Additionally, many insurance policies have a time limit for filing claims related to hail damage, so prompt action is recommended.
Don’t let hail damage go unchecked – even minor damage can lead to bigger problems down the road. Just Roofs and Gutters is here to help you. Contact us for a Free Roof Health Report.
