Why is hail damage bad for a roof? Homeowners might wonder about this question, as roofs are typically very strong and stable. In turn, you wouldn’t expect something as small as a hailstone to risk damage! Also, it’s good to know what to expect by way of repairs after a hailstorm.
Note how hail damage affects a roof:
Hail weakens roof materials
Hail risks water leakage
Damage reduces a roof’s lifespan
Loosened roof materials create safety hazards
Damaged roofs reduce property values
Ignoring damage can void roof warranties
Untreated damage can raise insurance premiums
Hail damage means less interior insulation
A weak roof cannot support a structure properly
These are just a few reasons to address hail damage to your roof promptly. To find out more about how hail affects a roof, keep reading! This information can ensure you’re keeping your home or commercial structure in excellent condition. Also, you’ll know when to call a roofing repair contractor near you as well.
Why Is Hail Damage Bad for a Roof? 9 Reasons to Schedule Prompt Repairs
Hail damage is bad for a roof because it causes significant structural and aesthetic issues. These can lead to potential safety concerns and costly repairs. Here are some reasons why hail damage is bad for roofs:
Weakening of roof materials: Hailstones can be quite heavy, impacting the roof with force. This can crack, break, or dislodge shingles, tiles, or metal panels. When the roof's protective layer is compromised, it leaves the underlying materials susceptible to damage.
Water leakage: Hail damage can create openings in the roof, allowing water to seep through. If not promptly addressed, this damage risks leaks and issues inside the building. This water damage can affect ceilings, walls, insulation, and electrical systems. Prolonged water exposure can also lead to mold growth.
Reduced lifespan: A roof that has been severely damaged by hail will likely have a reduced lifespan. Once the roofing materials are compromised, they are more susceptible to degradation from UV rays, rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations. This accelerates everyday wear and tear.
Safety hazards: Hail damage to a roof can create hazards for occupants. Loose or broken roofing materials can fall from the roof, posing a safety risk to people below. Additionally, damaged roofs might not be able to withstand future storms. This increases the likelihood of further damage during future weather events.
Decreased property value: A damaged roof diminishes the overall aesthetic appeal and integrity of a property. Prospective buyers may be deterred by a damaged roof. In turn, this can lead to lower property value or difficulties in selling the property. As a result, you might lose equity in your property rather than build it over the years!
Warranty implications: Ignoring hail damage can void roofing warranties. Also, this might void warranties for other materials inside and outside the property. These can include insulation materials, wiring, drywall, and so on.
Insurance issues: Hail damage may be covered by homeowner's insurance, but it is essential to act quickly and document the damage properly to ensure a smooth claims process. If the damage is not addressed promptly, repairs might not be covered by insurance. Your carrier might also raise your premiums.
Roof performance: A structure’s roof helps insulate its interior. In turn, hail damage can mean small cracks and openings that compromise those insulating factors. Those cracks can let out your heating and cooling, spiking utility costs.
Roof support: Hail damage compromises a roof’s ability to support a structure. Consequently, you might soon notice settling or shifting and resultant cracks and other damage.
To lessen the effects of hail damage, inspect your roof regularly, especially after severe weather. Timely repairs or replacements help maintain the roof's integrity and protect your property from long-term damage.
Does Hail Always Damage a Roof?
No, hail does not always damage a roof. The extent of damage depends on the size and density of the hailstones. Also, consider the roofing materials, its age and condition, and the angle and force of impact during the hailstorm.
Lastly, remember that hailstones can be relatively small and soft, causing minimal or no damage. On the other hand, larger and denser hailstones can have a more significant impact, leading to visible damage to the roof. Also, note how hail might affect various roofing materials specifically:
Hail can cause granule loss, cracking, or bruising of asphalt shingles. Older or poorly maintained shingles are more susceptible to damage.
Hail can crack or split wood roofing materials, especially if they are already aged or weathered.
High-quality metal roofs tend to be more resilient to hail damage, but large hailstones can still cause dents in the metal panels.
Clay or concrete tiles are generally durable and resistant to hail damage, though large hailstones may crack or break them.
While some hailstorms might not inflict visible damage, even small or barely noticeable hail damage can risk issues. Over time, small cracks or granule loss can worsen, allowing water to penetrate the roof. With this in mind, always schedule a roof inspection after a hailstorm, to assess damage properly.
What Roofs Are Best Against Hail?
Some roofing materials perform better against hail damage than others. Note some roofing types that contractors might consider a more durable against hail damage:
Impact-resistant asphalt shingles: Some manufacturers produce asphalt shingles designed to be more resistant to hail impact. These shingles are reinforced with materials like fiberglass or polymer, making them less prone to cracking and granule loss.
Metal roofing: High-quality metal roofs, such as steel or aluminum, are generally more hail resistant. They withstand hail impact without cracking or breaking. Also, any dents that do occur typically do not affect the roof's functionality or longevity.
Concrete tiles: Concrete tiles are sturdy and can withstand hail impact well. They are less likely to crack or break compared to other roofing materials.
Clay tiles: Clay tiles are also known for their durability and hail resistance. However, they can be more expensive than other roofing options.
Synthetic roofing materials: Synthetic slate or rubber roofing can provide good hail resistance while offering the appearance of more traditional materials.
Impact-resistant composite shingles: These are specialty shingles designed to withstand hail and other impact damage. They are typically made from a combination of materials like asphalt, rubber, and polymers.
When selecting a roofing material, consider the typical hailstorm severity in your area and the roofing material's impact resistance rating. Also, don’t overlook the climate and weather conditions your roof will face.
Additionally, ensure that the roofing installation is done correctly by a professional roofing contractor. This will maximize the roof's resilience against hail and other potential damage. Regular roof inspections and maintenance are also essential to catch and address any damage early on and extend the roof's lifespan.
A Word From Our Roof Repair Crew
The Rhode Island Roofers is happy to explain, why is hail damage bad for a roof? Hopefully we’ve explained this information clearly! Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Rhode Island roof repair contractors when needed. We offer FREE roof inspections and repair quotes for property owners in our area. For more information, contact us today.
