In Ballantyne, NC, sudden severe weather like hailstorms can cause hidden roof damage that may lead to leaks and costly repairs. Identifying hail damage early is key to protecting your home. If you suspect damage, contact Seven Twelve Roofing in Ballantyne, N for a professional assessment and expert advice.
Understanding Roof Hail Damage
Roof hail damage happens when hailstones strike your roof, causing functional or cosmetic harm. Functional damage affects the roof’s ability to shed water, while cosmetic damage impacts appearance. Even minor cosmetic issues, like granule loss, can expose underlying materials and speed up aging.
Hail damage is typically identified by random dents and pockmarks, unlike uniform wear and tear. Professionals can spot these subtle signs early, preventing minor issues from becoming major problems.
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How Hail Impacts Roofing Materials
Hail impacts roofing materials differently. On asphalt shingles, hail knocks off protective granules, causing dark spots that shorten shingle life and can lead to leaks and water damage. Wood shakes may split or crack, allowing water in. Metal roofs often get dents; severe impacts can compromise their coating and cause rust. Even tile roofing can crack or shatter from large hailstones, requiring prompt replacement to prevent leaks. Unlike normal wear, hail damage appears as sharp, defined impact points.
Differences Between Hail Damage and Other Issues
Hail damage can be hard to distinguish from other roof issues. Hail causes random, circular granule loss, while age leads to uniform wear, and water runoff affects specific pathways. Blistering may look similar but forms raised, air-filled spots, unlike the depressions from hail.
Hail damage often includes dents on gutters, vents, and siding, with widespread impact marks across surfaces. Sun exposure causes patterned cracking, different from hail’s sharp fractures. A professional inspection is essential to accurately identify damage sources and prevent future leaks.
Common Signs of Hail Damage on Roofs
After a hail storm, you might be wondering what signs of hail damage you should be looking for on your roof, especially on your roof shingles. The most common indicators are found on asphalt shingles, as they are susceptible to various forms of impact. You’ll want to look for dents, bruises, and areas where the protective granules have been knocked off.
These impact marks might appear as small, dark spots where the shingle’s underlying layer is exposed. In more severe cases, you may even see cracked or missing shingles. Let’s explore these signs in more detail.
Dents, Bruises, and Granule Loss on Shingles
Visible roof damage from hail often appears as dents or bruises, indicating this type of damage, impact, and potential stress to the material. These marks may not break through but can lead to more serious problems. A professional inspection can assess the severity and need for further checks.
Granule loss on asphalt shingles is another key sign of hail damage. Missing granules expose your roof to UV rays, water leaks, and mold. Promptly addressing these issues helps prevent costly repairs.
Cracked or Missing Shingles
Cracked, fractured, or missing shingles are clear signs of hail damage. Hail can split or crack asphalt shingles, compromising your roof’s integrity and leading to leaks or mold if not addressed. Damage severity depends on hail size and wind direction. A professional inspection helps determine whether repairs or a full replacement are needed. Prompt action protects your property and prevents costly repairs.
How Hail Size and Storm Intensity Affect Roof Damage
Not all hailstorms are created equal. The amount of roof damage and property damage your home sustains depends heavily on the size of the hail and the intensity of the storm. Small, pea-sized hail might only cause minor cosmetic issues, while larger hailstones can cause extensive damage and severe structural harm.
Wind also plays a major role in inclement weather. High winds and wind speed can drive hail at greater speeds and at an angle, increasing the force of the impact marks and the likelihood of significant damage. The direction of the wind determines which slopes of your roof will bear the brunt of the storm.
Small vs. Large Hail: Severity of Impact
Hail size and the size of hail greatly affects roofing damage. Small hailstones (under one inch) may cause minor dents but rarely compromise roofing integrity. Larger hailstones (over one inch) can cause significant harm, such as granule loss, deep dents, or cracks—often requiring professional inspection and possible new roof repairs or replacement.
