Keep Roof Hail Damage From Costing You
Roof hail damage can become a costly problem for commercial property owners, often leading to extensive repairs or even a full roof replacement if not addressed in time.
Severe hailstorms can cause dents, punctures, and other types of roof damage, all of which compromise the integrity of your roofing system. If your building has recently been exposed to severe weather, it’s crucial to recognize the signs of hail damage to prevent further damage (and avoid needing a new roof).
How Hail Damages Commercial Roofs
Hailstones range in size from tiny pellets to the size of golf balls, and when combined with wind damage during thunderstorms, they can wreak havoc on your roofing system. The severity of hail damage depends on the size and velocity of the hail and the roofing material used on your commercial property.
Common Types of Hail Damage
Dents and Dings
Hailstones leave behind visible dents and dings on the surface of metal roofs and roof vents.
Granule Loss
If your commercial property has an asphalt shingle roof, hail can knock off the protective granules, making them vulnerable to water damage and roof leaks.
Punctures
Large hailstones cause punctures in roofing materials, especially older or less durable systems.
Cracked Skylights
Hail impacts can crack or shatter skylights leading to major leaks and further damage to your property.
Damage to Gutters and Downspouts
Your drainage system may take on significant damage from a hail storm, resulting in ponding water, leaks, and eventual structural damage. If the damage is bad enough, you may need entirely new drains.
Decking
Hail doesn’t just damage the surface of your roof. It can also affect the roofing system underneath. When hail hits hard enough, it can damage the decking and cause structural issues.
Steps to Take After Storm Damage
If you suspect your roof has hail damage after a storm, taking prompt action prevents further damage and helps you navigate the insurance claim process effectively.
1. Schedule a Roof Inspection
If you notice any signs of hail damage, reach out to a professional roofing contractor as soon as possible.
Some damage, such as dents in metal surfaces, is visible from the ground. Others, like punctures or damaged decking, are hidden and require expert evaluation. A thorough roof inspection can assess the extent of the damage and the roofing contractor can suggest the best course of action.
2. Document the Damage
Take photos of any visible damage, including dents, punctures, and damage to gutters or downspouts. This documentation is helpful when filing an insurance claim with your insurance company. Be sure to check areas like roof vents, skylights, and other vulnerable parts of the roof that may have sustained damage.
3. File an Insurance Claim
Once the roof inspection is done and you’ve documented the damage, your roofing contractor can help guide you through the claims process. Filing a claim with your insurance company can cover some or all of the repair or replacement costs, depending on your insurance policy. Be prepared to pay your deductible as part of this process.
When the insurance adjuster arrives to assess the damage, having a reputable roofer present can help ensure nothing is overlooked, especially for damage that might not be immediately visible, such as damaged decking or roof leaks.
How to Protect Your Roof from Hail Damage
You can’t control the weather, but there are several ways to protect your roof to minimize the amount of damage hail can do to your roofing system.
1. Choose the Right Roofing Material
If you live in an area prone to hail like Texas or Colorado, investing in an impact-resistant roofing material is one of the best ways to protect your property. Metal roofing is a great option for commercial properties. It’s extremely durable and can resist hail impact with minor dents.
2. Perform Regular Maintenance
Maintaining your roof through regular inspections and roof repairs can help prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
Have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof at least twice a year, especially after severe weather events. This proactive approach ensures that any hail damage is identified and addressed before it leads to more serious problems like roof leaks.
3. Reinforce Vulnerable Areas
Areas like skylights, roof vents, and other penetrations are particularly vulnerable during severe weather. To safeguard them, adding protective covers or opting for more durable materials can significantly reduce the risk of damage, ensuring they withstand the impact of storms better.
4. Ensure Proper Drainage
Check your gutters and downspouts regularly to make sure they are clear of debris and functioning properly. Proper drainage helps prevent water buildup on the roof, which can lead to leaks and further damage if hail impact causes punctures in the roofing material.
The Role of Professional Roofing Services
Dealing with hail damage roof issues can feel overwhelming and expensive, especially since it needs to be addressed quickly to avoid further damage. Hailstorms can cause significant damage, including roof leaks, punctures, and structural issues, making it critical to act fast.
Partnering with a trusted roofing company like TEMA helps take the stress out of the situation.
From thorough roof inspections to timely roof repairs, we offer a full range of services to protect your commercial property from storm damage. With 24-hour emergency repairs available, you can address issues immediately and extend the lifespan of your roof.
Roof hail damage, if left unchecked, can compromise the safety of your building. By taking prompt action and working with experienced professionals, you can protect your investment, prevent costly damage, and save money in the long run.
