Alberta hailstorms don’t just dent your shingles; they can compromise your roof’s structural integrity. Knowing what to check for after a storm helps you catch damage early, which can lower your repair or replacement costs and prevent minor issues from turning into costly insurance claims down the road.
While hail damage is rarely visible from the ground, an expert roof inspection is required to tally the damage and help homeowners figure out their next steps.
Signs Your Roof May be Damaged by Hail
Granule loss, bruising, and cracks and fractures are some of the most common telltale signs of hail damage. Bruising can impact the roof’s internal structure, so call a roofing expert if you suspect you have a leaky roof or structural damage.
After hail damage, a roof replacement or a minor repair may be required. Here’s how to know when to do each one. It’s critical to find out and act quickly if you need to repair exterior damage to prevent interior issues, like leaks and attic ventilation problems. Waiting to check for hail damage in October after a spring hail storm is not ideal and could lead to costly problems.
Roof repairs from hail damage may be needed when:
- Shingles/roof are relatively new
- Only a small area is damaged
- No signs of leaks or moisture on the ceilings
When Roof Repair is Not Enough | Signs You Need a Replacement
Large hailstones can cause fractures to your home’s shingles that push through waterproof barriers protecting your home from major leaks. Granule loss is another sign you may need to replace your roof. Other signs include:
- Major damage to your roof
- Mould or water damage on your ceiling
- Cracked or curled shingles
- An older roof
- Granule loss covers a large area
Does Insurance Cover Hail Damage?
A standard home insurance policy will cover structural hail damage if the homeowner files an insurance claim. When filing an insurance claim, make sure you have the required documentation, including photos of the hail damage (if safe to do so), detailed notes of the damage, and the date and time of the hail storm. While you have two years from the date of the incident to file a claim, it’s always better to file a claim as soon as possible to avoid further issues to your roof and your home’s interior, and to have the storm damage documented properly. Call your insurance provider and speak with a representative to file a claim.
Preventative Measures to Protect Your Roof
It’s important to minimize hail damage to your home’s roof, if possible, to lessen the chances you’ll have to file a claim in the future. Preventive measures include using hail-resistant roofing and siding materials and making minor repairs so a hail storm is less likely to cause a roof leak or structural damage.
Get a Free Estimate on Your Roof
Our roofing and siding experts are ready when you need them. Since 1953, A. Clark Roofing & Siding has been serving clients in Calgary and Edmonton.
Contact A. Clark Roofing & Siding today for a free, no-obligation quote for a roof inspection, repair or replacement.
