When a storm has passed over your part of town, you may be wondering if the hail did more harm than is apparent from vantage points on the ground. Or perhaps you are looking to put a stop to what could become an expensive fix and a ceiling that is prone to leaking.
Since 2015 Elite Roofing has put those very concerns to rest for our homeowners. We are a licensed and insured Owens Corning Platinum Contractor (the top tier they have) and on hand 24/7. Give us a ring at (304) 758-9992 for a professional’s eye on any suspected damage.
One does not know with hail. The evidence can be plain to see or it can bide its time until a hard rain brings on some unwelcome trouble. In the following we put forward the warning signs to have in mind in the wake of a storm.
Why You Might Overlook Hail Damage
Hail is not going to put a neat hole in your roof as a rule. It will bruise and work at the materials shielding your home. Granules are dislodged from shingles, the mat below is compromised and before long water is seeping in. A roof may appear in good order from the street but be coming undone up above; this is the case for having a pro do an inspection when the hail has been bad.
What to See From the Ground
A trip around the property will turn up a few early indicators without the need for a ladder. Do not put yourself in any danger, but make note of:
- Dings on the metal of your gutters, downspouts or flashing
- Window screens that are torn
- Siding panels with cracks or breaks
- Shingle granules at the foot of the downspouts or in the gutters
- Vents, chimney caps and outdoor units with dents
- Any dented mailboxes or fence posts in the vicinity
These are a sure bet your roof was hit as well. Metal is a better tell of hail impact than shingles, so if the gutters are damaged the roof is likely in similar shape.
On the Roof
We would advise letting the professionals handle an inspection for the sake of safety, though one should be aware of what they are after once they get up there:
- Black spots in the shape of a circle from missing granules
- Softness akin to a bruised apple
- Shingles that are split, cracked or not there at all
- Asphalt left bare and shiny
- A weakened shingle due to mat damage
- Flashing about the vents and chimneys that is loose or dented
Our team is familiar with where such issues like to be and an inspection by us will be thorough, covering every edge, valley and slope.
Indoor Warning Signs
It can be weeks after a storm before you find out indoors the roof has been hurt. Watch for water stains on a wall or ceiling, peeling paint in the area of the roofline, dampness or discoloration in the attic, or a mustiness indicative of moisture. When interior stains are present, water has been making its way in for some time already. Prompt action is the only way to limit the damage.
There Is No Point in Waiting
The damage will not mend on its own and a weak spot can develop into a leak with the next storm. Then there is the matter of insurance claims; too much delay and you run afoul of policy time limits on reporting. An inspection will ease your mind. Should the roof be sound, you have your answer. If not, an early catch means lower costs and a secure home.
Let Us Help
We service residential and commercial clients and our capabilities extend to siding, gutters, demolition, generators and dumpster rentals. If the hail has been unkind to more than the roof we can put right the whole situation. We also offer financing and free estimates to lay out your options, and our 100% satisfaction guarantee is on every job. For assistance with your insurance claim to relieve some of the post-storm stress, or to have our licensed and insured crew come look at things, call Elite Roofing at (304) 758-9992. We are here around the clock to see you back to normal.
