We have had many cases when a homeowner calls us with a roof leak, and after the inspection we discover that the roof leak was caused by damage from a hail storm that might have happened 2-3 years ago.
The homeowner usually doesn’t recall a hail storm, but a hail storm that might have lasted only 15 minutes can cause significant damage over time. Your roof should be inspected – especially after a wind and/or hail storm – because even minor damage made to your roof may lead to a much bigger problem in the future.
The reason why hail damage is bad for your roof is because granules are the protective layer of the shingles, and over a period of time rain will wash off the granules that were loosened by the hail storm and expose the asphalt underneath. Exposed asphalt will make the shingles deteriorate much faster than normal, causing the roof to leak.
- Large(quarter size or larger) hail in the area.
- Heavy winds(50+ MPH).
- A lot of leaves and debris in your yard and throughout your neighborhood.
If you were not home be aware of:
1. Neighbors discussing that their homes were hit by hail damage.
2.Reports on the news.
3. Multiple contractor signs in the yard. Door knocking (contractors knocking on your door).
4. Telemarketing (contractors calling your home, trying to set an appointment).
5. Direct Mail pieces making you aware of damage in your area.
If any of the above signs are present, your roof should be inspected.
It usually takes a trained eye to recognize hail damage on the roof, gutters, and siding. Unless the hail was softball size, you cannot see the hail damage to roof and gutters from the ground. Many of our clients are surprised to hear when they have hail damage.