Understanding Hail Damage on Asphalt Shingles
Hailstorms pose a significant threat to roofs, particularly those covered with asphalt shingles. Hail damage manifests in various forms, including indentations, fractures, and circular areas where granules are missing. Severe hail impact can crack shingles, weakening the roof’s ability to shed water effectively.
Key Effects of Hail Damage
- Granule Loss and Asphalt Exposure:
- Hail impact can loosen or dislodge granules from the shingle surface.
- Missing granules expose the asphalt layer, accelerating oxidation due to prolonged UV exposure.
- Premature aging of shingles can occur, compromising roof integrity.
- Delayed Damage Visibility:
- Hail damage might not be immediately visible.
- Over time, circular or elliptical areas may appear as granules become dislodged.
- Indentations on vents, gutters, siding, AC units, and other metal objects are indicators of hail impact.
Recommendations for Post-Hailstorm Roof Inspection
- Professional Roof Inspection:
- In the aftermath of a hailstorm, it is crucial to have your roof inspected by a trusted roofing contractor.
- Hail can damage specific areas randomly, affecting only a few houses in a neighborhood.
- Installation of Impact-Resistant Shingles:
- For areas prone to hailstorms, consider installing impact-resistant shingles.
- These shingles are tested using the UL 2218 steel ball test and are rated for their durability.
- A Class 4 rating, the highest, requires shingles to withstand multiple impacts from a 2-inch steel ball dropped from 20 feet.
- Owens Corning offers Class 4 impact-resistant shingles, including Duration FLEX®, Duration Storm®, and WeatherGuard® HP.
Importance of Impact-Resistant Shingles
- Durability and Protection:
- Impact-resistant shingles help minimize damage from hail and debris.
- They provide a robust solution for enhancing roof longevity in hail-prone areas.
Owens Corning Warranty Disclaimer
- Warranty Coverage:
- It is important to note that damage caused by hail is not covered under the Owens Corning® Standard Product Limited Warranty or extended protection warranties.
- Always review the actual warranty for complete details, limitations, and requirements.
Conclusion
For residents in hail-prone regions, investing in impact-resistant shingles and conducting regular roof inspections can significantly mitigate hail damage. Ensuring your roof’s resilience against harsh weather conditions is essential for long-term protection.
For Immediate Service or Consultation
Contact Allied Emergency Services, INC.
Phone: 1-800-792-0212
Email: Info@AlliedEmergencyServices.com
Location: Serving Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana with a focus on the greater Chicago area.
If you require immediate assistance or have specific questions, our human support is readily available to help you.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. For professional advice, consult experts in the field.
