Hail storms can be major threats to the integrity and life of your roof. At Austermiller, we’ve discussed the importance of a quality roof and how it can impact a multitude of things. From your home’s curb appeal, value, and simply the protection a quality roof can provide to a home.
If a roof is compromised or damaged from any severe weather, it can create further issues to your roof than just a missing shingle or dent. Hail storms in particular can be the worst offender to the life of your roof.
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to understanding the importance of a sturdy and strong roof. Let’s explore the impact hail can have on a roof and ways to ensure your home’s roof is hail proof safe to the best of your ability!
What is Hail?
Before we really dive into the impact of hail on a roof, we need to gather a concrete understanding of hail. Simply put, hail is solid ice that forms during a thunderstorm’s updraft. The weight of hail can be as heavy as 1 pound, which is as heavy as an apple or grapefruit. If a hail storm does come through your area, and is on the larger size, then there is a chance that it can cause damage to cars, windows, and roofs.
Hail Damage in Tennessee
Tennessee has encountered a few severe hail storms in previous years wreaking havoc on homes and vehicles. In May of 2024, Williamson county experienced a hail storm producing hail the size of 3 inches, which is about the size of an apple. From this storm the national weather service reported that homes and cars were impacted by the hail.
Which Roofing Materials Are Least Susceptible to Hail Damage?
While well-built roofs are sturdy to withstand most storms, there are some storms that are so severe they will cause some damage. However, different types of roofing material will provide more protection than others from severe storms. Some roofing material that is least susceptible to hail damage includes:
- Metal roofing provides strong durability, with a slippery surface, which prevents hail from too much damage as it is more likely to slide off the surface.
- Impact-resistant shingles are another type of material that can help prevent damage from hail, wind, and other severe weather conditions.
- Rubber roofing material is also a top choice for preventing damage from hail, however it is not ideal for residential areas.
When you are looking for the ideal roof to help prevent hail damage, it is always best to consult with an experienced roofing company and roofer. They can help you determine the best option for your home to help provide protection and longevity for your home’s roof. Which in the end allows you to save extra money and time!
“Most people have a plumber in their contact list, or an electrician. A roofer should be included in your contacts too. Why not let it be an Austermiller roofer!” – Penny Austermiller
Which Roofing Materials Are More Susceptible to Hail Damage?
There are also roofing materials that are known to be more susceptible to hail damage that every homeowner should be aware of to help make a better decision when selecting their roofing material. Asphalt material is one popular roofing material that can experience granule loss, damaged, or broken shingles from the impact of hail. Wood shakes are another kind of roofing material that also does not do well with hail impact. Splits and cracks can occur in wood shakes from a severe hail storm.
If these types of roofing materials receive a serious amount of hail damage, it will not only be a potential eye sore, but can lead to long term damages to your roof and home.
What is the Long-Term Impact of Hail Damage?
If you are in an area where hail is no stranger, then you may have had your fair share of hail storms. This in combination with a poor quality roof can lead to hail damage, which can create long term issues for your roof and home. Some long term issues of a damaged roof from hail include:
Leaks and Openings
If your roof has leaks and openings that are not repaired or restored quickly, then your roof will be more susceptible to long term damage. Leaks in a roof impact the integrity and structure of the roof, which could result in a full roof overall. If hail creates openings in the roof then this may create the perfect environment for outside critters and animals to enter. Leading to even more of a headache and money spent to correct this type of damage.
Mold Growth
Mold growth in any place in a home is bad news. When mold growth begins on your roof, this can cause your roof to rot or decay, and shingles to erode over time if not taken care of sooner rather than later. If this type of growth spreads further then you may be looking at a full roof replacement, not just a repair of one area. Beside the impact it will have on your roof, mold growth can impact the physical well-being of homeowners if not treated properly.
Increase in Energy Bill
If a roof is damaged by hail with leaks or openings, then hot or cool air can quickly escape through any gaps in your roof. This can lead to an increase in energy bill as you, and your home, try to keep your space hot or cool without knowing it’s escaping through your damaged roof! Over time you’ll not only find an increase in your heating and air bill, but also more time and money spent on a roof compromised from a hail storm.
Why is Hail Damage to Roof Bad?
The longer home owners go without repairing a roof from hail or any form of weather damage, they will most likely be spending more money in the long haul. Sometimes roof damages can be so severe that the entire roof needs to be replaced, which can be a headache for some homeowners if it catches them off guard.
How to Tell if Your Roof is Damaged From a Hail Storm
So, what are the signs to look for when a hail storm comes through to see if your roof was damaged from the storm? There are some obvious signs, and some that may not be so clear.
Some visible signs of severe hail can be seen simply on the ground after the storm. If you notice that the size of the hail is larger than 1 inch, then chances are your roof faced some damage. You’ll also want to look around to see if you notice any missing shingles from your roof or some that may have fallen to the ground. You may also want to scan your roof below for any visible signs of dents.
From inside your home you can also look for water spots on your roof, which could signal a leak. Also check your attic for any signs of moisture or damage to the insulation.
If you are not able to visibly see damage on your roof, but notice that the size of the hail was more than 1 inch, it is best to seek out a professional roofer to examine its condition. They will be able to come to your home and safely inspect your roof to ensure that there is no damage, or find any hidden damage that you were not aware of. When there is damage to a roof from a hail storm, then the clock starts regarding contacting your insurance provider to see what next steps need to be taken.
Is Hail Damage Covered by Insurance
The answer to this question is rather complicated. Yes, insurance can cover hail damage, but there are a few specifics that come into play. There are two common coverages that insurance companies offer which are Actual Cash Value (ACV) and Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policies. Each policy offers different coverage for different conditions and damages, and it will be important for you to connect with a credible insurance provider to review your options.
More specifically to hail damage and insurance coverage, this is more nuanced as it will be based on hail impact, the timeline of creating a claim, and the severity of the damage. Just because a hail storm occurred will not necessarily mean you’ll get a new roof fully covered.
Either way, it is always recommended to look into the benefits of having insurance on your home and roof to be on the safe side. A skilled roofer can objectively help you determine what your next steps could look like if you are looking for insurance, especially if you are in an area prone to hail storms.
Quality Roofing with Austermiller Roofing
If you are looking for quality roofing with quality roofers then check out all we offer with Austermiller roofing. We provide an array of roofing material options to best suit your home and the protection you’re looking for.
You can connect with one of our skilled roofers who can provide you with a free roofing estimate. If you believe your home’s roof has experienced some damage from a hail storm, or are simply looking for repairs or overhaul, we can help you navigate your next steps.