Hailstorms can cause significant damage to your property, particularly to your roof. Early detection of hail damage can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly roof repairs. This comprehensive guide aims to assist Dallas-Fort Worth homeowners in identifying signs of hail damage.
Identifying Hail Damage on Your Roof
Recognizing hail damage on your roof can be challenging as the impact varies based on multiple factors, like the size and speed of the hail, the type and age of your roofing material, and the angle at which the hail hits. Here are critical indicators of roof hail damage:
- Dents or Bruises: One of the most common signs of hail damage is dents or bruises on your shingles. These may look like dark spots or areas where the granules were knocked away. The underlying material may also feel soft or spongy to the touch.
- Missing Granules: Hail can dislodge the granules from asphalt shingles, leaving bare spots or exposing the black substrate. Over time, these areas can weaken and lead to leaks.
- Circular Impact Marks: Hailstones often leave minor circular impact marks where the granules are knocked off. These are sometimes called “hail hits” and are a sign of hail damage.
Remember, a ground-level assessment might only sometimes reveal the extent of the damage. For a thorough inspection, consider hiring a professional roofing contractor.
Assessing Other Parts of Your Property
While your roof is the most prone to hail damage, other parts of your property can also be affected:
- Gutters and Downspouts: Check your gutters and downspouts for dents or distortions. These metal components can bear the brunt of a hailstorm, and damage to these areas often suggests that your roof may have also been impacted.
- Siding and Window Sills: Inspect the siding of your house and window sills for dents, cracks, or chipped paint. Hail can strike these areas hard, mainly if driven by strong winds5.
- Cars: Vehicles are another common casualty of hailstorms. Examine your car for dents, paint damage, cracked glass, and damaged mirrors or lights. Damage to your vehicle can indicate that your home may also have been affected.
Steps to Take If You Spot Hail Damage
Acting promptly is crucial if you suspect your property has sustained hail damage. Here are some steps to follow:
- Document the Damage: Take clear, close-up photos of the damage from different angles. It will be helpful when filing insurance claims.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurance company about the damage immediately. They can guide you through the process of filing a claim.
- Get a Professional Inspection: A professional roofing contractor can perform a thorough inspection to assess the extent of the damage and recommend necessary repairs.
Unaddressed hail damage can lead to severe issues, such as water leaks, structural damage, mold growth, and roof collapse. Early detection and repair are crucial to preventing such problems and maintaining the integrity of your home.
For more information or to Schedule a FREE Roof Inspection, contact Watson’s Roofing & Construction. We’re here to help you safeguard your home against the unpredictable Texan weather.
