Large hail can cause granules on shingles to become loose or fall off. It can also break the shingles and cause leaks. Loose granules might not seem like a problem but they can actually gather in the downspouts when they fall off. Small hail can cause damage to your roof, too, so it’s important to always check it after a hail storm. Here is what homeowners should do to inspect their homes for potential hail damage:
Look at Your Gutters
One of the easiest steps in checking your gutters for hail damage is to do a visual inspection from the ground. The dents and cracks you will probably find are signs that the gutter or worse the roof might be damaged. The gutter screens and downspouts are most likely damaged as well. If so, you need to contact a local roofing contractor in Schaumburg to know for sure.
Check the Siding and Windowsills
There’s usually damage to the siding and windowsills after a hailstorm. If you see dings on these parts of your home, it means you need to call in a professional to inspect your home’s exterior. If you don’t fix the damage, it may affect the efficiency of your home.
Inspect Outside Items for Damage
You can find signs of roof hail damage by checking other items outside your home. If there is damage the patio cover, shed, decking, porch, or the outdoor AC unit, chances are your roof has damage, too. Look for chipped paint on the decking and other painted wood surfaces. If the hail made such serious damage, then it’s very likely that your shingles have chips, too.
Don’t Examine the Shingles
Some homeowners examine the shingles themselves after a hailstorm. Aside from putting themselves at risk of falling off the roof, they may not identify the damage properly. Only a roofing contractor can assess whether or not hail has done enough damage to the roof to warrant repairs or replacement. It’s a good call to leave the job to a professional roofer. If you’re lucky, you may get the inspection for free.
Catching hail damage fast can help you save money on roof repairs. Insurance companies usually have a certain time-frame in which you need to report damage after a hailstorm. If you don’t notice it until after that time-frame, then the insurance company may not cover costs. Develop the habit of inspecting your house outside for signs of hail damage. If you spot any of the indicators outlined above, then call a local roofing contractor to inspect the roof. Most roofing companies give free inspections and estimates.
Sources
How to Handle Roof Damage from Hail Storms, AngiesList.com
Asphalt Roof Shingle Storm or Hail Damage Identification, Inspectapedia.com
