Hailstorms cause roof damage worth at least $15 billion each year in the United States, accounting for a little less than half of all roof damage claims filed to insurers. Some forms of hail damage are quite obvious, while others more concealed. Calling a storm damage repair Fort Collins roofer to perform a detailed inspection of your roof after each hailstorm is very important for being able to act quickly if necessary. Here is what to look for to find out whether your roof has sustained any hail damage:
- Granule loss on shingle roofs – the topmost layer of roofing shingles consists of mineral granules that serve the purpose of protecting the shingles from harsh weather. Hail can dislodge those granules, leaving the shingle mat exposed and vulnerable;
- Cracks – the most common sign of hail damage on roofs made from asphalt shingles, cement tiles or clay is cracks in the roof covering elements;
- Dents and punctures on metal – metal roofs as well as the metal flashing and metal gutters used on roofs made from other materials can develop smaller or larger cracks or holes as a result of the impact caused by hail stones. Small hail stone can cause cosmetic damage in the form of dents – these issues usually do not require repair, but they do need to be monitored because they might turn into more severe damage.