5 Telltale Signs It’s Time to Repair Your Roof After Hail Hits
Each year, hailstorms leave homeowners scrambling to assess the damage to their property, and one of the most critical areas to check is the roof. Without a fully functional roof, leaks and further damage are practically guaranteed.
In this article, I’ll guide you through five key signs that your roof needs repair after a hailstorm, from dents and broken shingles to granule loss. I’ll also share tips on protecting your roof from future damage and knowing when to call in a professional. Don’t wait until the next storm leaves your home vulnerable—read on to learn how to thoroughly inspect your roof’s condition.
Inspecting for Hail Damage
To properly assess the condition of your roof, consider the following detailed inspection steps:
1. Check for Dents
Begin by thoroughly examining all roof sections for dents or depressions in the material. Pay close attention to the shingles, vents, gutters, and flashing. Dents might not always point directly to hail damage, but they can indicate that other roof repairs may be necessary. For metal roofs, these dents may be more visible, whereas asphalt shingles may show dents as bruises where granules have loosened. Examine carefully, as bruised shingles can deteriorate over time, exposing your home to leaks.
2. Look for Missing Shingles
Check around the eaves, edges, and other tricky spots for missing or dislodged shingles. A strong hailstorm can easily strip away shingles, particularly if high winds accompanied the storm. Also, look for bent flashing, chimney caps, and other metal fixtures that can be loosened by hail strikes. If missing shingles are visible, your roof’s water resistance is compromised, and it’s crucial to replace them quickly to prevent further damage from rain and moisture.
3. Scan for Leaks
If your roof’s protective layer has been breached by hail damage, moisture can seep through and enter your home. Water stains on ceilings, damp spots around windows and doors, or even mold growth might all be indicators of a compromised roof. Check your attic for signs of moisture, such as wet insulation, discoloration on rafters, or a musty odor. Keep in mind that leaks don’t always appear immediately; they can sometimes manifest days or weeks after a storm.
Warning Signs of a Damaged Roof
Cracked Shingles
Hail damage often manifests as cracked shingles. Large splits and cracks in horizontal and vertical sections can signal serious roof damage, especially where water can pool. Use binoculars or a camera with zoom functionality to inspect hard-to-reach areas from the ground. Look for a starburst pattern of cracks emanating from a single impact point, which can indicate a significant blow that has compromised the shingle’s structure.
Missing or Bent Flashing
Flashing serves as a critical barrier around chimneys, skylights, valleys, and vents. After a hailstorm, inspect all flashing for buckling, tearing, or puncturing, as these issues could lead to significant water leakage if not addressed. Flashing can sometimes loosen after a storm, leaving seams exposed. With hurricane season looming, inspect flashing carefully to ensure it is securely fastened.
Discoloration
Granules embedded in many shingles protect them from UV rays. Discoloration can indicate granule loss due to impact trauma, which leaves your roof vulnerable to rapid deterioration. Check your gutters and downspouts for granule buildup, which often points to significant granule loss on the shingles themselves. Stark white patches, often accompanied by smooth surfaces where granules have been stripped away, are a surefire sign that your shingles are exposed and need attention.
Granule Loss
Granules do more than just enhance the appearance of asphalt shingles—they shield them from harsh sunlight. The intense sun can quickly degrade exposed asphalt, leading to cracks and leaks. If granules are unevenly distributed or completely missing, your roof is at risk. Gently brush your fingers across the surface of your shingles to see if granules come off easily. If they do, consider replacing the shingles.
Leaks
Punctures from hailstones often lead to leaks that can cause internal damage. Look out for water stains on the ceiling, damp spots around windows, and moldy odors. Sometimes, a simple sealant application can patch up a minor leak, but if multiple leaks are present, consult a professional contractor. They can accurately diagnose and repair the problem, ensuring your roof is ready for the next storm.
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