Do I Need to Replace Roof After Hail?

One of the most frustrating things about hail damage is that it may not be immediately apparent from the ground. Homeowners sometimes ignore the damage, if it isn’t readily apparent, and this is usually where the trouble begins. If ignored for weeks or months, this is often when leaks develop and more serious structural damage occurs. One of the best ways to find out if you have hail damage, and figure out whether your roof just needs some minor repairs, or if it needs to be replaced, is to call a reputable roofer and get the roof inspected as soon as possible after a hail storm. If your roof has been damaged by hail and you need roof hail damage repair in Dallas, TX, the reputable roofing professionals to rely on are those at Accent Roofing & Construction. Schedule a roof inspection and get an estimate from us by calling 214-295-5500.

What does roof damage from hail look like?

After a hailstorm, hail damage may not be apparent from the ground. That’s why it’s important to go up on the roof to check for damage. Even then, you have to know what you’re looking for. Here are some tips to spot hail damage:

• Check flashing, metal valleys, and vents for dents. If you’ve had your car dented by hail, you’ll see similar dents in the metal on your roof, and these dents are the first sign of hail damage.
• Look for dents on the ridge cap. Ridges are the highest point on your roof and often get hit the hardest by hail. Dents are a sure sign of hail damage.
• Check for cracks, missing granules, or bruising on your shingles. Like bruises on your skin, a bruise on your roof will feel softer and have some give when you place your finger on dimples caused by hail.

Is hail damage repairable

Yes, hail damage to your roof is repairable. To find out how extensive the damage is, get in touch with a reputable roofer like those at Accent Roofing & Construction to inspect the roof and assess the damage. Roofers are trained to spot damage, and we can also provide you with an estimate you can include on an insurance claim. 

Can hail damage a metal roof

One of the advantages of having a metal roof is that it is highly resistant to hail damage. In fact, many metal roofing materials are Class 4 impact resistant. This is the highest damage resistance rating any roofing material can receive. While metal roofs can get dented by hail, they won’t get penetrated, so hail won’t cause leaks on a metal roof.

What size hail will damage a roof?

Depending on what kind of roofing material you have, any size hail could affect your roof. Standard asphalt shingle roofs are probably the most vulnerable, while impact-resistant shingles and metal roofs hold up the best. Still, the smaller the size hail, the less likely it will cause damage or significant damage. Pea-sized hail—about ¼ inch—is unlikely to do any damage. Your roof may also be safe to some extent with marble-sized hail. Once hailstones get bigger than that, the greater the likelihood damage will occur. The bigger the hail is the more likely your roof may also experience wind damage. Wind is pivotal in the formation of hail, and the bigger the hailstones, the stronger the wind will be. No matter the size of the hail, it’s still good to inspect your roof afterward for any damage. You don’t want to be caught off guard later on by leaks or structural damage caused by hail earlier in the year.

How long do you have to report hail damage to your roof?

Because hail damage is hard to spot, you may wonder when to claim hail damage on your roof if you’ve just discovered it. With hail, the sooner the better because the faster the damage is repaired, the better. But, you are in luck when it comes to insurance claims. Most insurance companies give you a year from the hail event to report the damage. Always check with your individual insurer to make certain what your policy covers. 

Do I have to pay a deductible for hail damage to my roof?

Generally, almost all insurance policies require a deductible to be paid before a repair is covered. Hail damage is no exception. Normally, with hail, the deductible will vary depending on where you live. States like Texas that have high incidences of hail will often have higher deductibles. Again, checking with your insurer is always the best way to find out about what’s covered and how much deductibles will cost.