How to Prevent, Identify & Fix Hail Damage
Homeowners are always worried about the condition of their roofs whenever a storm comes by. Hail is one of the most severe weather hazards, and with some knowledge about detecting hail damage, preventing it, and repairing hail damage can save a lot of time and money. Whether you've just been the victim of a hailstorm or are planning ahead, it’s important to understand how hail can damage your home.
Hail Damage: What Causes It?
Hailstoness are ice chunks that form when thunderstorms carry water droplets high into the atmosphere, causing them to freeze. The size and velocity of these stones can cause significant damage to roofs, especially when combined with high winds. Hailstones larger than 1 inch (the size of a quarter) can damage asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and other materials, structures around your home. Have you had your home or commercial business inspected by a professional? Your roof is the foundation of your home, and protecting is very important.
Hail Damage on Your Roof
Identifying hail damage early is crucial to maintaining your roof’s integrity. While hail damage can be difficult to detect immediately, here are some signs to look out for:
1. Dents or Cracks on Asphalt Shingles
Hail impact leaves dents or cracks on asphalt shingles.
2. Granule Loss
Strong hailstones can knock loose granules, exposing the roof to UV rays and other elements.
3. Cracks or Fractures in Roofing Materials
Larger hailstones can cause cracks or fractures, sometimes leading to pinholes in the roof.
4. Dented Roof Flashing and Vents
Hail can damage the soft metals around roof flashing, vents, and skylights.
5. Debris Around the Home
If hailstones were large enough to dent your roof, you’ll likely see marks on outdoor surfaces, such as gutters, windows, and patio furniture.
How to Protect Your Roof from Hail Damage
While you can’t control the weather, there are steps you can take to minimize hail damage:
1. Use Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials
Consider using roofing materials like asphalt shingles or metal roofing, which are built to withstand harsh weather conditions.
2. Schedule Frequent Roofing Inspections
Have your roof inspected regularly to catch minor issues before they become major problems.
3. Install Hail Guards on Roof Penetrations
Shield vulnerable areas like vents, skylights, and chimneys with impact-resistant materials.
4. Cut Low-Hanging Trees
Trim branches near your home to prevent them from becoming projectiles during a hailstorm.
Step-by-Step Guide to Inspect Hail Damage
After a hailstorm, it’s crucial to check for damage. Here’s how you can do it safely:
1. Safety Tip
Do not climb on the roof unless you’re certain it is safe. Roofs can be slippery after a storm, and hail can leave behind ice. Call iRGO ROOFING our professionals are trained to inspect roofs and determine the severity of your roof.
2. Check from the Ground
Inspect from the ground for dents, missing shingles, or damage to roof flashing, vents, and gutters, crack on your vinyl siding.
3. Check Other Parts of Your Property
Inspect your car, patio furniture, windows, and siding for hail damage. Damage to these items is often an indicator that your roof might have been affected as well.
Hail Damage Insurance
Understanding your insurance coverage is crucial when dealing with hail damage. Most homeowners' insurance policies cover hail damage, but the level of coverage depends on your policy type:
1. Actual Cash Value (ACV) Policy
This policy pays for the value of your roof today, excluding depreciation. It can help offset some of the replacement costs for older roofs.
2. Replacement Cost Value (RCV) Policy
This policy covers the cost to replace your roof with a new one of similar quality, without factoring in depreciation. RCV is typically the best choice for homeowners.
Are you unsure, no problem. We will guide you through every step. We pride ourselves on answering any questions related to your roof.
3. Document the Damage
Take detailed photos of the damage and create an itemized list of everything including leaks in your home. This will allow us to understand the problem on your roof.
When to Call a Professional
While minor damage may be noticeable to homeowners, it’s always best to call a professional iRGO Roofing is trained to provide you a detailed inspection. With our expertise we have the tools and knowledge to evaluate the damage safely and provide an accurate estimate for repairs.Hail damage can pose a serious threat to the integrity of your roof, but with regular inspections, preventive maintenance, and prompt repairs, you can minimize its impact. If you suspect hail damage, don't delay—contact iRGO ROOFING our team of experts will assess the situation and ensure your roof is protected.
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