Signs Of A Hail Damaged Roof

Hail damage to a roof is a common issue that should be addressed immediately. The roof is a vital component of any building, and it is important to keep it in good condition to ensure the safety and security of your property. While hail damage can occur to any type of roofing material, asphalt shingle, slate tile, and metal roofs are the most susceptible. Below, we’ll discuss the signs of hail damage for each of these types of roofing materials.

Asphalt shingles are a popular roofing material due to their durability and versatility. They are, however, prone to damage from hail, foot traffic, blister rash, or storm damage. It is important to be able to distinguish between hail damage and other types of damage. After a hailstorm, an obvious sign of hail damage is visible on the metal flashing bordering the roof. The flashing may show a series of dents in the material. The area around downspouts and in the gutters may also show evidence of mineral granules that have become detached from the asphalt shingles or rolled roofing. The direction of the hailstorm is another indicator of where the most damage may be apparent on the roof. The area where the granules have been affected the most will expose the shingle substrate. The asphalt material may also show signs of round-shaped, tear-drop shaped, or pitted spots where the hail impacted the roof. Damaged or bruised shingles, if not replaced, will eventually become water absorbent funneling water to the underlayment and decking beneath the roofing material. Cracks within the asphalt shingles caused by hail can eventually lead to water leakage.

Slate roofs are another popular choice in roofing due to their beauty, aesthetic appeal, and longevity. Hail damage to slate tile material may show signs of punctures or fractures within the material. The slate isn’t totally broken but has a series of fractures from the hail’s impact. Holes created by hail are crisp, clean and have sharp edges. Slate tile may also have broken corners or edges denoting hail damage. Identifying damage to slate is relatively easy, especially if the hail is large in size creating holes, pits, pockmarks, cracks, and breaks. If your home has deteriorated or soft slate material, hail damage is more common since the tiles are fragile. If your property has a “side-lap” installation style—the roof has a single layer of material—if it’s damaged to the point water can enter through the slate, it will create leakage problems beneath the material.

Metal roofs are durable with a long life span, but even metal roofing material may show signs of hail damage. After a hailstorm, the metal coating may show signs of damage. The “scouring” effect is much like that of a series of scratch marks along the panels that results in the removal of the coating material. Metal roofs are affected by hail with small, medium, or large dents depending on the size of the hail and the speed it was traveling when impacting the surface. The pocking or denting of the panels can lead to rust, resulting in deterioration of the affected metal panel or panels.

After a hailstorm, it’s important to have your roof inspected by a professional roofing contractor. They have the experience to look for damage that can lead to potential problems resulting in a leaking roof. The contractor can also advise you on the best steps to take to repair or replace damaged roofing material. It is crucial to have your damaged roof repaired immediately because a roof in poor condition can lead to more problems in the future. Delaying the repair can cost you more money in the long run.

In conclusion, hail damage to a roof is a common problem that should not be ignored. It can lead to more problems in the future such as water leakage and further damage to the structure of the roof. It is important to have your damaged roof repaired immediately by a professional roofing contractor. Exterior Home Solutions LLC, located in Richmond VA, offers roofing repair services for all types of roofing materials. If you need help with your hail-damaged roof, contact us today to schedule an appointment.