Hailstorms can cause significant damage to your roof, leaving behind issues that may not be immediately obvious to homeowners. After a hailstorm, it’s essential to perform a hail damage roof inspection to evaluate the extent of the damage and prevent any long-term issues.
Hail can compromise the integrity of your roof, leading to leaks, weakened structural components, and costly repairs if left unaddressed.
Why Hail Damage Roof Inspections Are Critical
Preventing Further Damage
Hailstorms, as well, result in immediate damage, but hail damage to your roof may yet worsen over a period of time if not treated. A hail damage roof inspection will assist in determining both obvious and hidden issues that can result in leaks, mold, and roof structural damage.
With the knowledge of these issues ahead of time, you can prevent them from becoming more damaging and costly issues down the road.
Should the damage go untreated, water could seep into your home and result in ceiling, wall, and insulation damage. Hail damage roof inspections guarantee these issues are identified and that your home is not put through further damage.
Insurance and Claims
Many homeowners rely on their insurance to pay for the cost of repairs after there has been a hailstorm. However, to make a successful insurance claim, you need to have proof of the damage. A qualified hail damage roof inspection can provide a detailed report of the damage, and this is where a successful insurance claim succeeds or fails. Without getting this inspection completed, you might end up losing out on claiming the full amount that is yours.
Having a professional make an inspection for roof hail damage also ensures that nothing is missed. Most insurance companies will insist on an inspection by a licensed roofer to verify the extent of the damage before they will approve a claim.
Common Hail Damage Issues Found During a Roof Inspection
Dented or Cracked Shingles
One of the most common issues identified during a hail damage roof inspection is dented or cracked shingles. When hailstones hit the shingles, they can cause small dents or cracks that are not always visible to the naked eye. These cracks can expose the underlying layers of the roof to water, leading to leaks and other damage over time.
In a roof hail damage inspection, roofing experts will look for signs of damage that may compromise the roof’s ability to protect your home. They will also check for areas where the shingles have been displaced, which can lead to gaps where water can enter.
Granule Loss from Asphalt Shingles
Another common problem with asphalt shingles after a hailstorm is granule loss. Granules are the protective coating on asphalt shingles that help prevent UV damage and provide weather resistance.
Hailstones can cause these granules to dislodge, which can lead to the degradation of the shingles. Without the granules, the shingles become more vulnerable to further damage from the sun and weather, shortening the lifespan of the roof.
A roof inspection for hail damage will focus on checking for areas where granules have been knocked off, as this is a key indicator of damage. Homeowners may also notice granules in their gutters, which is a sign that their roof needs immediate attention.
Cracked or Broken Tiles (for Tile Roofs)
For homes with tile roofing, hail can cause cracked or broken tiles. These tiles are more fragile than other materials and are often the first to show visible signs of damage during a hailstorm. Cracked or broken tiles not only affect the appearance of the roof but can also create gaps that allow water to enter.
During a hail damage roof inspection, the contractor will inspect the tiles for any cracks or breaks that could lead to leaks. Tile roof damage often requires prompt repair to avoid water infiltration that can damage the underlying roofing system.
Roof Deck and Structural Damage
Impact on the Roof Decking
While hail typically affects the exterior covering of the roof, it can also injure the roof decking, the structural foundation of your roof. Big enough hailstones can dent or crack the decking, compromising the entire structure of the roof.
Hail damage roof inspection will also check the roof decking for any marks of impact. If the decking is impaired, this can lead to other serious issues such as leaks, water damage, and mold, which might impact your entire house structure.
Structural Compromise and Water Damage
In more severe cases, hail damage will compromise the structural integrity of your roof. If the hail is bad enough to break the decking or other structural elements, water will flow into the house and produce leaks. This below-ground damage tends not to be easily seen, which makes professional inspection so important.
When conducting a roof hail damage inspection, professionals will search for any evidence of structural failure, including sagging regions, ceiling water stains, or compromised materials. These are the telltale signs that the roof may not be doing its job of holding back the elements and protecting your home.
Hidden Damage: How to Spot the Signs
Surface Damage vs. Hidden Damage
Hail damage is not always apparent on the outside of your roof. Even though you can observe shattered shingles or missing granules, other damage might be more difficult to find. This includes damage to the roof deck on the inside or where the roof structure has been compromised, but the damage cannot be visually observed from the outside.
A roof hail damage professional inspection will determine surface and hidden damage. Roof inspectors are trained to find issues not easily visible, such as inside leaks or structural damage, so all potential issues are detected.
How to Inspect a Roof for Hail Damage
Though it should be left to the experts, there are some steps homeowners can take to inspect for potential damage following a storm. First, look at the roof visually for cracked, dented, or broken shingles, missing granules, and broken tiles. You can also check your gutters for granules that have been dislodged from the storm.
But beware while examining your roof. If your roof is steep or inaccessible, it’s better to leave the job for the professionals to prevent accidents. A professional roofer will inspect your roof fully and give a better estimate of damage.
The Role of Professional Roof Inspectors in Hail Damage Detection
Expert Techniques for Roof Hail Damage Inspection
Professional roof inspectors use specialized techniques to detect hail damage that may not be visible to the untrained eye. They have the tools and experience to thoroughly assess the roof, checking both the surface and the underlying structure for damage.
A professional inspector will examine the roof’s decking, insulation, and structural components, ensuring that any hidden damage is addressed. They can also provide detailed reports and photographs to support insurance claims, making the process smoother for homeowners.
Why a Professional Roof Hail Damage Inspection is Necessary
A roof hail damage inspection performed by a professional ensures that all aspects of the roof are thoroughly checked and that no damage goes unnoticed. Experts can identify issues early on and recommend the best course of action to repair the damage and prevent future problems.
Conclusion
After a hailstorm, it’s crucial to schedule a roof hail damage inspection as soon as possible. The most common issues found during these inspections include cracked shingles, granule loss, roof deck damage, and hidden leaks that may not be immediately visible. By catching these problems early, homeowners can prevent costly repairs and protect the integrity of their home.
While homeowners can do some basic roof inspections, it’s always best to consult with a professional roofing contractor to get an accurate assessment of the damage. Professional roofers have the skills and tools to perform a thorough hail damage roof inspection, ensuring your roof stays in good condition for years to come.