hail damage outlines on roof

Mother Nature can be as dangerous as she is unpredictable. Severe storms are not only personal safety hazards – these weather emergencies can seriously damage your home or business. While tornadoes and hurricanes get the most publicity, hail storms can be a major concern as well. Let’s talk about the damage hail can cause to your roof, and the steps you should take if that happens to you.  

Understanding How Hail Damage Happens During a Storm

When hailstones hit your roof, damage can occur. How bad that damage is varies depending on the size and density of the hailstones, the durability of your roof’s materials, and the angle and force of impact from the hailstones. 

Asphalt shingles are particularly susceptible to hail damage, because the impact of hailstones can knock off the granules that protect the shingle's surface from UV radiation and water damage. This exposes the underlying asphalt layer, making the roof more vulnerable to degradation and leaks over time.

Hailstones can also crack or fracture roofing materials such as wood, clay, or slate tiles. These cracks may not be immediately apparent but can worsen over time, leading to leaks and structural damage if left unaddressed and shortening the lifespan of your roof.

Once your roof’s integrity is compromised, it’s easy for water to leak into your home, which can result in water stains on your ceilings and walls, rotten wood components, and mold growth. 

How to Identify Roof Hail Damage

You’ll need a thorough inspection to identify hail damage on a roof, preferably by a professional roofing contractor who is experienced in assessing storm damage. 

There are still some signs you can look for to identify potential hail damage. Start by inspecting the gutters and downspouts for any dents, cracks, or dings. Then, carefully examine the roof surface for signs of damage. Look for dents, cracks, bruising, or missing granules on asphalt shingles. Pay attention to areas where hail impact might be more severe, such as valleys, ridges, and near chimneys or vents. Hail damage can cause the flashing around chimneys and vents to become bent, cracked, or detached. Look out for loose or missing shingle, tiles, or other roofing components. 

Hail can also damage metal roofing materials, such as aluminum or steel panels. Look for dents or dimples in the metal surface, particularly on flat or exposed areas of the roof.

Inspect your attic or crawlspace for any signs of water damage, such as water stains, dampness, or mold growth. 

Steps to Take After a Storm

If you notice any signs of hail damage during your inspection, it's essential to have a professional roofing contractor assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate repairs or replacement. Always document the damage with photographs and contact your insurance provider to determine if the damage is covered under your policy.

If you notice water damage on your ceilings or walls, you need to take quick action to prevent mold growth, which can start in as soon as 24 hours. Call your local DRYmedic for help with emergency water damage restoration services. 

DRYmedic is Here to Help

If hail strikes your house. DRYmedic is here to help. Our team of restoration professionals have helped homeowners and business owners recover from storms including hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and hail storms. Call us today at (616) 281-8901 for post-storm cleanup and damage restoration services.