Hail is a common occurrence during thunderstorms, especially in the spring and summer months. While hail can be fun to watch (who hasn’t run to the window to peek out at a hail storm?), it can also cause serious damage to buildings, cars, and other objects that are caught in its path.
One of the areas that can be most affected by a hailstorm is the roof of a building. Homeowners often wonder if hail can damage their roofs and what measures they can take to prevent or repair any damages.
The short answer is – yes – hail can absolutely cause damage to a roof. The good news is most hail damage is easily fixed and if you address it quickly, won’t cause long-term damage.
Let’s take a look at the signs of hail damage and how to approach repairs after a hailstorm.
Signs of Hail Damage
Hailstorms can cause significant damage to your home, vehicles, and other personal property. While it might be easy to spot some hail damage other signs may not be as obvious. To ensure that you catch any damage before it turns into a problematic roof leak or other nuisance, it is critical to know what to look for.
One of the first things to check for is dents on cars in the driveway. While hail can range in size from small pellets to large balls, any size of hail can cause damage to your car’s exterior. Look for dents around the hood, roof, and trunk, as well as any other metal surfaces, such as doors and side panels. Similarly, inspect your garage door for dings and dents that could indicate hail damage.
Another area to check for damage is your window screens. While window glass itself is relatively resistant to hail damage, the screen provides much less protection. If you notice any tears or holes in your window screens, it is possible that your roof has also suffered hail damage. Check your mailbox, grill, and AC unit for dings and dents as well, as these can all be signs of hail impact.
When it comes to your roof, there are several signs of hail damage to look for. The most common of these will be small divots on your shingles, circular black areas in your shingles, and bruises or loss of granules on the shingles’ surface. While these may seem minor, they can quickly lead to leaks if they go untreated. Check for dented or dinged roof vents, flashing, and gutters as well, as these can also sustain damage from hail.
One crucial thing to keep in mind when looking for hail damage is that it doesn’t always appear in a uniform pattern. While one side of your roof may show signs of hail damage, the other side may not. This is why it is crucial to have your roof inspected by a professional who can pinpoint any areas of potential damage. By catching hail damage early, you can avoid costly repairs down the line.
Can Hail Damage to a Roof Be Repaired?
One of the most common questions homeowners ask us is if hail damage to a roof can be repaired. Most of the time the answer is yes, it can be. However, the extent of the damage will determine the course of action needed to repair it.
Typically, minor hail damage can be fixed by simply replacing several shingles, while major damage may require more than a few minor repairs. After a hailstorm, it’s essential to check your roof for damage, whether evident or not. This is because even small punctures or cracks in your roofing system can result in severe problems if left unaddressed.
Making prompt repairs can help prevent additional issues down the road. When hail damages shingles, it can penetrate the roof and cause wood rot, leaks, or even mold. You don’t want to end up with costly repairs resulting from a delay in fixing the damages.
Fortunately, many homeowners’ insurance policies cover hail damage. If your home has been hit by hail, filing a claim with your insurance company can help cover the repair costs. Be sure to document any damage, including photographic evidence, to simplify the claims process.
Roof Repair and Maintenance with Roof Maxx Mechanicsburg
Hail damage can cause significant harm to any roof, which is why it’s essential to schedule a professional roof assessment immediately after a hailstorm. At Roof Maxx Mechanicsburg, we specialize in providing top-notch roof repairs and maintenance services. We are here to help extend the life of your asphalt roof by repairing any hail damage and applying Roof Maxx if your roof qualifies.
Contact us today for your free roof assessment so we can identify any damage caused by hail and determine the best course of action to address it. Our services will help you restore your roof to its original condition and improve its durability by protecting it from further damage.
Don’t wait for your roof to deteriorate; take care of it by reaching out to Roof Maxx Mechanicsburg for a free roof assessment after a hailstorm. To schedule an appointment, contact us either online or by calling/texting 717.487.8752.
