Author Archives: United Roofing Services

Which metal roof is best?

When considering metal roofing, you’re going to have plenty of choices available. What type you choose as best for you will ultimately depend on what you need and want in a roof. Each type of metal roof has unique benefits.

Types of metal roofs

• Copper: Copper roofs last the longest of all metal roofs but also tend to cost more to install. Rusting is also rarely an issue.
• Aluminum: This metal will also last a long time and is highly resistant to corrosion. they are very good in coastal climates.
• Zinc: Lasts almost as long as copper and highly corrosion-resistant but can be easily damaged by hail or high winds.
• Steel: Steel is the most versatile and you have three options: galvanized, galvalume, and weathering. Galvanized steel is the most common of the three types of steel roofs. It’s flexible and relatively inexpensive.
• Tin: Not as frequently applied to roofing as it once was.

What are the disadvantages of a metal roof?

While longevity and toughness are primary reasons people choose metal over other roofing options, it can have its disadvantages.

• Cost: Metal roofs are about two to three times more expensive than asphalt shingles but costs can be offset by a variety of factors including longevity, energy efficiency, and even tax credits.
• Noisy: Unless backing insulation is installed, metal roofs can be noisy in certain weather conditions like hail.
• Expansion and contraction: Panels can come loose from expansion and contraction if the roof is not installed correctly and adjusted for this.
• Susceptible to water damage: Poor quality installation can also lead to problems with water damage including rust.

Will metal roof rust?

One concern most people have about metal roofs is that they will rust. While most metals are susceptible to rust, the metals designed for roofing are specially treated specifically to prevent rusting. Metals like copper and zinc do not rust. Instead, oxidation or carbon dioxide and water cause a patina to form over the metal. This patina can actually help protect the metal from corrosion. Aluminum doesn’t form red rust but rather white rust that actually blends with the metal making the rust difficult to distinguish from the actual metal.

How do you stop condensation on a metal roof?

Because rust can be a problem for metal roofs, you want to keep moisture away from the roof as much as possible. Condensation can be a particularly thorny problem that occurs on the underside of the roof. It’s normally formed at night if the temperature inside your building is warmer than it is outside.

Good ventilation is one of the keys to fighting condensation and your roof needs to be well ventilated when it is installed. Heaters also need to be vented outside. Good insulation will also help fight condensation, as will installing a vapor barrier when the roof is put on.

Can metal roof withstand hail?

If you live in an area where hail is common, a metal roof is a good option. While hail might dent your roof, it will never penetrate the roof like it might with an asphalt shingle roof, unless the shingle roof is specifically designed for impact resistance. You won’t have to worry about the metal roof breaking or splitting when hail strikes it. Metal roofing gets a Class 4 impact resistance rating, the highest rating for roofing materials.

Can metal roof be painted?

As long as your metal roof is prepared properly by priming it and if you choose the right paints and sealant, you can paint your metal roof. You can also coat the roof with an elastomeric roof coating to extend its life and improve its energy efficiency.

Can I walk on a metal roof?

You should have no problem walking safely on a metal roof without worrying about damaging it, especially when treading carefully. It’s best to walk near areas where decking is present and not walk on ribbing and laps. Wear soft-soled shoes and be careful of debris underfoot.

How do you repair a gutter?

Damaged and leaking gutters can be annoying, especially when water is ponding up around the foundation and washing away your landscaping. Most gutter repair jobs are  easy to identify and troubleshoot, but there is no shame relying a  professional contractor to do any gutter repair either. Should you have the desire to do your own gutter repair, we offer the following tips: 

• Holes in the Gutters: After you have cleaned all the debris and leaves out, rinsed out the gutter runs and allowed them to completely dry, you can fill any small holes with a coat if plastic roofing cement. Place a small amount of the roofing cement on your putty knife, then spread the compound over the hole. Keep going over the compound to create a consistently thin layer.  
• Larger holes take a little more work. Squeeze roofing cement around the hole then take a piece of flashing that is a little larger than the hole and place it over the hole, pressing it down so that it stays in place. Smooth the roofing cement along the outer edges of the patch, spreading and feathering it as you go with the putty knife. 
• Leaking Downspout: Remove all hardware and screws on the downspout and take the downspout apart at the sections. Brush leftover caulk off the joints with a wire brush. Clean the downspout inside with a gutter brush, rotating around to remove any debris stuck inside. With a small amount of caulk, reattach the one section of the downspout at the outer edge and slide the next section in, repeat using caulk to the outer edge. Reinstall the hardware and screws. 

Why is water dripping between gutter and fascia? 

This is one of those gutter repair signs that tells you attention is needed to the gutter system on your home.  When water is dripping between the fascia and gutter, it is most likely that there wasn’t any flashing installed there, or the flashing is bent, loose, or missing. This is an easy fix for any DIY homeowner or schedule your gutter and roof cleaning and have the contractor do the gutter repair for you. 

Some contractors will refer to this as the gutter apron, or you can do the gutter repair yourself with these steps: 

• Purchase the flashing or gutter apron from the local home improvement store. It typically comes in ten foot  sections. 
• You will need to remove the gutter hangers temporarily as you go. Another option is to notch the flashing at each hanger. 
• Lay out the flashing and then fasten with sheet metal screws. Remember the gutter should be hung below the drip edge – you can tuck rolled flashing under the drip edge there. 

How long do gutters last?

