Is Damage Immediately Noticeable?
Not always. Hail impact may cause a gradual loss of granules that can result in the premature aging of shingles. Without visible damage, it is difficult to determine the extent of the damage. Outward signs of damage may not appear until months or even years later.
How Can I Tell If the Roof Was Damaged?
Generally, damage from hail can be seen as indentations and/or fractures in the shingle surface. Hailstones vary in size, shape, and hardness, creating a random pattern of dents or depressions. If these are not evident on the shingles, look for indentations on metal flashings, siding, chimney caps, or skylight flashings. Over time, clusters of granules may come off at the point of impact, exposing the asphalt underneath.
Possible Types of Damage
- Granule Loss:
- At points of impact, granules may be lost, often accompanied by surface depressions.
- Surface Cracks:
- Cracks in the surfacing may radiate outward from points of impact.
- Exposed Fiberglass Mat:
- The granule-asphalt surfacing may shatter and break away, exposing the fiberglass mat.
- Fractured Fiberglass Mat:
- This damage may not be immediately visible. Fractures in the mat can result in tears radiating from the points of impact, potentially leading to further cracks and tears over time.
- Loosened Self-Seal Strip:
- Storm damage may loosen the self-seal strip, either immediately visible or weakening the seal integrity, which could lead to future shingle blow-offs.
Warranty Coverage
- Shingle Blow-offs or Broken Sealant Bonds:
- Damage caused by winds greater than the wind warranty coverage of the shingle is excluded from the GAF Shingle Limited Warranty. Coverage for shingle blow-offs or broken sealant bonds lasts from 5 to 15 years, depending on the shingle type.
- Other Storm Damage:
- Damage such as granule loss or that caused by flying debris or hail is not covered. Granule loss and impact damage may be immediately visible or latent, leading to premature deterioration of the shingles.
Conclusion
Hail damage to shingles can be subtle and develop over time, making it crucial to conduct thorough inspections after storms. Recognizing the types of damage and understanding warranty coverage helps in managing and mitigating potential issues.
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.
