Golf-ball sized hail falls at speeds of ~40mph and can cause significant damage to your home’s exterior. Read on to learn more about how to identify hail damage, and what to do about it:
On Your Roof
Hailstones as small as 1” can cause serious damage, so it’s important to inspect your roof after a hail storm. Metal roofs have a very high impact rating, but this does not mean they are immune to damage. Hailstones can dent a metal roof, causing it to appear pocked and dimpled.
Traditional asphalt shingles are significantly more susceptible to hail damage. Granule loss, bruising, and cracking are all common during hail storms. If your shingles have bald, black patches or it looks like someone poured coffee grounds in your downspout, your shingles may need to be replaced. Untreated hail damage can shorten the lifespan of your roof and expose your home to potential leaks.
On Your Siding
Roofs generally take the brunt of hail, but if it’s falling at an angle or there are strong winds, your siding is likely to see some damage as well. As with shingles, siding can be dented or chipped by falling hail. Buckled or warping siding will need to be replaced before it forms a gap that allows water and pests to enter your home. If your home has aluminum siding, check for oxidation by running your hand over the siding—chalky residue is a sign your siding is approaching the end of its lifespan.
Why You Should Get The Damage Repaired
Hail damage might seem mostly aesthetic, but those dents and dings can lead to bigger problems if not repaired. If you have cracked or bare shingles, it’s only a matter of time before you have water leaking in your ceiling. Some roof warranties may be void if repairs are not completed in a timely manner by a professional roofing company.
95% of home exterior repairs and replacements are insurance claims. At K & P Exteriors, we’ll help you navigate the insurance claim process, and take care of any necessary repairs. We can also help with gutter repair, windows, and even your attic’s insulation. If your roof or siding has been damaged, visit our website, or give us a call at (303) 853-0072 and let us take care of it for you!