Your roof is designed to act as a shield for the rest of your home, and hail can be one of the most destructive forces it faces.
Hail damage roof repair is a topic that every homeowner should be well-informed about. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss:
- The signs of hail damage
- The damage different hail sizes can do
- DIY hail damage roof repair tips
- The cost of repairing hail roof damage
- Whether or not homeowner’s insurance will cover your hail damage
Signs of Hail Damage
Hail damage to a roof can sometimes be difficult to spot, especially from the ground. However, there are several signs that can indicate you might have hail damage:
- Dented or Bruised Shingles: Hail can cause shingles to become dented or bruised, which may not be immediately visible. If you notice any irregularities on your shingles, it’s worth investigating further.
- Missing Granules: Hail impact can dislodge the protective granules on shingles. Look for areas where the granules are missing, leaving the underlying material exposed.
- Cracked or Split Shingles: Severe hail can cause shingles to crack or split. This can lead to leaks and further damage if not addressed promptly.
- Dents on Metal Roofing: If you have a metal roof, hail can leave visible dents. Check for any depressions or dimples in the metal surface.
- Damaged Gutters and Downspouts: Hail can also cause damage to your gutters and downspouts. Look for dents or cracks, as well as signs of displaced or bent sections.
- Water Stains on Interior Ceilings: If hail damage leads to leaks, you may notice water stains on your interior ceilings. This is a clear indicator that roof repairs are needed.
The Damage Different Hail Sizes Can Do
The size of hailstones can greatly impact the extent of damage to your roof. Hailstones come in various sizes, typically ranging from small to large. Here’s how different hail sizes can affect your roof:
- Small Hail (Pea-sized): Pea-sized hail is unlikely to cause significant damage to your roof. It may result in minor granule loss, but usually, it won’t require extensive repairs.
- Medium Hail (Marble-sized): Marble-sized hail can cause noticeable damage, including dents and cracks in shingles. Depending on the severity, repairs may be necessary.
- Large Hail (Golf ball-sized): Golf ball-sized hail can cause substantial damage. It can crack shingles, puncture roofing materials, and lead to leaks. Immediate repairs are essential.
- Very Large Hail (Baseball-sized or larger): Hailstones the size of baseballs or larger can cause severe damage, including structural issues. In such cases, professional repair or replacement of the entire roof may be required.
How to Make DIY Temporary Repairs in 4 Steps
If you’ve experienced hail damage to your roof and need to make temporary repairs to prevent further damage before a professional inspection, follow these steps:
1) Safety First:
Ensure your safety by using appropriate personal protective equipment and working on a dry, stable surface.
2) Cover Damaged Areas:
Use tarps or heavy-duty plastic to cover damaged areas of your roof. Secure them in place to prevent water infiltration.
3) Temporary Sealant:
Apply roofing cement or a temporary sealant to cracked or punctured areas. This can help stop leaks until permanent repairs can be made.
4) Document the Damage:
Take photographs of the damage and your temporary repairs. This documentation will be useful for insurance claims.
The Cost of Repairing Hail Roof Damage
The cost of repairing hail roof damage can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage and the type of roofing material. Here are some cost considerations:
- Inspection: Before repairs can begin, you’ll need to have your roof inspected by a professional. Inspection costs can range from $100 to $500.
- Minor Repairs: If the damage is minimal, such as replacing a few shingles, the cost may be relatively low, typically ranging from $200 to $500.
- Moderate Damage: For more extensive damage, including replacing sections of the roof, costs can range from $1,000 to $4,000 or more.
- Complete Roof Replacement: In severe cases where the entire roof needs replacement, costs can escalate significantly, reaching $5,000 to $12,000 or more, depending on the size and complexity of the roof.
- Insurance Deductibles: Your homeowner’s insurance may cover hail damage repairs, but you will need to pay a deductible. Deductibles typically range from $500 to $2,000.
Will Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Your Hail Damage?
Whether or not your homeowner’s insurance will cover hail damage to your roof depends on your policy and the specific circumstances of the damage. Here’s what you need to know:
- Policy Coverage: Check your insurance policy to see if it covers hail damage. Most standard policies do, but it’s essential to review the terms and conditions.
- Deductible: As mentioned earlier, you’ll be responsible for paying the deductible before your insurance kicks in. Make sure you know your deductible amount.
- Claims Process: If you believe you have hail damage, contact your insurance company promptly. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage and determine the coverage.
- Evidence: Provide documentation of the damage, including photos and any estimates from roofing contractors.
- Repairs: Once your claim is approved, you can proceed with repairs. Be sure to work with contractors approved by your insurance company.
Get a Professional Roofing Contractor to Help
Hail damage to your roof is a serious matter that requires prompt attention. Recognizing the signs of hail damage, understanding the impact of different hail sizes, and knowing how to make temporary repairs are crucial for protecting your home. By taking these steps, you can ensure that your home remains safe and secure even after a hailstorm.
Do you suspect your roof is dealing with hail damage? Contact Open Box Roofing today to schedule your professional roof inspection, and learn about your hail damage repair costs.