Recognizing hail damage early is important for homeowners, as it influences repair needs and insurance claims. Prompt detection ensures effective solutions and peace of mind.
The Role of Roof Pitch in Damage Resistance
Roof design and materials affect damage resistance. Steeper pitches, like the ideal 7:12 slope, deflect hailstones and shed water effectively—reflected in our name, Seven Twelve Roofing.
Quality materials matter too. As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor, we install durable, impact-resistant products from trusted brands like Owens Corning. Choosing superior materials helps your roof last longer and protects your home against hail and severe weather.
What to Do Immediately After Suspecting Hail Damage
If you suspect hail damage, act quickly but safely. First, document the storm’s date and time. Inspect your home visually from the ground—never climb on the roof. Next, contact a professional roofer for a thorough inspection and proper documentation for insurance claims.
Safety First: Steps to Take Before Inspection
Always prioritize safety before inspecting a roof. Check weather conditions first—avoid inspections during heavy rain or strong winds. Observe the roof from a safe distance and note any visible damage.
If you must go onto the roof, wear safety gear like a hard hat and non-slip shoes, and inform someone of your plans. Taking these precautions ensures a thorough, safe inspection and peace of mind.
How to Perform a Visual Check Before Calling Expert
A visual inspection is key to assessing roof hail damage. Use binoculars from a safe distance to spot dents, cracks, or granule loss on shingles and impact marks on metal roofing. Check gutters and downspouts for debris that may indicate damage.
Look for water stains on ceilings or walls, as these can signal roof leaks. Collecting this information beforehand helps you communicate concerns clearly and assists the roofing contractor in their assessment.
Our Commitment to Quality and Care
When you have roof damage in Ballantyne, you need a roofing contractor you can trust. At Seven Twelve Roofing, we focus on quality, care, and transparency. We treat your home as our own, combining local expertise with skilled craftsmanship for every repair or replacement.
After a hailstorm, a professional roof inspection is essential to identify all damage that may not be visible to the untrained eye. Our experienced team provides thorough assessments and guides you through each step—from inspection to insurance policies—ensuring a smooth, stress-free process.
Core Values Guided by the Golden Rule
Seven Twelve Roofing is named after the Golden Rule in Matthew 7:12: “Do to others what you would have them do to you.” This guiding principle shapes our commitment to treating every customer with respect, honesty, and care. With us, you can expect transparent communication, fair pricing, and a roofer who truly cares about your home. You’re not just another job—you’re a neighbor. Our name is our promise. We strive to ensure you feel protected and confident in our work—a commitment that has made us a trusted choice for Ballantyne homeowners.
Industry Awards and Trusted Brands
Seven Twelve Roofing is an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor and GAF Contractor, meeting the industry’s highest standards for professionalism and craftsmanship. Our factory-trained team installs roofing systems from trusted brands like Owens Corning, ensuring durability. With recognized expertise and local knowledge of Ballantyne, NC’s climate, we protect your investment and simplify homeowners insurance claims. Choose us for proven quality and dedicated service.
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In conclusion, spotting and addressing roof hail damage is essential to protecting your home. Understanding the signs and effects on different roofing materials helps you take proactive measures. At Seven Twelve Roofing, we treat every customer with care and respect, guided by the Golden Rule. As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor and GAF Contractor, our quality is recognized industry-wide. If you suspect hail damage, contact us for expert help and peace of mind.
Read our blog: What to Expect During a Roofing Estimate
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my roof has hail damage by sight?
From the ground, you can spot hail damage by looking for visible dents on your gutters, downspouts, and metal roof vents. You might also see dark, circular impact marks on your shingles or find an accumulation of shingle granules near downspouts. However, only a professional can safely assess the full extent of the damage.
Is it safe to wait before repairing hail damage, or should I act immediately?
You should act immediately. Waiting to repair hail damage allows water to seep in, which can lead to roof leaks, mold growth, and rotting wood. What starts as minor shingle damage can quickly turn into costly repairs, so it’s best to contact your insurance company and a roofer right away.