Summer and early fall are prime times for damaging storms to roll through the area. Storms can bring rain, high wind, and even hail. In just a few short moments, hail can create an extreme amount of damage to your home. Roofs are one of the most common sites of hail damage, but damage can also occur to windows and decks. Below, we will go over some common areas along your roof to check for hail damage following a storm.
Gutters and Downspouts
The gutters and downspouts are prime places to check for hail damage. Any damage to the gutters and downspouts may be an indication that your roof has also sustained damage.
Look for any signs of denting or pitting in the thin metal. A good trick is to use a piece of sidewalk chalk to help check for dents. Run the chalk along the outside of the gutter or downspout. Even slight indentations that might not be visible to the naked eye will not have a chalk mark. Additionally, check the downspouts for any signs of chipped or broken roofing asphalt. Often, hail can cause tiny asphalt granules to chip off the roof. These tiny granules are then washed away with the storm water. If you notice a large collection of asphalt particles in the downspout, it could be a sign your roof has sustained significant hail damage.
Check the Shingles
Damage to the shingles caused by hail will usually appear in three different forms. First, small granules may be missing from the individual shingles. Secondly, you may notice bruising in the shingles. Run your hand along the surface of the shingle to feel for any dimples or indentations. If you find an indentation, apply pressure to the low points. If the dimple sinks or gives, this may be an indication of roof damage. Lastly, check for any cracked shingles. If the hail hits the roof hard enough it can create a large, circular crack in the shingles.
Inspecting Siding for Hail Damage
While roofs are commonly associated with hail damage, siding is equally susceptible. Hail can cause various forms of damage to siding materials, which may not be immediately noticeable. A thorough inspection involves looking for specific signs that indicate hail impact.
- Cracking and Splitting: Hailstones can cause cracks or splits in siding panels. These may appear as linear fractures or half-circle shapes, often located between the ridges and valleys of the siding where flexibility is minimal.
- Chipping: Chips typically occur at the bottom of siding panels, presenting as small, half-moon indentations. These are best observed by looking upward from beneath the siding.
- Dents and Dings: Especially prevalent in aluminum siding, dents may be more visible when the surface is wet or when using a side-lighting technique to cast shadows over the indentations.
- Discoloration or Oxidation Marks: Hail impacts can remove the oxidation layer on siding, leading to noticeable discoloration or shiny spots.
- Mold and Mildew Growth: Persistent moisture due to compromised siding can lead to biological growth, indicating underlying damage that allows water infiltration.
Metal Components
Aside from the gutters and downspouts, visually inspect the other metal components along your roof. This includes the flashing, venting, and metal fans. Typically, hail damage is easiest to see on thin metal surfaces.
Air conditioners other great places to check. The horizontal fan blades can easily show any damage or denting that may have been caused by hail. If you notice other metal components along the roof have hail damage, it might be time to have a professional examine your roof, as well.
We understand that storms can come out of nowhere and can create a significant amount of damage to your home. At Intelligent Design, our team is dedicated to responding quickly to your storm damage needs. Our team is professional, knowledgeable, and committed to customer service. If your roof has sustained hail damage, and is in need of repair, we are here to help. Contact us today for a roof inspection.
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