Roofs generally require replacement every 30 years, typically because of damage caused by strong winds, storms, hail breaks, or heavy sticks. However, some damages can occur at even more frequent intervals. Essentially, the roof may be aging before its time. Side wind, earth–drain, and debris may cause significant damage to a shingle. In coastal and saltwater locations, wind damage can leave a roof in poor condition with deterioration as early as 15 to 20 years.
Hail damage is one of those incidences where quick response and appropriate action can· help save your investment· prevent further damage to the roof· delay future repairs· save you time and money.
One of the best clues to viable hail damage is often the presence of granules. Galls, workup, or flaking can appear on the surface of the shingle. If you are commonly exposed to strong hail, such damage may appear on the surface of your shingles too. If the inside of the shingle looks like it has been severely damaged, take the pan out and walk around and inspect your rooftop.
You can leak your insurance policy effectively if you have been provided with homeowner’s insurance for hail damage. If you haven’t received an estimate through your insurance company inquire with your insurance agent if your insurance company will pay a portion of the cost of replacing your shingles.
For those who specialize in hail damage, it is usually best to call a certified restoration company that can respond expediently to your request. Make sure to let the hail damage restoration professionals you choose to check the structural integrity of your roof first. Not every hail damage is alike.
Keep in mind that if you have homeowner’s insurance hail damage coverage, your insurance policy usually includes two forms of coverage: (1) bodily harm including broken glass or serious damage caused by hailstones, and (2) property damage.
Usually, if a roof repair is needed to cover the cost of repairing the hail damage, the insurance company will reimburse the homeowner for the amount of the damages. Since the initial impact of the hail strike is quite minimal, damage to the interior of the home is not generally covered by insurance.
After assessing the damages, a professional inspector can help homeowners understand their options regarding the full restoration process that is necessary to salvage a damaged roof.
Because hail damage is actually quite common, homeowners should not buy anything to add to the total weight of the roof on their homes. A roof weighing over 35 pounds is quite a bit more substantial than that which has only a few grains of grit, granules, and other valuable roofing accessories. Properly restoring your damaged roof will require that a new roof be installed on your home.
After this has been completed, and it is after the roof has been properly tested for safe weather tightness, a sealant is applied to the entire roof. Finally, the nails and hardware are replaced, and the area is treated with a product that will eliminate moss growth from forming (oil-based products are recommended). Some excess coating is probably necessary in order to properly enhance the roof coating. The effects of age on a roof will definitely be evident, but most of these damage occurrences are pretty small and require very little immediate attention.
