It’s hail storm season in Calgary, and you probably wonder: how does hail damage my roof? Do I need a roof inspection? Does my insurance cover it?
Here is what you need to know!
How do you know if there is any damage at all?
First, look around your backyard, your patio items, and your deck if you see any damage there chances are there is a damage on the roof as well.
Now it is time to get on your roof, but be careful, inspecting a roof can be dangerous, and it is crucial to have proper safety gear and knowledge. Many contractors offer free roof inspection, so don’t hesitate to contact a professional before risking your safety.
Identify the damage; Severity of hail damage to a roof depends on hail size, density, shape, and velocity. These factors are hard to find out on time in order to take any preventive actions but you can identify the type of damage after the fact nevertheless.
There are two types of roof hail damage you can find on your shingles:
- Functional
– Damage that compromises integrity and longevity of the roof.
- Cosmetic
– Damage that does not affect the viability of the roof, but it gives a lousy appearance.
Functional damage to asphalt shingles may include:
- Punctures
- Pears
- Fractures
- The most common damage- displacement of granules.
Displacement of granules occurs when granules have been knocked off by the impact of hailstones hitting the roof but 
what’s the big deal if a few pellets come loose?
The loss of granules imperils the shingles, and when the asphalt is exposed directly to the sun, it becomes susceptible to UV light and creates a crack that can lead to a roof leak.
Cosmetic damage – usually called hail splatter – occurs when slushy type hail leaves a discolored mark or stains on your roof. It can be used to determine the size of the hailstone, but the stamps themselves usually don’t compromise the function of shingles.
What size of hail can damage a roof?
Many factors can influence damage potential, such as:
Roof type, roofing material quality, installation methods, shingle layers, roof slope, wind speeds, etc.
If your roof holds one sheet of conventional asphalt shingles, it usually takes a 1″ or above diameter hailstone to cause roof hail damage. Roofs with multiple shingle layers may be damaged by smaller hailstones, due to a softer support surface directly under the top shingle layer.
Comparing hailstones to these common objects will help you identify the size.
- Pea = 1/4-inch
- Marble = 1/2-inch
- Dime or penny = 3/4-inch
- Nickel = 7/8-inch
- Quarter = 1 inch
- Golf Ball = 1½ inches
- Tennis Ball = 2½ inches
Does insurance cover the hail damage?
Most insurance policies cover functional damage but not cosmetic damage to your roof, depends on your policy and harm extension. Only a trained professional can determine whether it is functional or cosmetic. Remember, insurance companies are always looking for reasons not to replace your roof. Therefore, it is crucial to have your contractor and your insurance adjuster inspecting the roof at the same time. Once they have an agreement, they will lead you to the next steps.
If you have any questions or comments please leave a comment below.
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