How To Know If You Have Hail Damage
Recognizing Hail Damage on Your Roof
Hailstorms are common in Iowa and can cause significant damage to your roof. Identifying hail damage early can prevent more severe problems down the line. This guide will help you recognize the signs of hail damage and understand what steps to take next.
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Common Signs of Hail Damage
Dented or Cracked Shingles
Hail can cause noticeable dents or cracks in your shingles. These dents may not always be deep, but they compromise the shingle's ability to protect your roof. Cracked shingles are a clear sign that your roof has sustained hail damage and may require repair or replacement.
Granule Loss
Shingles are coated with granules that help protect them from the sun's UV rays. Hail impacts can knock these granules off, leading to bald spots on your shingles. Granule loss can often be found in your gutters or downspouts after a hailstorm. If you notice granules accumulating in these areas, it’s a sign that your roof might have hail damage.
Bruising
Bruising on shingles can occur when hail impacts the surface, causing indentations that might not be immediately visible. To check for bruising, gently run your hand over the shingle surface. If you feel small dimples or soft spots, your shingles might be bruised. These areas can weaken the shingle and lead to leaks.
Damaged Flashing and Vents
Hail can also damage the flashing and vents on your roof. Check for dents or cracks in the metal components around chimneys, skylights, and other roof penetrations. Damaged flashing can lead to leaks and further roof deterioration if not addressed promptly.
Impact Marks
Hail can leave visible impact marks on your roof. These are often round, black spots where the hailstones hit the shingles. The size and severity of the marks can vary depending on the size of the hailstones and the speed at which they fell.
Gutter and Downspout Damage
Check your gutters and downspouts for signs of hail damage. Dents, cracks, or bending can indicate that your roof took a hit during the storm. Damaged gutters can also affect the drainage system, leading to water damage around your home.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Hail Damage
Inspect Your Roof: Safely inspect your roof from the ground using binoculars, or consider using a drone for a closer look. Look for the signs mentioned above.
Check Your Attic: Inspect your attic for leaks or water stains, which can indicate roof damage. Look for any light coming through the roof, which could be a sign of holes or cracks.
Contact a Professional: Hail damage can be tricky to identify, especially if it’s not immediately visible. Contact Prime Exteriors for a comprehensive roof inspection. Our experts can accurately assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.
Document the Damage: Take photos of any visible damage to your roof, gutters, and surrounding areas. This documentation can be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
File an Insurance Claim: If you have homeowners insurance, report the damage to your insurance company. Provide them with the documentation and any professional assessments you’ve received.
Why Choose Prime Exteriors?
At Prime Exteriors, we understand the impact that hail damage can have on your roof and home. Our experienced team in Polk City, IA, is equipped to handle all aspects of roof repair and replacement due to hail damage. We offer:
Comprehensive Inspections: Detailed assessments to identify all hail damage.
Expert Repairs: High-quality repair services to restore your roof’s integrity.
Insurance Assistance: Help with filing insurance claims and navigating the process.
Request A Free Roof Inspection
What to Expect During a Free Roof Inspection:
A certified inspector from Prime Exteriors will assess your roof.
We provide a detailed report and estimate.
Schedule the work at your conovenience.
We clean up all debris post-repair or replacement.
Talk to the Experts at Prime Exteriors
If you suspect that your roof has hail damage, contact Prime Exteriors in Polk City, IA today. We’ll be happy to come out and inspect your roof and provide you with a detailed assessment. Don’t wait until minor damage turns into a major problem.
Contact us today to schedule your free roof inspection