Hailstorms are common in the United States and can be pretty destructive. Hail stones cause noticeable damage to asphalt shingles, fascia boards, rain gutters, and other parts of your roof. It is crucial to identify and fix these damages quickly before they become more severe. If you own a house in a hail-prone area, this article can be a helpful guide for you.
At Excel Renovation, we understand the importance of a sturdy and durable roof, and that’s why we share our knowledge to help you make well-informed decisions. This guide will discuss the signs of hail damage on asphalt shingle roofs along with pictures and suggested steps to control and repair the damage.
Signs And Photos Of Hail Damage To Asphalt Shingles
Identifying hail damage on asphalt shingles can be difficult as it cannot be seen from the ground. To find any small cracks or holes, you will need to climb onto the roof yourself or hire a professional. Neglecting the damage can result in the shingles deteriorating, which weakens the structure of your roof and could potentially lead to water damage in your home.
Here are some of the most common signs of hail damage to look out for:
Marks or Cracks
After a hailstorm, check your shingles for marks or cracks. Hailstones can leave tiny cracks and spots on the shingles, which weaken the shingles and lead to granule loss, water damage, and fast deterioration.
Granule Loss
Shingle granules serve as the final protective layer on asphalt shingles. They are made of a unique blend of ceramics, copper granules, and other minerals to protect the shingles from UV rays, algae growth, and different types of deterioration. Hail can cause these granules to loosen and fall off. This can expose your roof to weather damage, UV rays, and premature aging. Look for shingle granules in the gutters and around the downspout splash blocks.
Indentations or Bruises
Hail can leave indentations or bruises on your shingles that can be difficult to spot. These areas may appear as minor marks, cuts, or changes in the color of the shingles, but this is exactly what hail damage looks like on asphalt shingles.
Holes
Hail can create holes in the shingles, and some sizes can even cut through the underlayment and sheathing, reaching the rafters and attic. These holes can allow pests, debris, and water to enter your home and cause all sorts of damage. If you have a two-story house, you can try to look through the windows on the second floor and look for any holes in the shingles.
Overall, these signs all signify hail damage to asphalt shingles. But hailstones can also harm the other parts of your roof, and you should look out for those signs as well.
Signs That Your Roofing System Is Damaged By Hail
Your roofing system is made up of more than just asphalt shingles. There are many more parts exposed to harsh weather conditions that can easily be damaged by hailstones. For example, flashing, skylights, vents, and gutters.
Here are the common signs of hail damage you can find on your roof:
Damaged Flashing
Flashing is the strip of metal that covers the joints on your roof, such as the valleys and areas where the roof meets a chimney or skylight. Hail can dent or damage the flashing, causing it to easily develop cuts and cracks that allow water and pests to slip behind the metal and cause damage.
Dented Or Leaking Gutters
Hailstones can dent rain gutters and make them look unsightly and reduce their lifespan. These dents and cuts can quickly turn into larger cracks if left alone. In severe cases, hailstorms will cause gutters to pull away from the roofline and sag. This damage causes rainwater to leak behind the gutters instead of flowing down to the downspout. Without being guided in a certain direction this water can damage your siding, foundation, basement, and lawn as it drips down the sides.
Damaged Vents
You can also identify roof hail damage by looking at the attic roof vents. If they look damaged or broken, it means they have been struck by hailstones. Roof vents are exhaust vents or fans that play a vital role in allowing air to circulate through the home and attic. Damage to these vents leads to poor ventilation within the home, moisture buildup, and mold growth.
Cracked Skylights
If you have skylights on your roof, they can be particularly vulnerable to hail damage. Hailstones can crack or shatter the glass, which is dangerous for anyone inside. Without immediate action, water will slip inside through these tiny gaps.
Interior Damage
If you notice water stains, chipping paint, flaking, or cracks on your ceiling or walls, it may be a sign that hail has caused significant damage to the shingles, underlayment, and wood, and that water has now made its way to the ceiling.
If your roof is damaged by hail, it’s crucial to act quickly to prevent further damage and protect your home. So let’s take a look at some easy steps that you can take to contain and repair hail damage.
How Do You Control & Repair Hail Damage On Your Roof?
Hail damage to your roof can cause serious problems for your home, including water damage, mold growth, and structural instability. It’s critical to take immediate action to contain the damage and protect your home from further harm.
Here are some immediate actions that you can take on an individual level :
- Contain Leaks: If you notice any leaks or water damage in your home, use buckets or towels to contain the water and prevent further damage.
- Keep Important Stuff Safe: Move any essential items or electronics away from areas that are at risk of water damage. This will help protect your belongings and prevent further damage.
- Call a Reputable and Experienced Local Roofing Contractor: Contact a reputable and experienced local roofing contractor as soon as possible. They can help you assess the damage and recommend the appropriate repairs.
At Excel Renovation, we offer prompt and reliable storm damage roof repair services. If you live in Minneapolis, or the surrounding areas near the Twin Cities, we can get your roof back in shape, starting with a free consultation.
Reliable & Cost-Effective Roofing Services For Storm Damage
At Excel Renovation, we understand the importance of addressing storm damage to your home. If you suspect hail damage on your shingle roof, we have the most trusted and experienced team to take care of it.
Here’s what we offer:
Roof Tarping: If your roof has sustained significant damage, we can provide temporary roof tarping to cover the cracks and holes on your roof.
Hail Damage Roof Inspection and Estimate: We have the most skilled and reliable experts who can give you an accurate roof condition report and estimate on the required repairs.
Roof Repairs: We offer a wide range of roof repair services to address any type of storm damage. We work with high-quality materials and advanced techniques for durable and appealing results.
We are here to help you protect your home and restore your roof to its full functionality. Call us at (612) 439-5005 for a free consultation.
