The Impact of Hailstorms on Residential Roofing with Louisiana Roof Crafters. Hailstorms are a natural weather phenomenon that can have a significant impact on residential roofing systems. While hailstorms are relatively common in some regions, the damage they can cause to roofs should not be underestimated. In this article, we’ll explore the impact of hailstorms on residential roofing, including the types of damage that can occur, signs to watch for, and steps to take if your roof is affected.
Types of Roofing Damage Caused by Hailstorms:
Hailstones can range in size from small pellets to large golf balls, and the extent of damage to your roof depends on the size and density of the hail, as well as the roofing material. Here are some common types of damage that hailstorms can cause to residential roofs:
Dented or Cracked Shingles: Hailstones can hit asphalt shingles with force, causing dents or cracks. These damaged shingles may no longer provide effective protection against water infiltration.
Granule Loss: The impact of hail can dislodge the protective granules on asphalt shingles. Granule loss can lead to premature aging of the shingles, reducing their effectiveness.
Exposed Underlayment: When hail damages shingles, it can expose the underlayment beneath them. This underlayment is not designed to be a primary barrier against water and can lead to leaks if it becomes exposed.
Damaged Flashing: Hail can damage the metal flashing around roof penetrations, such as chimneys and vents, compromising their ability to prevent water from entering the roof.
Cracked Tiles: Hail can crack or break clay or concrete roof tiles, leaving the roof vulnerable to leaks.
Dented or Punctured Metal Roofing: Even durable metal roofing can be dented or punctured by large hailstones, potentially leading to leaks.
Signs of Hail Damage:
After a hailstorm, it’s essential to inspect your roof for signs of damage. While some damage may be immediately visible, other issues may not manifest until later. Here are some signs of hail damage to look for:
Dents or Cracks: Check for dents, cracks, or punctures on your roofing material, including shingles, tiles, or metal panels.
Granule Loss: Look for excessive granules in your gutters and downspouts, as this can indicate granule loss from your shingles.
Exposed Underlayment: If you notice exposed underlayment where shingles have been damaged, this is a sign of hail damage.
Damaged Flashing: Inspect the metal flashing around roof penetrations for dents or damage.
Interior Water Stains: Ceiling stains or water drips inside your home can be signs of roof leaks caused by hail damage.
Steps to Take After Hail Damage:
If you suspect that your roof has been damaged by a hailstorm, it’s essential to take the following steps:
Document the Damage: Take clear photographs of the damage, both up close and from a distance. These photos will be useful for insurance claims and for showing roofing contractors.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Reach out to your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. Provide them with the documentation and any relevant information about the hailstorm.
Schedule a Professional Inspection: Hire a reputable roofing contractor to perform a thorough inspection of your roof. They can assess the extent of the damage and provide you with a detailed report.
Temporary Repairs: If the damage is severe and you have active leaks, consider making temporary repairs to prevent further water damage. Cover exposed areas with tarps or plastic sheeting until permanent repairs can be made.
Review Your Insurance Coverage: Understand your insurance policy and what it covers. Hail damage is typically covered under most homeowners’ insurance policies, but deductibles and coverage limits may apply.
Obtain Repair Estimates: Obtain repair estimates from roofing contractors. These estimates will be helpful when working with your insurance company to determine the cost of repairs or replacement.
Roofing Material Considerations:
The type of roofing material you have can impact how it responds to hailstorms:
Asphalt Shingles: Asphalt shingles are vulnerable to hail damage, especially if the hailstones are large or the shingles are older. Impact-resistant shingles are available for added protection.
Metal Roofing: Metal roofing is more resistant to hail damage than some other materials. However, it can still be dented or punctured by large hailstones.
Tile Roofing: Tile roofing can be durable, but it can crack or break when struck by hail, especially if the tiles are older or brittle.
Conclusion:
Hailstorms can have a significant impact on residential roofing systems, causing damage that ranges from minor dents to severe leaks. It’s essential to inspect your roof for damage after a hailstorm and take prompt action to address any issues. Whether you need repairs or a complete roof replacement, working with experienced roofing professionals can help ensure your home is protected from further damage, maintaining its structural integrity and preventing costly repairs in the long run.
Call Louisiana Roof Crafters at 225-238-6396 for more information. We service areas in Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Hammond, Covington, Mandeville, Slidell, and New Orleans, LA.
