Staying Ahead Of Trouble—Signs That Your Roof May Have Hail Damage
Home ownership is an extremely rewarding accomplishment for many people, but it also comes with a wide variety of challenges. One of the most pressing is keeping up with maintenance, and if you're unsure whether damage has even occurred, you may face problems that compound into extremely serious issues.
Hail damage is one of these problems that may go largely undetected to the untrained eye. Not all hail damage to a roof will manifest in the form of big holes and flooding leaks, but if you want to avoid future damage, it's important that you act quickly. Below, you'll find a guide to some signs that your roof may have undergone hail damage, allowing you to keep an eye out for potentially serious issues.
Sediment Around Downspouts
Many roofs are protected by asphalt shingles, and the sedimentary material that comprises those shingles may be knocked loose in a hail storm. While you can expect some loose debris without concern, continuing buildup shows a serious issue.
After a hail storm, be sure to inspect the area around your downspouts to see if any large deposits of asphalt appear to have washed away with the rain. Any spout blockage should be immediately noted and the location marked, as it could revel serious fractures or other issues that may threaten your home.
Dented Metal
The metal flashing around the exterior of your shingled roof is a vital part of the roof construction and can also show early warning signs of damage. The material used for that flashing is chosen for its combination of strength and malleability, meaning that it's also able to show serious dents.
If you notice a large amount of dents and dings, you may be looking at broken shingles or even damage to roof seals that are vital for weatherproofing your home. A casual inspection will likely be sufficient to display serious damage and can allow you to get ahead of problems before they compound.
Punctures
Metal or slate tile roofs may have much more obvious signs of hail damage than shingled roofs. While there may be more inherent strength in those materials, once damage has been done, it reveals itself in a hurry. Any punctures to your roof that are caused by hail are a serious warning sign of the potential for rain damage. After a hail storm, take the opportunity to inspect your roof surface and carefully search for any punctures that you need to address.
For professional assistance with repairing a hail-damaged roof, contact a company like Bob Behrends Roofing & Gutters LLC.
