How to Evaluate Storm Damage to Your Roof | A Guide for Homeowners

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Your shingles are responsible for protecting your roof from water damage and helping to insulate your home. After a storm, it’s important to evaluate your roof for hail damage to shingles. Taking the extra time to evaluate your roof can save you hundreds of dollars in damage repair down the road. It can be difficult, however, to differentiate hail damage from regular wear. If you don’t know what to look for, don’t worry. Follow this guide from Minnesota Home Improvements and learn what you need to look for.

How Does Hail Cause Damage to Shingles?

The extent of your hail damage can depend on a variety of factors like the grade of your shingles, the slope, and the amount of attic space ventilation. In addition, the severity of the hailstorm can vary with stone size, wind speed, and the angle of impact all playing a role.

No matter the factors, all hail damage to roof shingles is caused by impact. Differentiating this impact can be difficult, however, especially when viewed next to normal wear and tear. Whether you need to file an insurance claim or replace the hail-damaged shingles, you should be able to distinguish hail damage on your roof.

Differentiating Hail Damaged Shingles

There are a few different types of damage that you should be looking for when evaluating your roof.

  • Bruising – Bruising is a sure sign of hail damage. During an inspection, you’ll see a series of shallow craters along the shingles. Even if these impacts haven’t resulted in holes, they will if you leave them to deteriorate.
  • Blistering – When you inspect the shingles closely, you may see a series of small bubbles running along the material. Some homeowners mistake this blistering for small hail impacts. This type of shingle damage is often caused by poor roof ventilation.
  • Cracking and Flaking – If you see cracks or flakes along the shingles, know that this is a natural part of weathering.
  • Curling – Shingles often curl or cup at the edges over time, due to natural weathering. Some homeowners might worry that this curling is a cause of hail impact near the edges of the shingles. Don’t worry if you see cupping at the edges, this phenomenon is not a result of hail damage.
  • Nail Popping – A few of your shingles may look elevated. If this happens to your roof, be sure to evaluate your shingles for raised nails. Elevated nails push the shingle up and can cause holes if left untreated.

How to Remove and Replace Damaged Shingles

Now that you’ve evaluated your roof, you’ll need to remove and replace the damaged shingles. Working with an experienced roofing service is the best way to ensure that your roof will adequately fight the elements.

For the best experience, partner with Minnesota Home Improvements. One of our experts will come to your home, inspect your roof, and can give you an estimate. Get started by reaching out and requesting a quote.

The post How to Evaluate Storm Damage to Your Roof | A Guide for Homeowners appeared first on MN Home Improvements.

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