Tips for Giving Your Roof a Post-Hailstorm Checkup
Few of nature’s wraths can match the intensity of a severe hailstorm. Giant chunks of ice raining from the sky and pelting everything in sight can leave behind immense property damage if you’re in their path. Vehicles, homes, and especially roofs often bear the brunt of the impact.
Even if your roof looks intact from ground level post-storm, it’s vital to thoroughly inspect for less visible damage that can still compromise its weather-tightness. Unaddressed hail damage that punctures shingles or leaves cracks in roof components gives moisture intrusion routes that spur rot, mold growth, and leaks over time.
Read on for tips from the pros at Utz Roofing on what to check for after a hailstorm strikes to protect your roof's integrity.
Inspect All Sides of the Roof
Oftentimes the most severe hail damage occurs on portions of the roof not visible from the front yard or driveway. Make sure to walk completely around your home and inspect all roof planes from multiple angles if possible. Use binoculars and look for signs like:
• Punctures or cracking in asphalt shingles
• Dents and damage to metal roofing
• Broken or missing shingles
• Exposed nail heads where hail struck and lifted shingle edges
• Granule loss that leaves bald patches on asphalt shingles
• Damage around vents, skylights, and chimneys where water can intrude
Also, check the ground around your home’s perimeter for hailstone debris or accumulated piles of protective roofing granules that have fallen from above. These are telltale signs of significant impact damage.
Inspect the Attic, Overhangs, and Soffits
Hail-related damage often extends beyond shingles on the roof’s surface. Inspect inside attics for daylight shining through impact holes that have pierced roof decking. Also, check for moisture on rafters or insulation that signals breaches.
Examine exterior roof overhangs and soffits for hail damage as well. While you likely won’t walk on these surfaces, use binoculars and bright lighting to inspect. Hailstones can dent or puncture these exposed underside areas and create entry points for birds, bats, bees, moisture, and more.
Check Rain Gutters and Downspouts
The force of hail pelting sheet metal rain gutters can crush them inward and litter debris that clogs water flow. Carefully check the gutters surrounding your home, clearing out any hail-related debris. Straighten damaged sections to restore proper roof drainage.
Also, examine where downspouts connect to underground drains or drainage extensions. Fast-flowing stormwater from hail-damaged roofs can detach these connections if not secured properly, leading to flooding and foundation issues over time.
Watch for Interior Leaks
Even a single hail puncture in shingles can eventually lead to leaks through the roof decking that causes interior water damage. Watch for slow drips as well as temporary ceiling stains that appear after storms and seem to mysteriously vanish as they dry. Also, check areas like unfinished basements for moisture and mold issues after hailstorms. Even tiny leaks send considerable water through over just a few seasons.
Know When to Call the Pros
If your roof inspection reveals significant hail impacts visible from the ground or attic, Safelite AutoGlass advises calling a professional roofer right away. The longer moisture intrusion points go unaddressed, the greater the hidden structural damage can be from rot, mold, and decay. Left unrepaired, small issues compound over time.
For thorough roof inspections after severe hailstorms, storm damage assessments, and licensed repair services, contact the experts at Utz Roofing in Missouri at (636) 402-8086. Our team brings decades of local experience identifying and resolving hail damage so your roof can continue providing full protection from the elements for your home. Give us a call and breathe easier knowing your roof is back in trustworthy hands post-storm.
