A hail storm poses a double threat to roofing: hailstones can cause dents while strong winds can blow away shingles. These two threats mean homeowners should inspect their roof after a hailstorm, regardless of how short it may be. Mobley Brothers Roofing & Restoration recommends you keep an eye out for these signs.
Wind Damage, Exterior
Strong winds can damage your roof either by blowing roofing tiles off or slam flying debris to your roof. In general, you should look for the following on specific areas of your roof:
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Homes in general – curled, broken, less-granulated, or missing composition shingles; decaying or moldy wooden shingles; excess or crumbling roofing cement
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Buildings with a flat roof – cracks or blisters on the roof
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Gutters – missing or rusty parts, accumulated debris
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Chimneys – leaning sections, damaged bricks
In particular, check the edges of your roofing system as the shingles there are vulnerable to wind damage.
Wind Damage, Interior
Missing shingles or cracks can let water in, causing the following signs to appear:
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Walls and ceilings – moisture stains or peeling paint
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Attic – damp rafters or leaks
Hail Damage
Looks for dents in your roof vents, gutters, screens, siding, windowsills, and on any outdoor appliance or vehicle. External damage to parts of your roof and the surrounding area are relatively easy to spot, but it’s not as easy when it comes to shingles.
The impact from hailstones might loosen some of the granules on shingles. Keep in mind that the damage may not be visible during your first inspection. If you miss some signs of damage and they’re left untreated, rain will eventually wash the granules away. Without the granules, water can seep in over time and cause leaks in your interior.
Since there’s a chance you might not notice all of the signs of damage, we recommend calling a roofing contractor to inspect your roof after a hailstorm or any extreme weather event. Left unattended, minor dents and loose granules can post a more serious threat later on.
In severe cases of storm damage, however, you might need a residential roof replacement. You should only hire qualified contractors with certifications to prevent further damage to your home. Mobley Brothers Roofing & Restoration, a GAF Master Elite® contractor, offers roof replacement and repair services. To get a roof inspection, call (865) 444-6060 or (615) 645-4500 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Knoxville and Lebanon, TN.
