Introduction
Hailstorms aren’t just frightening; they can also lead to extensive roof damage, demanding immediate attention. While a few broken shingles and a dented flashing here and there may look superficial, ignoring that damage can lead to leaks and possible mold growth. If you live in an area that experiences hail often and you want to be prepared for when it happens, this blog goes over all the signs and how to fix the damage caused by hailstorms.
Heavy Rains & Pelting Ice: How To Repair Your Damaged Roof
Let’s say you’re sitting in your living room, curled up in a blanket as a storm rages outside. Suddenly, you hear loud pelting sounds from the roof and walls. The thunderstorm has probably escalated to a hailstorm now, and this could severely damage your roof.
Here is a complete guide on what to do in this situation.
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Wait Out The Storm
Whenever there’s a storm, you should stay indoors where it’s safe, no matter how much you’re tempted to go out and take a look at the damage. Stay patient and wait till the hail has reduced to a drizzle or stopped completely to assess the roof.
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Inspect The House For Signs Of Damage
While you wait, take a walk through your home to look for indicators of water damage. This can look like water stains on the ceiling, leaks, or musty smells. If you notice any of these things, it’s a sure sign that moisture has compromised your structure.
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Assess The Roof From Ground Level
Remember, roofs are slippery and treacherous right after a storm, so it’s better to avoid climbing up there. Visually assess the roof from the ground, looking for damaged shingles or dinged-up gutters to get an idea of the extent of the damage.
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Document The Damage
As with any other kind of property damage, it’s better to have a clear record of everything. Snap pictures and videos of your gutters, vents, shingles, and even some of the siding to show your roofers and insurance providers.
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Call Your Insurance Provider
Next, without wasting time, contact your insurance company and share the evidence of the damage with them. Quick action may help you secure your insurance claim so that you won’t have to pay too much for roof repairs.
- Schedule A Roof Inspection
Once that’s done, have a reliable roofing contractor show up and assess your damaged roof. This can help identify even the most subtle of roof damages and can back your insurance claim.
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Roof Repairs
If the damage isn’t too bad, your roofer may suggest minor repairs like replacing a handful of shingles and upgrading the flashing. But if the roof damage is too extensive, you may need to have the whole thing replaced to restore the integrity of your house.
Signs Of Roof Damage After Hailstorms: What To Look Out For
Okay, but are the damages always that easy to spot? While some types of damage, like missing shingles, are obvious to see, other things, like dented ventilation or cracked skylights, may not be that clear to spot. If you want to learn how to spot roof damage from hail, take a look at the list below.
Clues that your roof is compromised by hailstones.
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Dented Downspouts
Those little balls of ice are no joke. They can easily dent solid metals. Look at the joints and even the long pipes to ensure that there aren’t any signs of dents or bends. If there are, you should have them fixed soon to prevent slow drainage and possible moisture damage.
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Damaged Shingles
If your shingles are cracked, warped, or missing altogether, it’s a sign that your roof has been compromised. Schedule a roof inspection immediately to save your roof.
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Compromised Attics
Once the storm has passed, take a careful look at the attic. If you spot stains, smell dampness, or notice leaks in the attic, your roof has been compromised and must be repaired as soon as possible.
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Damaged Skylights
Is your skylight alright? If you see small cracks in the glass or if the flashing is damaged, you could be looking at future leaks. Have a technician fix the issue right away to save your home.
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Shingle Granules
Finally, if you notice your gutters have a lot of granules, it’s a sign of roof damage. This leads to the dual risk of leaks and clogged drains. Have a roofer fix it now.
Conclusion
Hailstones can easily damage your roof, leading to leaks, mold growth, and lowered property value. Whenever you see things like leaky attics or damaged vents after a hailstorm, immediately take pictures and contact your insurance provider as well as your roofing contractor to have the issues resolved. Never delay roof repairs, as this small neglect can lead to massive leaks before you know it.
FAQs
When do I need to replace my roof?
If the damage is structural or spreads to over 25% of your roof, it’s better to have it replaced.
What is the best roofing material against hail damage?
Impact-resistant asphalt shingles and metal roofing are best against hailstorms.
How long do roof repairs take after hail damage?
For minor repairs, it’d only take a handful of hours. But for major replacements, expect a few days or even weeks.
