Hail may not be the most threatening weather event, but it can still be harsh enough to cause damage to your roof. That’s why it’s important to prepare for hail storms and to know what to do to ensure your roofing isn’t compromised.
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In this article, professional roofing contractor Empire Roofing & More discusses the effects of storm and hail on residential roofs. We also share some tips on how to deal with a roof damaged during a severe storm.
How Hail Can Affect Your Home
Hail is basically a form of precipitation, which turns into stones due to a combination of updrafts, moisture and changing temperatures. When hailstones hit your roof, it can cause lasting damage and affect its structural soundness.
The size and impact of hailstones typically vary. For instance, one-inch or larger stones are known to have greater impact on single-layer roofing systems. Meanwhile, roofs with multiple layers of shingles are often more susceptible to smaller hailstones. This is due to the softer support area underneath the top layer, which can be penetrated by the tiny stones.
Apart from the roof, hail storms can also cause damage to vehicles, aluminum siding and gutters.
What to Do When Your Roof Is Damaged by Hail
The best thing to do after a hail storm is to enlist professional roofing services. Hire an inspector to check your roof for possible hail damage or confirm the severity of the damage.
Hail damage can either be functional or cosmetic. Functional damage typically affects the overall integrity and life span of the roof and shingles. Meanwhile, cosmetic damage involves changes in how a roof looks and doesn’t really have an effect on roof functionality or longevity.
It’s important to learn about the type of hail damage your roof has. Due to the “Cosmetic Damage Exclusion” clause in some insurances, insurance companies may refuse to pay out claims by saying the damage is merely cosmetic. Make sure to have a reliable inspector and public adjuster to help you out in this kind of situation.
Empire Roofing & More offers affordable roofing solutions for challenging situations. We also offer other services such as gutters, siding and windows. Call us at (412) 618-4729 or fill out our contact form to request a free quote. We serve customers in Township and Pittsburgh, PA.
