As a roofing contractor, you’re likely familiar with the aftermath of a hail storm. But what exactly is hail, and why is it important to assess damage after such an event?
What Exactly is Hail?
Hail is made up of blocks of ice that form in thunderclouds during storms that produce severe weather. The ice crystals are then carried by powerful updrafts of air inside the clouds until they become too heavy to stay afloat. As these hailstones fall to Earth, they can grow in size depending on the storm’s power.
When Hail Strikes, Call a Professional Roofing Contractor
Hail storms are no joke. The pounding roar of the hail, the way it cuts through the air and slams into a home, can be both terrifying and damaging. One of the biggest victims of damaging hail is the roof. Clients might be tempted to handle their roof inspection on their own, however, a professional roofing contractor will ensure that any destruction caused by hail is both identified and fixed efficiently.
Hail storms can cause severe damage to roofs if left unaddressed. Damage could range from broken shingles or tiles, exposed nails, punctured flashing, and more, all of which can leave homes exposed to water intrusion or other problems in the future. A professional roofing contractor will have the experience necessary to locate any hidden damage that may not be visible from ground level and repair it quickly and efficiently before it becomes a bigger problem.
With specialized tools, experience, and knowledge of local codes and regulations, roofing contractors can do the job faster than if a client tried tackling it on their own – plus, roofing contractors have access to materials that may not be available for individual homeowners at regular stores or hardware shops.
Signs of Hail Damage to Look For
When evaluating a roof after a storm, there are multiple signs of hail damage to a roof. These include:
Dents and Bruises on the Metal Flashing or Shingles
The most visible sign of hail damage is dents or bruises in metal flashing along the edges of your roof or on your shingles. These can range in size from small indentations to full-on cracks. In severe cases, these can even puncture through the material itself. Whatever their size or shape, they are indicators that your roof has been damaged by hail and needs repair work as soon as possible before any further harm can be done.
Loose, Damaged, or Missing Shingles
Wind damage shingles are easy to spot since they have moved from their original placement on the roof. During tumultuous and violent hail storms, more extensive damage may happen with missing or broken tiles, which must be addressed instantly to prevent rainwater from leaking into your client’s house.
Granule Loss on the Shingles
Many asphalt shingle roofs incorporate granules as part of their design, providing added protection from UV rays and other elements like rain and snow. If hailstones make contact with these granules during a storm, they may dislodge them from the shingles and expose them to further damage over time if not replaced immediately. Granule loss is one of the more apparent signs of hail damage roof shingles which should not be overlooked.
Cracked Seals Around Vents, Skylights, and Chimneys
Even if no direct physical damage is present around vents, skylights, and chimneys after a storm, they should still be inspected thoroughly due to possible cracked seals that could go unnoticed until it’s too late. Suppose there is any suspicion that seals have been compromised. In that case, it’s best practice for contractors to replace them immediately to avoid costly repair bills down the line due to water penetration into these home areas.
Assessing Possible Structural Damage from Hail Storms
The aftermath of a hail storm can be devastating for homeowners and property owners alike. Not only can the wind, rain, and hail cause damage to your home’s exterior, but it is equally important to assess the possible structural damage from hail storms.
Checking For Water Intrusion Inside the Home
If your client’s roof has been compromised by hail, you may find pools of water in areas like closets and exterior walls. To check for water intrusion inside the home, carefully inspect each room and look for signs of dampness or discoloration on walls or ceilings. If you see any wet spots or stains, this could be an indicator that water is leaking through your roof. Additionally, a musty smell or a change in temperature in certain areas are other telltale signs that there might be something wrong with the roof.
Examining The Attic for Any Indications Of Leaks Or Holes In The Roof Decking
Once you have completed your inspection inside the home for signs of water intrusion due to hail storm damage, it’s time to turn your attention to the attic space and examine it closely for possible leaks or holes in the roof decking. Look around for any visible signs of deterioration, such as sagging boards, blistering paint, or shingle granules scattered about on the floor – all indicators that something may not be right with the roof decking structure. Also, watch for dark patches on rafters, which could indicate where rainwater may have already been collected.
How to Prevent Future Hail-Related Damage
When hail storms cause damage to roofs, it’s essential to assess the damage and make the right recommendations to prevent future hail-related issues.
Regular Maintenance Checks with a Professional Roofer
As a professional roofing contractor, you can help identify whether any existing damage needs repair or replacement. Roofing clients must know that regular maintenance checks with a professional are necessary to ensure no issues are present. This will also provide peace of mind knowing that a professional has inspected the roof and determined that everything is in good condition.
Replacing Older Shingles with Impact-Resistant Products
Another way to protect a client’s roof from hail related damage is by recommending replacing older shingles with impact-resistant products rated for maximum protection against hail. This will significantly reduce the chance of further damage being done by future storms and provide an extra layer of protection against the elements. It’s important to note that these impact-resistant products may cost more upfront, but they will save your client money in the long run by protecting their investment and preventing further costly repairs or replacements down the road.
Investing in Quality Gutters and Downspouts
The last recommendation you can make when assessing storm roof damage after a hail storm is to invest in quality gutters and downspouts that direct water away from the roof and foundation. These systems help divert rainwater away from vulnerable areas of the property and reduce moisture buildup on roofs—which can cause additional problems like mold growth, wood rot, and even sagging ceilings over time. Investing in quality gutters and downspouts will increase the safety of your client’s property and its overall value over time.
Are you searching for roofing materials for your next construction project? Look no further than SRS Building Products! We offer various roofing materials, from asphalt shingles to metal and cedar shake. Our products are designed with superior craftsmanship and durability in mind, meaning you can be sure that your roof will last for years. Plus, our prices are competitive, so you know you’re getting a great deal. Don’t delay – order your roofing material from SRS Building Products today!
