Key Takeaways:
- Damaged shingles, whether missing or cracked, can cause leaks and other issues if not repaired promptly by a qualified professional.
- Loose or missing granules on your shingles can also indicate hail damage and should be inspected by a professional.
- Inspect your roof for dented or crushed flashing, as this can also indicate hail damage and lead to leaks if not repaired.
- Make sure to document any hail damage for insurance purposes, take pictures of the affected areas, and keep records of any repairs made.
- Iron City Construction LLC offers roofing services to customers in Hernando County, FL, and the surrounding areas.
Hail can be a significant problem for homeowners.
In fact, according to the NICB Hail Report 2021, hail is the number one weather-related problem in the United States. If you unluckily experience a hailstorm in your area, you must know how to assess hail damage on your roof. Iron City Construction LLC will discuss the signs of hail damage and provide tips for repairing your roof. We will review the different types of hail damage and what signs to check on your roof after a storm. Stay safe during the hail season!
Types of Hail Damage
1. Dented Gutters
One type of hail damage you may notice on your home’s roof is dented gutters. Although it may not sound like a big deal, dented gutters can cause water to back up and pool on your roof, leading to leaks and other damage. Additionally, dented gutters can prevent water from draining properly, leading to ice dams forming on your roof during the winter.
2. Damaged Shingles
Another type of hail damage you may notice on your home’s roof is damaged or missing shingles. Hail can cause shingles to crack, break, or even wholly tear off your roof. This type of damage can leave your roof vulnerable to water intrusion and other types of damage. If you notice any damaged or missing shingles on your roof, you must have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
3. Granule Loss
Granules are small pieces of stone or ceramic embedded in the shingles’ top layer. They help to protect the shingles from UV rays and other weather conditions. Hail can cause granules to become loose and fall off of the shingles, leaving them unprotected. It can shorten the lifespan of your shingles and make them more susceptible to damage.
4. Cracked Vent Pipes
Vent pipes are an essential part of your home’s roofing system, as they allow air to circulate under your shingles and help to prevent moisture buildup. Hail can crack or break vent pipes, which can cause leaks and other problems. If you notice any cracked or broken vent pipes on your roof, it is crucial to have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
5. Leaks
One of the most common types of hail damage is leaks. Hail can cause holes or cracks in your roof, allowing water to enter your home. It can lead to severe problems such as mold growth, wood rot, and structural damage. If leaks are in your home, a qualified roofing contractor must have them repaired as soon as possible.
6. Damaged Flashing
Flashing is a thin strip of metal used to seal around vents, chimneys, and other openings in your roof. It helps to prevent water from entering your home through these openings. Hail can damage flashing, causing it to become loose or separated from the rest of your roof. It can lead to leaks and other problems if not repaired promptly by a qualified roofing contractor.
7. Splitting
Splitting is another type of hail damage that can occur. Splitting occurs when hailstones hit your roof and cause the shingles to split into two or more pieces. This damage can be especially problematic as it leaves your roof vulnerable to water damage.
8. Bruising
Bruising is another type of hail damage that can occur. Bruising occurs when hailstones hit your roof and cause the shingles to become bruised or damaged. This damage can be especially problematic as it can lead to granule loss and make your shingles more susceptible to future attacks.
9. Blistering
Blistering is another type of hail damage that can occur. Blistering occurs when hailstones hit your roof and cause the shingles to blister or swell up. This damage can be especially problematic as it makes your shingles more susceptible to future damage and can also lead to granule loss.
10. Hole Punching
Hole punching is a type of hail damage that can occur to roofs. This damage is caused when hailstones hit the top with such force that they punch holes through the surface. Hole punching can allow water to enter the home, leading to severe problems such as mold and mildew growth.
11. Scuffing
Scuffing is another type of hail damage that can occur on your roof. It happens when the hailstones hit the shingles hard enough to scuff or mar their surface. Scuffed shingles are more likely to leak than non-scuffed ones and should be replaced as soon as possible.
Also, read our blog on inspecting the problem areas of a roof.
Signs of Hail Damage and Tips For Repairing Your Roof
1. Look for Missing or Damaged Shingles
One of the most apparent signs of hail damage on your roof is missing or damaged shingles. If your shingles are cracked, chipped, or missing, inspecting your roof for hail damage is a good idea.
2. Look for Granules in your Gutters
Another sign of hail damage to check on your roof is granules in your gutters. Granules are the small pieces of stone that make up the surface of shingles and can be knocked loose by hailstones. If you notice granules in your gutters, having your roof inspected is a good idea.
3. Inspect Your Chimney for Damage
Another area to inspect for hail damage is your chimney. Hailstones can crack or break ducts, so it’s important to check yours for any damage if you suspect that your roof has been damaged by hail.
4. Have Your Roof Inspected by a Professional
If you suspect that your roof has been damaged by hail, it’s essential to have it inspected by a roofing contractor as soon as possible.
5. Look for Leaks in Your Attic
If you have an attic, hail can cause leaks in your attic. These leaks can allow water to enter your home, leading to mold and mildew growth. If you notice any leaks in your attic, it’s essential to have them repaired as soon as possible.
6. Inspect Your Gutters and Downspouts
Hail can also damage gutters and downspouts. If you notice that your gutters or downspouts are damaged, you must have them repaired or replaced as soon as possible. Otherwise, water may not be able to drain properly from your roof, which could lead to leaks.
7. Call Your Insurance Company
You must call your insurance company immediately if you suspect roof damage by hail. They will send an adjuster to inspect your roof and determine if you need repairs or replacement.
8. Look for Damage to Roof Tiles
Another sign of hail damage is damage to roof tiles. If you notice that your roof tiles are cracked or broken, they’ve likely been damaged by hail.
9. Look for Damage to the Siding
Siding damage is another sign of hail damage on your roof. If you notice that your siding is cracked or chipped, it’s likely been damaged by hail.
10. Call a Roofing Contractor
If you suspect roof damage by hail, you must call a roofing contractor as soon as possible. A roofing contractor can assess your roof’s condition and determine whether it needs repair or replacement.
11. Schedule a Free Roof Inspection
If you think your home may have sustained hail damage, you can schedule a free inspection with a local roofing contractor.
Need Roofing Services in Hernando County, FL? No Problem!
Iron City Construction LLC is a top roofing company in Hernando County, FL. We have been in the roofing business since 2013 and are accredited, insured, and licensed, with over 2500 approved projects. Our experts will provide the best roofing services for your home or business. We’re certified, insured, and licensed. Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let us show you why we’re the best in the business.
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