April showers bring May…hailstorms. Spring can bring more than green grass and blooming flowers. Heavy thunderstorms during this season are known for their destruction to everything in their path. There are many factors that can affect the type and degree of hail damage. Here’s a quick guide to help you identify hail damage on your roof.

How can hail damage my property?

• Type of Building Material – Hail affects various building materials differently. It can crack vinyl siding and cause dings in aluminum siding, gutters, or asphalt shingles. If the hailstone is large enough it can even puncture a roof. Older roofs are more susceptible to hail damage.

• Size and Density – The size of a hailstone can vary greatly. Pea-size hail may cause little to no damage, but softball-sized hail can wreak havoc on your property. Plus, most hailstones have jagged, sharp edges which can intensify damage.

• Wind – During a strong thunderstorm, wind speed and direction can affect where and how the hail damages your property.

How do I know if I have roof damage?

• Wood Shingles – Look for splits in shingles that are brown or orange in color, dents along the splits, and a split that has sharp corners.

• Asphalt and Composition Shingles – Look for hail hits that are black in color, asphalt that appears shiny, exposed roof felt, and hits that are soft to the touch (like a bruised apple).

If you think your roof has been damaged by hail, call Above All Roofing. We offer free inspections and will work with your insurance company to discuss the next steps.