What Does Hail Damage Look Like on a Roof? (Inspection Guide)
Hailstorms can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare, especially when it comes to the potential damage they can cause to your roof. Understanding what hail damage looks like and knowing how to identify it early can save you thousands of dollars in repairs and help maintain the integrity of your home.
We’re here to walk you through everything you need to know about hail damage, from:
- The types of damage to look for to
- Steps you can take if you suspect your roof has been affected.
- What does hail damage look like on a roof
What is Hail Damage?
Hail damage occurs when hailstones, which can range in size from small pebbles to golf balls or larger, collide with your roof at high speeds. The impact from these hailstones can cause a variety of issues, ranging from minor cosmetic imperfections to severe structural damage. Recognizing these signs early can help you address problems before they escalate.
Why is Identifying Hail Damage Important?
Failing to identify and address hail damage can lead to:
- Leaks and Water Damage: Damaged roofing materials can allow water to seep into your home, causing extensive damage to walls, ceilings, and personal belongings.
- Reduced Lifespan of Your Roof: Even minor damage can shorten the lifespan of your roof, leading to more frequent and costly repairs or replacements.
- Decreased Property Value: A damaged roof can negatively impact the value of your home and make it more difficult to sell.
- Insurance Issues: Timely identification and reporting of hail damage can make the difference between having your insurance claim approved or denied.
Types of Hail Damage
Understanding the different types of hail damage is crucial for proper identification. Here are the most common types:
Granule Loss
What to Look For:
- Bald patches on asphalt shingles.
- Accumulation of granules in gutters and downspouts.
Explanation:
Granules on asphalt shingles are designed to protect your roof from UV rays and provide fire resistance. When hailstones impact the shingles, they can dislodge these granules, leading to bald spots that expose the underlying material to the elements.
Bruising
What to Look For:
- Soft spots or indentations on shingles that feel like a bruise on an apple.
- Areas that give slightly when pressed.
Explanation:
Bruising occurs when hailstones cause the shingle mat to compress without breaking the surface. Over time, these bruises can deteriorate further, leading to leaks and other issues.
Cracks and Splits
What to Look For:
- Visible cracks or splits in shingles.
- Shingles that appear jagged or broken.
Explanation:
Larger hailstones or extreme hailstorm conditions can cause shingles to crack or split entirely. This type of damage is more severe and often requires immediate attention to prevent further deterioration.
Dents in Metal Components
What to Look For:
- Dents in metal flashing, vents, and gutters.
- Indentations in metal roof panels.
Explanation:
Metal components of your roof are also susceptible to hail damage. Dents in these areas can compromise their functionality and aesthetic appeal, and in some cases, affect the overall performance of your roof system.
Shingle Displacement
What to Look For:
- Shingles that are out of alignment or appear to have shifted.
- Gaps between shingles that were not there previously.
Explanation:
The force of hailstones can sometimes be strong enough to displace shingles from their original position. This can create gaps that allow water and debris to enter, potentially causing further damage to your roof and home.
4 Steps to Identify Hail Damage
Here are some steps you can take to identify hail damage on your roof:
Step 1: Inspect the Ground Level
Check for:
- Hailstones of varying sizes.
- Damage to plants, outdoor furniture, and vehicles.
Explanation:
Before climbing onto your roof, examine your property from the ground level. Look for signs of hail impact on plants, outdoor furniture, and vehicles. If you notice significant damage in these areas, it’s likely that your roof has also been affected.
Step 2: Examine the Roof
Tools Needed:
- Ladder
- Binoculars
- Gloves
- Chalk or marker
Steps:
- Use a ladder to carefully climb up to roof level.
- Use binoculars to inspect your roof from a safe distance.
- Look for the types of damage listed earlier (granule loss, bruising, cracks, dents, and shingle displacement).
- If it’s safe to do so, gently press on suspicious areas to check for soft spots or bruising.
- Mark any areas of concern with chalk or a marker for further inspection or repair.
Step 3: Check Gutters and Downspouts
Check for:
- Accumulated granules
- Dents or damage to gutters and downspouts
Explanation:
Inspect your gutters and downspouts for accumulated granules and dents. The presence of granules in these areas is a strong indicator of shingle damage. Dented gutters and downspouts further confirm hail impact.
Step 4: Inspect Attic and Ceilings
Check for:
- Water stains or damp spots on ceilings and walls
- Signs of leaks in the attic
Explanation:
Go into your attic and check for signs of leaks or water damage. Also, inspect the ceilings and walls of your home for water stains or damp spots. These are clear indicators that your roof has been compromised and is allowing water to enter.
What to Do If You Suspect Hail Damage
If you suspect that your roof has sustained hail damage, follow these steps to address the issue:
πΈ Document the Damage
How to Document:
- Take clear, close-up photos of all areas of damage.
- Make notes about the extent and location of the damage.
Explanation:
Documenting the damage is crucial for insurance claims. Take clear photos and make detailed notes about the extent and location of the damage. This will help you when filing a claim and communicating with roofing contractors.
π Contact Your Insurance Company
What to Do:
- Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible.
- Provide them with the documentation you collected.
Explanation:
Contact your insurance company to report the damage and initiate a claim. Provide them with the photos and notes you took during your inspection. An insurance adjuster will likely visit your property to assess the damage and determine coverage.
π·πΌββοΈ Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor
What to Look For:
- Licensed and insured contractors
- Positive reviews and testimonials
- Experience with hail damage repairs
Explanation:
Hiring a professional roofing contractor is essential for assessing and repairing hail damage. Look for licensed and insured contractors with experience in hail damage repairs. Read reviews and ask for testimonials to ensure you’re hiring a reputable professional.
π Schedule Repairs
What to Do:
- Get multiple quotes from different contractors.
- Schedule the repairs as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Explanation:
Obtain quotes from multiple contractors to ensure you’re getting a fair price. Once you’ve selected a contractor, schedule the repairs promptly to prevent further damage to your roof and home.
Preventing Hail Damage
While you can’t control the weather, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of hail damage to your roof:
Choose Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials
Options:
- Class 4 impact-resistant shingles
- Metal roofing
Explanation:
When replacing your roof or installing a new one, consider using impact-resistant roofing materials. Class 4 impact-resistant shingles and metal roofing are designed to withstand hail impact better than traditional materials.
Install Protective Measures
Options:
- Roof coatings
- Hail guards for HVAC units and skylights
Explanation:
Protective measures such as roof coatings and hail guards can provide an additional layer of defense against hail damage. Roof coatings can help absorb the impact of hailstones, while hail guards protect vulnerable components like HVAC units and skylights.
Regular Maintenance and Inspections
What to Do:
- Schedule regular roof inspections, especially after severe weather events.
- Keep your roof and gutters clean and free of debris.
Explanation:
Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address minor issues before they become major problems. Schedule inspections, especially after severe weather events, and keep your roof and gutters clean and free of debris.
Your Roof Damage Experts
Hail damage can be a significant concern for homeowners, but understanding what to look for and how to address it can make all the difference. =
Remember, if you suspect hail damage, document the damage, contact your insurance company, and hire a professional roofing contractor to assess and repair the damage. Additionally, consider taking preventive measures to minimize the risk of hail damage in the future.
Protecting your home from hail damage is an ongoing process, but with the right knowledge and proactive approach, you can ensure your roof remains in excellent condition for years to come. For more information or assistance with hail damage repairs, contact Built Right Roofing today! We’re here to help you protect your home and keep your roof in top shape.