Hailstorms are relatively common in the United States, with some areas experiencing them more frequently than others. According to the National Weather Service, the states with the most hailstorms occur in the Great Plains region, which is known for volatile weather patterns. Hailstorms can also occur in other parts of the country, including the Midwest, the Southeast, and the Northeast.
Hailstorms can cause USD$1 billion in damage to buildings, vehicles, and crops. The most costly hailstorm in US history occurred in St. Louis, Missouri, in 2001. The storm produced baseball-sized hail that caused an estimated USD$2 billion in damage. One of the most common devastating effects of hailstorms is roof damage.
What Is Hail?
Hail is precipitation that consists of balls or irregular lumps of ice. Hailstones can range in size from small peas to grapefruits, and they can cause significant damage to property, including roofs.
The extent of hail damage to roofing systems depends on the size and intensity of the hailstorm. Hailstones that are one inch in diameter or larger can cause dents and dings in shingles, while hailstones that are two inches in diameter or larger can break shingles and expose the roof deck. In some cases, hail can even cause the roof to collapse. Homeowners can hire experienced roofing contractors to fix hail roof damage.
Roof Damages Caused By Hail
In addition to dents and dings, some other signs of hail damage to a roof include the following:
- Missing Shingles
If a hailstone is large enough, it can knock a shingle completely off the roof. Shingles that are cracked or broken. Hailstones can also crack or break shingles, leaving them loose or hanging from the roof.
- Shingles That Lost Granules
The granules on asphalt shingles help to protect them from the elements. If a hailstone knocks off the granules, the shingle will be more vulnerable to sun, wind, and rain damage.
- Discolored Shingles
Hailstones can also discolor shingles, leaving them with a black or brown spot. Shingles that are soft to the touch. If a shingle is soft to the touch, it is likely damaged by hail.
Other Hail-Related Roof Problems
In addition to these physical damages, hail can also cause many other problems with your roof, which include the following:
- Reduce Your Roof’s Lifespan
Even if your roof does not appear to be damaged after a hailstorm, the impact of the hailstones can weaken the shingles and shorten the lifespan of your roof.
- Increase Risk Of Leaks
If hailstones damage your shingles or flashing, they can create openings in your roof that allow water to leak. This can lead to water damage to your home, including mold and mildew growth.
- Increase Energy Bills
If hailstones damage your roof, they can make your home less energy efficient. This is because the damaged shingles will not be able to insulate your home as well as they did before.
- Reduce Your Home Value
If you plan to sell your home, hail-induced roof damage can affect its value. The extent to which hail roof damage will affect your property’s value depends on the severity of the damage, the roof’s age, and the overall condition of your home.
If you suspect your roof has been damaged by hail, hiring a qualified roofing contractor to inspect it is important. The contractor will assess the damage and recommend the best course of action. Hail damage can be a costly proposition, but prompt repair is important. That way, you can prevent further damage and keep your home safe from the elements.
Tips for Identifying Hail Damage to Your Roof
Check these tips for identifying hail damage to your roof:
- Inspect your roof after a hailstorm for dents, dings, missing shingles, and other signs of damage.
- Check your gutters and downspouts. If they’re clogged with debris, this is a sign that hail may have damaged your roof.
- Look for signs of water damage, such as damp areas on the ceiling, water stains on walls, or the presence of mold.
Homeowners Insurance Claim for Hail Damage
If your roof is covered by homeowners insurance, you can file a claim to have the damage repaired. However, not all homeowners insurance policies cover hail damage. You should check your policy carefully to see if you’re covered.
When filing a claim, document the damage as thoroughly as possible. Take photos of the damage, and keep any receipts for roof repairs to approve your claim.
Conclusion
The worst appearance of your roof after a hailstorm is when it’s completely covered in dents and dings. This is especially true if the hailstones were large and the impact was severe. The dents and dings can make the roof look unsightly and more vulnerable to water damage.
The severity of hail roof damage can vary greatly. Some hailstorms produce only small hailstones, while others produce hailstones the size of golf balls or even softballs. When your roof sustains hail roof damage, hire a professional to repair it as soon as possible to prevent aggravating its condition and keep your family safe.