Metal roofing and hail damage go hand in hand. In areas prone to hail storms, understanding the effects of hail on metal roofing is essential for home and business owners alike.
Metal roofs are designed to be incredibly resilient against hail storms, even more so than other roof types. Still, severe hailstorms can cause serious damage to any structure’s roof, regardless of the material used. Metal roofs are particularly vulnerable to dents, breaks, and punctures.
While it may be the hail itself that causes some damage to a roof, what really creates havoc is water, which can make its way through weakened shingles and into your home. Even a tiny crack in your roof can cause serious damage to your home’s interior, including wood rot and mold contamination.
Therefore, it’s crucial to know the potential damage hail can cause on your metal roof. To ensure that any damage is caught in time and taken care of quickly, hire a roofing professional to inspect your roof after a hailstorm.Â
If you’re a resident of Ontario and looking for a metal roofing installer and service provider, look no further than London Eco Metal Manufacturing. The company has years of experience providing metal roofing installation and maintenance, with a team of certified professionals who are experts in the field. For more information about London Eco Metal Manufacturing, visit their website.
Now, let’s explore the factors that can lead to hail damage.
Factors That Can Affect Hail Damage
Several factors determine the amount of aesthetic and structural damage that hail can inflict on metal roofs. The severity of hail damage depends on various factors, including the size and weight of the hailstones, the angle at which they hit your roof, and the type of metal used in your roof.
Strength of Storms
Typically, hail less than two inches in diameter is formed during storms. Metal roofs are developed to withstand this size of impact and are rigorously tested for it.
Nevertheless, if you reside in an area with more severe hail conditions, look at roofing designs with ribs or striations. These metal roofs can deflect hail and protect your property against hail-induced damage.
Age of Roof
The age of your roof is a huge factor when it comes to hail damage. As metal roofs age, they become more prone to dents, breaks, punctures, and tears.
Level of Maintenance
The maintenance level of your roof also plays a part in the amount of damage caused due to hail. If your roof is regularly inspected and maintained, you’ll likely be able to detect signs of wear and tear earlier and repair them quickly.
Type of Metal
Different metals have varying levels of resistance to hail damage. For example, copper roofs are more resistant to hail than aluminum roofs. Conversely, aluminum roofs are more resistant than steel.
Slope Of Your Roof
The pitch of your roof also plays a role in hail damage. The steeper the slope, the less likely damage will occur, as the hailstones can bounce off easier and with greater force. On the other hand, if your roof is flat or has a low slope, it’s more prone to hail damage since the hailstones can make direct contact with the roof and penetrate or dent it.
Structural Support of Metal Roof
If your metal roof is supported by a solid structure that restricts the amount of flexibility, it’s more likely to remain dented-free.
On the other hand, if there’s no support underneath and only open air beneath the roofing material, hail may push against it quickly, resulting in indentations.
The Thickness Of The Metal Roof
Metal roofs come in various thicknesses, affecting their ability to withstand hail. Generally speaking, the thicker the metal roofing, the better it can resist dents and other damage caused by hailstorms.
Insurance Claims for Metal Roofs and Hail Damage
Insurance companies generally encourage homeowners to replace their roofs with metal varieties, offering reduced rates due to their durability and resilience against hails. If you have experienced any hail damage on your roof or want to be better prepared, we suggest reviewing your insurance plan and being aware of the type of coverage your insurance provider currently provides for hail damages.
How To File Insurance Claims for Metal Roofs and Hail Damage
If you notice damage to your roof, contact your insurance company immediately. Consult an experienced and reputed contractor to assess the destruction in the presence of yourself and the insurance provider. This contractor will be able to provide essential information for estimating repair costs and making sure all repairs or replacements match up. To ensure your roof is repaired correctly, contact a metal roof supplier who will work with your insurance company and provide quality materials. Finally, pick a trusted contractor to complete the job.
There you have it – the basics of metal roofs and hail damage. By taking these measures, you can be more prepared for future disasters. To guard against potential hail storm damage and ensure your roof is properly inspected and maintained. In addition, select a metal roof with appropriate thickness levels, choose a steep pitch to deflect hailstones, and obtain an acceptable insurance policy to cover any damages.
