Hail storms can be just as dangerous as rain or snow storms, causing breakage, damage, and dents to roofing. Some surfaces do not make it easy to identify storm damage and this means much can go undetected and unfixed. It is always recommended to work with a professional to identify storm damage and get it fixed sooner rather than later.

Inspecting Your Roof for Hail Damage

Maintaining the exterior of your roof will ensure that the inside of the building remains safe. To protect the internal structure of your property, regular maintenance is needed for your roof. This includes regular inspections after any storms. Most insurance policies will cover damage caused by hail, but it needs to be properly identified by a professional first. 

Before you reach out to a specialist, there are a few things you can do to locate any damage caused by a hail storm. Check all metal parts of the roof (flashing, valleys, and vents) for denting. Look at the top of the roof, specifically along the ridge cap as this flat are is likely to receive the most damage. You need to look for three types of damage when it comes to hail; bruising, cracking, and missing granules. In addition to the top of the roof, there are other areas that will require inspection after a hail storm.

• Check your gutters and downspouts for dents. Gutters that have been significantly damaged need to be replaced so they do not cause blockages.
• Sidings and windows can also be damaged depending on the size of the hail stones.
• Outdoor A/C or HVAC units may be dented or dinged and can indicate that hail damage could have occurred in other areas.

Ignoring hail damage, as with any storm damage, will be a costly mistake. Finding and repairing dents or missing shingles is cheaper than having to replace your entire roof. Damage that is not fixed right away can get worse over time, allowing for leaks and internal structure damage. If you suspect any damage after a hail storm, contact us to provide a full inspection. We will help you identify the problems and get them fixed before it is too late.

Your roof is one of the first lines of defense against bad weather, so it needs to be maintained and kept in optimal condition. Otherwise you risk the safety of the building as well as the property inside. Mold growth, water damage, and cracked roofing needs to be repaired immediately to avoid more expensive damage down the road. Check your roof after any storm and then reach out to us for an evaluation to get your roof back in the best shape possible.

For any questions or to schedule a roof inspection, contact us today!