If you live in Minnesota, you’re probably familiar with the damage threat hailstorms pose. What is hail? Hail begins as water droplets in the clouds. As it freezes and moves around in the clouds, it collects more moisture, which then freezes on the existing ice ball. Hail can be pea-sized, or it can grow to the size of a grapefruit. Eventually it gets too heavy and falls to the ground from thousands of feet up. Hail is known to destroy crops, cars, and particularly roofing.
The roof takes the brunt of the impact during a hail storm, and if it is accompanied by a driving wind, this damage can escalate significantly. The only way to determine the extent of hail damage after a hail storm, no matter how brief, is to go up on the roof and take a look around. While many people rarely do this, homeowners should be aware that hail storms will bring damage. Even very small hail can cause problems. Don’t wait until you have a ceiling leak for evidence:
Dented or loose vents and metal flashing Split, broken, or missing shingles Severe roofing granule loss (check your downspout bases – the granules will accumulate there Don’t forget to check your siding for cracks or other damage. Also inspect your A/C unit.
While newer shingles are better made to withstand hail damage; and underlayment has been improved to help absorb the impact of hail, it will still take a trained eye to make sure your roof was not compromised.
In recent years, roof shingle manufacturers have been listing products that conform to Underwriters Laboratories test standard UL 2218, which classifies the resistance of a particular product to hail damage. While this is a relatively new testing method, it does have some important key factors to consider while purchasing new products.
If you have had hail damage on your roof and your insurance company agrees to a replacement, make sure you go with a roofing contractor that is up to date with what’s going on in the industry. Iron River Construction is here to help you get the best product, at the best price, with the least amount of hassle. Call us today- 952-442-1762
