Hail Damage

Is your roof noticeably damaged by hail? Hailstones vary in size and hardness which can create random patterns of dents or depressions, fractured shingles and aging shingles. Generally, damage can be seen as indentations on metal flashings, siding, chimney caps, or even skylight flashings. 

According to one of our manufacturers, GAF, here are some common types of hail damage to look for. 

• Granule loss at points of impact, which may be accompanied by surface depression. Loss of mineral granules as an immediate or gradual consequence of storm damage can lead to the asphalt coating being directly exposed to the elements. This may lead to accelerated aging of the shingle. Therefore, granule loss is NOT just cosmetic damage, and “sugaring” — the process of adding loose granules to damaged shingles with asphalt cement — is not a permanent solution.
• Cracks in the granule-asphalt surfacing, which may radiate outward from points of impact. Cracks may be present especially if high winds blew the shingles back.
• Exposed fiberglass mat, where hail shattered the granule-asphalt surfacing causing it to break away from the fiberglass mat.
• Fractured fiberglass mat, which may or may not be immediately visible. A fractured mat may result in tears radiating out from the points of impact. Furthermore, hidden damage to the mat may later develop into cracks and tears in time as the shingles age.
• Loosening of the self-seal strip. This damage may or may not be immediately visible and may weaken the seal integrity, creating the possibility of future shingle blow-off.

See full article: http://blog.gaf.com/how-hail-affects-roofing-shingles/