Hail damage roof inspection is a must, especially after a terrible hailstorm. Due to the fact that roofing is the first line of defense against harshest weather conditions, there’s a need to pay close attention to possible damages and impending issues. However, performing hail damage roof inspection is extremely crucial. If done improperly, it can cause more harm than good.
Here at StormPros, we understand the inconvenience that hail damage can bring Hence, we want to focus on what should (or shouldn’t) be done to prevent further damages. It’s important that as a homeowner, you know what actions should take place.
What’s the Force behind Hail Damage?
A closer look at a piece of hail.
To understand the force behind a hailstorm, let’s first look into how destructive it can be. According to reports, hailstorms are one of the most devastating natural phenomena. Hail sizes vary which can go as big as a golf ball and as tiny as a pea. Actually, it’s not the size that you should worry about. Regardless of the size (whether big or small), it’s the speed, impact, and intensity that would determine the kind of damages that it will bring. Mind you, they fall at an average of 100 mph. A strong impact can wreak havoc not only on your roofing but also to other things like vehicles and vegetation.
What Determines the Hail Damage?
Aside from the wind speed and its direction which we have mentioned above, there are other factors that could determine the level of hail damage. Let’s study them one by one.
Roofing’s Age
As expected, the older your roof gets, the more fragile it becomes. An aging roof cannot effectively withstand hail impact as compared to a newer one.
Bonus tip: As your roofing ages, always consult an expert on the most advisable procedures to make sure that it wouldn’t compromise your safety. There are cases when a roofing becomes subject to reroofing or if it has reached the end of the line, it’s then recommended for a replacement. Don’t wait for calamities to come and dictate your next steps, always be two steps ahead when it comes to caring for your residential roof.
Roof Covering
Tiny pea-sized hail covered a residential roofing.
Modern roofing materials are built to resist harsh weather conditions. However, no roofing system is perfect. They can all be subject to damage when challenged by extremely difficult situations like a hailstorm. As seen in the past, each roofing material absorbs hail impact differently. There are those that may break apart while others can sustain minor cracks or punctures. If your area is a usual target of hailstorms, ask your local roofing contractor for the most recommended roof covering.
Area
Did you know that your property’s location can also help determine hail damage? Yes, this is true. If your house is positioned near tall trees or adjacent to higher buildings, chances are, it could sustain very minimal hail damages. These things could act as a barrier to shield your house from direct contact with falling hail.
Dos and Don’ts: Hail Damage Roof Inspection
So what should you really do after a hailstorm? We’ve listed below some of the most crucial dos and don’ts if you want to perform hail damage roof inspection. Note that one single mistake can cost you big amounts of money. To prevent this from happening, read our pieces of advice below:
Dos:
- Make sure it’s safe to step outside. It’s so typical for homeowners to get worried about their roofing’s condition especially after a strong hailstorm. While this is normal, it’s not a good excuse to rush outside if you feel like the storm has passed already. The best way is to prioritize your own safety is by keeping yourself informed at all times. Listen to the news or call your town office to ask about the weather condition. If they have confirmed that the storm has left, that’s the only time you should step out. Another thing to note is that it could be wet and slippery outside. Be extra careful to avoid slipping or other accidents.
Before you check the surrounding areas, make sure it’s 100% safe to step outside.
- Take photos, videos, and notes. The next thing to do is to grab a pen and a camera. Jot down the things you find unusual like scratches, dents, holes, etc. Take pictures of these hail damage signs as well. If you can, a video would also be helpful. These evidences will help you explain the aftermath to a roofer more efficiently.
- Seek for help immediately. If you have already observed damages, don’t prolong them any longer. Underestimating them could lead to worst issues that are more costly to fix. Call your trusted local roofer to report the incident. You may use all the evidences that you were able to gather. The next thing to do is to schedule a professional hail damage roof inspection so that issues may be resolved right away.
Don’ts:
- Climb up your roof. Please, just don’t. This is for your own safety and protection. The good thing is that you can spot signs even without accessing your roofing area. You can look at the windows, walls, gutter system, flooring, fence, etc. Anywhere that’s reachable without climbing up a ladder could give out clues. If you have the training and experience to inspect your own roof, you can actually do so. Provided that you have a sturdy ladder. The area should also be clean and dry if you want to attempt to go up the roof. However, just a caveat, it’s not safe! The best thing to do is to leave it to the experts.
- Listen to storm chasers. Storm chasers are sketchy groups of people pretending to be professional roofers. They arrive at your doorstep exactly after a storm has passed to offer services at unbelievably low rates. They will also give highfalutin commitments that are too good to be true. If you encounter one, stay away from them. Turn down their offers and call a licensed roofing company instead. Usually, they will act as if they have done their part and leave you hanging and emptyhanded.
Final Words
If there’s one thing that we want to leave with you, it’s the thought that hail damage roof inspection is a vital process. It should be done with caution. If you have zero idea about hail damage, don’t assume. Instead, call your trusted local roofer to ask for assistance.
Take note as well that professional hail damage roof inspection is different from the visual inspections that normal people do. These roofing companies train their people to discover and distinguish what hail damage is. They also have the ability to foresee impending issues that an ordinary eye may not notice.
If you are an Allen homeowner facing hail damage dilemmas or if you just want to prepare for future calamities, StormPros is here to help you. Reach out to us via 214-227-2763.