Mitigate for Hail Damage by Summer Storms

The structural stability of your roof and the aesthetic appeal of your property are greatly affected by hail damage by summer storms in Colorado. Hail is created when raindrops are lifted by updrafts in thunderstorms into freezing temperatures, resulting in various sizes of hailstones ranging from tiny pebbles to large, destructive spheres. Although hail damage is a concern regardless of the weather, it is especially detrimental when it happens during scorching summer days.

Why is Hail Damage by Summer Storms So Destructive?

On a hot day, the hailstones that fall during a storm have a higher chance of causing severe damage to a roof. The reason for this lies in the difference in temperature between the hailstones and the hot surface of the roof. When hailstones make contact with a roof, the extreme temperature contrast can cause the shingles or roofing material to expand and contract rapidly. This leads to cracks or even complete breakage.

Also, the hot summer weather can cause the roof material to be more vulnerable to hail impact due to its softened state. The extreme heat causes asphalt shingles, for example, to become more pliable, making them more prone to denting and puncturing. This softening increases the likelihood of hailstones penetrating the protective layers of the roof and can cause damage to the underlying structure.

In addition to the immediate physical damage caused by hailstones, there can be long-term consequences for the roof’s longevity. Even seemingly minor hail damage, such as dented or cracked shingles, can compromise the roof’s ability to provide adequate protection against water seeping in. This can lead to outright leaks, rot, and further degradation of the roof. It could potentially result in expensive repairs or even the need for a full roof replacement.

To mitigate the effects of hail damage by summer storms, homeowners can take some preventive measures. Here are some recommendations:

Install impact-resistant roofing materials: Consider upgrading to materials that are designed to withstand hail damage. Materials such as impact-resistant shingles or metal roofs have a higher resistance to hail and will provide better protection for your roof.
Trim trees nearby: Trim back any branches that are close to or hanging over your roof to minimize the chances of them breaking or causing additional damage during a hailstorm.
Reinforce vulnerable areas: Identify places on your roof, such as valleys, flashing, or areas around vents and chimneys that may require a little reinforcement. Ensure that they are properly sealed and protected to reduce the likelihood of water infiltration and damage caused by hail impact.
Install protective barriers: Consider installing hail guards or screens over vulnerable areas of your roof. These barriers can help absorb the impact of hailstones and prevent them from directly hitting the roof surface which reduces potential damage.
Regularly inspect the roof: Schedule regular roof inspections by a professional to identify any existing vulnerabilities or signs of damage. A professional roofer can assess the condition of your roof, spot potential weak points, and recommend appropriate repairs or maintenance to strengthen your roof against hail damage by summer storms.
Monitor weather forecasts: Stay informed about weather conditions in your area, especially during the summer months when hailstorms are more common. If a severe storm is predicted, take precautions such as moving vehicles and outdoor furniture under cover to minimize potential damage from hail.
While these preventive measures can help reduce the risk of hail damage by summer storms, it’s important to have adequate insurance coverage for your home. Review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure it provides coverage for hail damage, especially here in Colorado.

Remember, you can’t protect your roof completely from what mother nature dishes out but, there are some precautions and preparations you can make. The best defense is always a good offense so keep up with visual inspections and tackle potential issues before they become huge problems. If you need a professional for a free, honest, no obligation visual inspection, contact HRTI today.