When the soft rain turns to a thudding sound on your roof, it can only mean one thing: welcome to hail storm season. After the storm passes, your first thought may be to check your car hood for dents or inspect the flowerbeds, but what if you also looked up to check your roof?
If you live in an older neighbourhood or your roof is older than 30 years, watch out – your roof may be at more of a risk for hail damage. Your home’s roof can become a victim of hail damage, and our roofing experts at Knights Roofing are here to help you know what to look for during a residential roof inspection and what can be repaired and give you tips for preventing hail damage to your roof.
How Hail Storms Can Damage a Roof
Hail storms can cause significant damage to your roof, leading to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. Here’s what you need to know about how hail affects your roof and what to look for.
Factors Influencing Hail Damage
- Hail Size: Larger hailstones cause more damage, often puncturing or bruising shingles.
- Wind Speed: Stronger winds increase the impact force of hailstones, leading to more severe damage.
- Wind Direction: The direction of the wind during a hailstorm affects which parts of your roof are most damaged.
- Roofing Materials: Different materials have varying resistance levels; for instance, asphalt shingles may be more prone to damage than metal roofing.
- Age of Material: Older roofing materials can be more brittle and less capable of withstanding hail impact.
- Roof Slope: The angle of your roof influences how hailstones strike and damage the surface.
Your roof isn’t invincible, and over time, hail damage can lead to damaged or dented shingles, damaged eavestroughs, or exposed fibreglass mats. If left unchecked, hail damage can lead to moisture buildup, mould, electrical issues, and wood rot.
More importantly, if your roof shingles have flown off and damaged your neighbour’s property, you are liable for the damage. Don’t try to take the high road – if your house was hit hard with a hail storm, call in a professional Edmonton roofing company like Knights Roofing for residential roof repairs.
What Does Hail Damage Look Like?
Not all hail damage to your roof will look the same. If you’re worried about needing roof repairs for hail damage, keep an eye out for common signs of damage:
- Bruising or dark spots: Hailstones create soft spots on shingles, which may not be immediately visible but can lead to leaks over time.
- Cracking, splitting or torn shingles: Heavy hail can cause shingles to crack, allowing water to seep through and cause further damage.
- Granule Loss: You might notice granules knocked off from shingles, which often collect in gutters and downspouts. This loss exposes the underlying material to the elements and accelerates aging.
- Missing Shingles: Hail and strong winds can break shingles away, exposing the underlying fibreglass matting and making the roof vulnerable to water damage.
- Weakened Sealing: Hail’s impact can weaken the adhesive seals of shingles, causing them to pull away from the roof and increasing the risk of leaks.
Remember, hail damage isn’t limited to your roof. Here are other areas on your property and home to inspect for damage:
- Downspouts and Gutters: Look for dents, cracks, and clogging in your gutters and downspouts.
- Exterior Damage: Examine your home’s siding, windows, and exterior fixtures for dents and cracks.
- Yard: Signs of hail damage in your yard can include stripped leaves from plants, dented cars, and other outdoor damage.
Your home won’t be the only one impacted by a hail storm in your community. After you have looked for roof damage from hail, help out to see if your neighbour’s roof is also in need of a roof repair!
Why Book a Residential Roof Inspection For Hail Damage?
Not all hail damage is visible, and some may be more severe than it appears. Cosmetic damage can sometimes hide more significant issues. It’s best to have your roof inspected by a roofing professional to determine the extent of the damage. A professional roof inspection can guide you on whether you need minor repairs or a complete roof replacement.
If you notice any of these signs, you need to take action to address the issues and prevent further damage to your roof and home. Hail damage can be repaired, often by replacing damaged shingles or, in severe cases, the entire roof. Don’t delay—contact Knights Roofing for a roof inspection today and ensure your home remains protected for whatever comes this summer.
3 Tips for How to Protect Your Roof From Hail
Protecting your roof from hail damage isn’t as easy as pulling your car into the garage, but there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk.
1. Invest in Durable Roofing Materials
One of the best ways to protect your roof from hail damage is to use impact-resistant shingles. These durable materials are designed to withstand the force of hailstones, reducing the likelihood of cracks, bruises, and other damage. Investing in high-quality roofing materials now when you book a roof repair can save you from costly repairs in the future.
2. Address Pre-existing Damage Early
Any existing damage or weakness in your roof can make it more vulnerable to hail. Regularly inspect your roof and deal with issues like missing shingles, cracks, or loose seals as soon as they arise. Maintaining your roof and fixing problems early ensures it’s strong enough to withstand hail storms.
3. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches
Tree branches hanging over your roof may seem harmless, but they can pack a punch during a hailstorm. Hail can break these branches, causing them to fall and damage your roof. Regularly trim any overhanging branches to prevent this potential hazard. Keeping your roof clear of debris will also help maintain its integrity.
Protecting your roof from hail damage requires proactive thinking, but your peace of mind is worth the effort! Book a residential roof inspection with Knights Roofing today for a thorough assessment and to ensure your roof is in top condition.