Protect Your Roof from Hail in 7 Easy Steps

Hailstorms are not just loud; they can wreak havoc on your roof, which is your home’s first line of defense. Whether it’s granule loss, cracks, or dents from flying hailstones, roof damage can leave your home vulnerable to water leakage and costly repairs. But with the right measures, you can significantly protect your home and reduce the impact of hailstorms. 

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about hail damage and offer actionable steps to protect your roof with help from us, Bears Valley Roofing, your trusted local expert in roof repair and replacement. 

Understanding Hail Damage 

What Is Hail and How Does It Form? 

Hail forms when updrafts in storms carry moisture into colder atmospheric layers, where it freezes into ice balls that fall when they’re too heavy to stay aloft. Hailstones can range from pea-sized to as large as softballs, each posing a significant threat to your roof. 

Types of Hail Damage 

Hail can affect roofing materials in many ways depending on the storm’s strength and your roof’s condition. Here are the four most common forms of hail damage:

• Granule Loss: Hailstorms can knock granules off asphalt shingles, exposing the underlying asphalt to UV rays and reducing its lifespan.
• Cracks and Splits: Wood shingles are prone to cracking or splitting when hit hard by hail, leaving sharp edges and openings for leaks.
• Fractured Mat: Beneath the surface of asphalt shingles is a mat layer that can crack under extreme hail impact, compromising the shingle’s structural integrity.
• Dents in Metal: Metal roofs, vents, or gutters can get dented by hail, which may lower the roof system’s efficiency.

What Factors Increase the Severity of Hail Damage? 

Not every roof is equally at risk of severe hail damage. The following factors can affect the outcome of a storm on your roof:

• Hailstone Size: Larger hailstones cause more significant damage. Stones larger than a quarter can be particularly destructive.
• Roofing Material: Metal, tile, asphalt, and wood shingles all react differently to hail impacts. Metal roofs may dent but remain functional, while asphalt shingles might lose protective granules.
• Wind Speed and Direction: Strong winds during a hailstorm can drive hailstones into surfaces at sharper angles, increasing the damage potential.
• Age of Roof: An older or poorly maintained roof is more vulnerable to damage compared to a newer roof with updated materials.

Preparing Your Roof for Hailstorms 

Inspect Your Roof Regularly 

Prevention starts with regular inspections to identify any existing vulnerabilities. Here’s how to get started:

• Look for loose, curling, or missing shingles.
• Check for granules collecting in gutters or on the ground.
• Ensure metal roofs and flashing don’t show early signs of rust or dents.

Pro Tip: While DIY inspections can identify obvious problems, it’s best to hire professionals like Bears Valley Roofing annually for a more thorough assessment. 

Reinforce Your Roof 

Upgrading your roof with hail-resistant materials can make a big difference. Consider these reinforcements:

• Impact-Resistant Shingles: Class 4 shingles are designed to withstand hail without cracking.
• Metal Roofing: Sturdy metal roofs can provide additional durability while being resilient to dents.
• Additional Fasteners: Reinforcing your roof with more fasteners can minimize shingle movement in strong winds.

Protect Vulnerable Areas 

Your roof isn’t the only area that needs protection during hailstorms:

• Install hail guards or screens on skylights and windows to prevent shattered glass.
• Secure vents and chimneys with durable covers to protect from debris impact.

What To Do During a Hailstorm 

When a hailstorm hits, staying calm and taking the right precautions can minimize damage. 

• Monitor Weather Alerts: Keep an eye on storm warnings to give yourself enough time to prepare.
• Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in patio furniture, plants, or decorative items that might get damaged or turned into projectiles.
• Protect Windows: Close blinds and curtains to prevent injury from shattering glass.

Post-Hailstorm Inspection and Repairs 

Identifying Hail Damage 

After the storm passes, inspect your roof carefully:

• Look for dented gutters, missing shingles, or granule loss in your gutters.
• From the ground, use binoculars to spot issues on hard-to-reach areas.

If you discover any damage, call Bears Valley Roofing for a professional assessment. Attempting roof repairs yourself may lead to missed damage or worsen existing problems. 

Filing an Insurance Claim 

Filing a claim can help cover the repair or replacement costs. Follow these steps:

1. Document the Damage: Take clear photos of all visible roof issues, as well as dents in gutters or external structures.
2. Contact Your Insurance Provider: Submit the necessary documentation and schedule an adjuster inspection.
3. Work with Professionals: At Bears Valley Roofing, we can provide an in-depth damage report, helping to ensure smooth claim approval. We also work with your insurance to maximize your return.

Long-Term Prevention and Maintenance 

Trim Overhanging Trees 

Branches that hang directly over your roof pose a significant hazard during hailstorms. Keep them trimmed to reduce the risk of branches breaking off and causing damage. 

Regular Maintenance 

Clean gutters and downspouts at least twice a year to ensure proper drainage during storms. Blockages can cause water to back up onto your roof, weakening it further after hail damage. 

Review Your Insurance Policy 

Not all policies include hail damage coverage. Make sure your homeowner’s insurance provides adequate protection and, if possible, consider policies that offer discounts for hail-resistant materials. 

Partner with Bears Valley Roofing to Protect Your Roof 

Your roof isn’t just a layer of protection; it’s what keeps your home safe and secure. Being proactive about its maintenance and preparedness can save you from unexpected repair costs after a hailstorm. 

At Bears Valley Roofing, we specialize in roof inspections, repairs, and replacements tailored to withstand even the harshest weather. Our team of experts ensures that your roof is resilient and equipped to handle whatever nature throws your way. 

Contact us today to schedule an inspection or to learn more about hail-resistant roofing options. Don’t wait for the next storm to protect your home.