What Are the Most Common Signs of Hail Damage on Your Roof?
Hailstorms can roll in fast in the Twin Cities and can be sudden and severe, leaving property owners concerned about the impact on their roofs.
There are key signs that your roof has sustained damage from hail, and the Acreage Restoration team is here to explore them, as well as how to differentiate between old and new damage and how to resolve the damage.
Differentiating Between Old & New Hail Damage on Shingles
As versatile as our seasons are here, you might already have damage that didn't come from hail. But how do you know the difference? Here are a few tips to help you out:
Color of the Granules
Fresh hail damage often exposes the asphalt layer of the shingles, revealing a darker shade than the surrounding granules. Over time, the exposed areas will weather and blend in with the rest of the roof.
Granule Accumulation
New damage is often accompanied by loose granules found in gutters or at the base of downspouts shortly after a hailstorm. If you notice a lot of granules, it's likely the damage is pretty recent.
Edges of Shingles
New damage typically has sharper, more defined edges, while older damage will appear more rounded and weathered from elemental exposure.
Assessing Potential Hail Damage From the Ground
While it's always best to have a professional inspect your roof, you can look for dents on your gutters and downspouts. There may be damage to window sills and siding, and if the storm is strong enough, even worse, damaged or missing shingles.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hail Storm
If you suspect your roof has hail damage, it's important to act quickly to prevent further issues:
- Document the Damage. Take clear photos of any visible storm damage for insurance purposes.
- Call an Expert. Contact a professional like Acreage Restoration for a fast, professional assessment and insurance claim support.
- Check for Leaks. Inspect your attic and ceilings for dark spots or wet areas indicating water damage.
- Protect Your Home. If there is significant damage, consider using a tarp to cover exposed areas until repairs can be made.
- Contact Your Insurance Company. Report the damage right to start the claims process and get repair coverage.
How Hail Impacts Different Roofing Materials
Not all roofing materials are created equally; some will hold up better than others.
- Asphalt shingles will most commonly have bruising, granule loss, and cracking.
- Metal roofing systems are more durable, but large hailstones can cause denting and damage to the protective coating.
- Tile roofs aren't as flexible as other materials and can crack and shatter if the projectile is heavy enough.
- Wood shingles can break or split, especially if they are older or have not been properly cared for.
Can Hail Damage Be Prevented or Mitigated?
While you can't control the weather, there are steps you can take to minimize potential hail damage:
- Install Impact-Resistant Shingles. Consider upgrading to shingles rated for higher impact resistance.
- Regular Maintenance. Schedule annual inspections and keep up on repairs to address minor issues before they become major problems.
- Trim Overhanging Branches. Reduce the risk of additional damage by trimming branches that could break and fall onto your roof during a hailstorm.
Protect Your Investment with Professional Roofing Services
Hail damage can be devastating and compromise the integrity of your roof, leading to costly repairs. You don't have to go it alone-Acreage Restoration is here to help! Our team has been taking care of the Twin Cities for over ten years, and we are happy to provide full storm damage repair and insurance claims support.
At Acreage Restoration, we don't just stop at roofing. We also provide top-notch services for replacement windows, gutters, and siding. Whether it's a minor repair or a complete roof replacement, we've got you covered.
If you'd like to know more or need to schedule an appointment, send us a message online or you can give our Zimmerman office a call at 612-401-5911 today.