The National Association of Homebuilders advise that with proper care, maintenance, and gutter repairs kept up, you copper gutters have a life expectancy of 50 years or more, aluminum gutters 20 years, and vinyl gutters 25 years or more. 

The first step is to either call a professional contractor to inspect, clean and do any gutter repair needed.  Or you can do this yourself with a ladder, a good pair of work gloves, and time to spare. Once the gutters are cleaned, go back, or make the repairs as you work your way around cleaning them out. Run the water hose to the gutter and let it flow. If you still have standing water, you still have a problem. Get quality gutters today in Grain Valley and Kansas City, MO when you dial 816-896-4195.

New roof options

With so many styles and materials to choose from, what are the best options for new roofing?

• Asphalt shingles: Almost 75% of roofing in the U.S. is asphalt shingle. It’s inexpensive to install, and with good upkeep will last anywhere between 20 to 25 years. It is susceptible to wind and hail damage, but repairs are often inexpensive to make.
• Clay or concrete tiles: Tile roofing is growing in popularity, especially in warmer climates. Tile roofs can often last more than 50 years and are aesthetically pleasing. Additional support may be needed, however, to handle the extra weight.
• Metal roofing: Another choice growing in popularity. Though initially expensive to install, metal roofing will last up to 50 years or more and requires little maintenance.
• Synthetic shingles: A lightweight alternative to slate tiles or shingles, synthetic roofing is highly damage- and fire-resistant and durable. 
• Slate: Of all the roofing materials available, slate is the most durable and one of the most elegant of materials. It can last 70 years or more, but it’s extraordinarily heavy and costly. It requires professionals experienced with slate to install properly.

What is replaced when you get a new roof?

When you’re replacing your roof, a replacing typically involves tearing off the old roofing material—more often than not asphalt shingles—and putting in brand new shingles, along with new sheathing, underlayment, and flashing. Replacing a roof is different than installing new roofing on a new home. Putting up a new roof is starting from scratch beginning with the frame, and then adding the decking—the plywood panels that form the main foundation of the roof—before adding underlayment, sheathing, and shingles.

Do new roofs have a guarantee?

When you’re replacing your roof, your new roofing will typically receive a shingle warranty or manufacturer’s warranty of 20 to 50 years that just protects any faults in the roofing material itself. If you work with a highly rated roofing contractor like those at United Roofing Services will also offer warranties that protect you against any faults in the installation. With new homes, you usually have a builder’s warranty that lasts through the first year of ownership that covers any faults in construction that appear after you’ve bought the home.

Should I put a new roof on my house before I sell?

Normally, it’s not necessary to put a new roof on your house when you’re planning to sell, even if the roof needs some repair work done. You can make the repairs yourself or work the repairs into the price of the home, which normally will lower your sell price. On the other hand, if the repairs are extensive or the roof is well past its prime—around 20 years for most roofs—the extra money you spend on a new roof could be crucial to getting a fair price for your home.

Can you negotiate with roofing contractors?

Usually, when a roofing contractor gives you an estimate for new roofing, it will be fairly accurate and difficult to negotiate the price. Your best practice when you need a roofing contractor is to get bids from at least three contractors. You may be able to use the quotes to your advantage to negotiate a better deal, especially if you really like a particular contractor. Because roofers are pretty competitive you may be able to get your preferred contractor to lower prices or offer other incentives to use their services.

New construction roofing in rain

While putting up new roofing in the rain can be done, it’s usually best avoided, especially with new construction. Working in the rain can actually cause warranties to be voided, plus there are installation pitfalls as well. It’s especially tough to get shingles and other roofing materials to adhere properly in the rain. There’s also an obviously greater risk to trap moisture when it rains. Of course, in case of emergencies, it may be necessary to make a repair or replace a roof while raining. Even then, there are often effective quick fixes that can be performed while it’s still raining like adding patches with roof sealant and tarping the roof. Once the weather clears, regular repairs can then be made.

New technology for roofing

Many new technologies have come out for new roofing. Most are responses to demands for environmentally friendly roofing like recycled materials or solar shingles that have solar cells that work similarly to solar panels. 

When it comes to new roofing construction in Grain Valley and Kansas City, MO, United Roofing Services offers some of the best roof warranties on new homes in the area. Find out all we can do for you by calling 816-896-4195.

How long is a roof supposed to last?

Nothing lasts forever, not even a roof. No matter what kind of roof you have—even a slate roof which lasts around 50 years—eventually it will wear out. Most residential roofs with asphalt shingles, however, will last about 20 to 25 years. Roofs will only last this long if you provide regular maintenance, and, of course, no mishaps like hail damage occur. Most new roofs will have various roof warranties in place in case failures occur in the first few years because of faulty materials or poor installation.   

Do roofers guarantee their work?

If you hire a quality roofing contractor like United Roofing Services to install a new roof they will back their work up with roof warranties. Most roofers will offer workmanship warranties that cover labor and installation costs should something go wrong over a set time period. Most manufacturers also offer warranties on their products if the products turn out faulty. Terms will vary as to the length of time covered and just what costs are covered. Make sure to go over any warranties with the roofing contractor before choosing that roofer for your project.

What is the average warranty on a new roof?

The most common roof warranties are standard manufacturer’s warranties that will cover the cost of faulty materials. These warranties are usually 20 to 50 years, though a 30-year warranty is the most commonly offered. What does a 30 year roof warranty cover? This warranty just covers any defects in the roofing materials—typically shingles—not caused by lack of maintenance, poor installation, or other damage. Roofers that offer workmanship warranties will set different terms, usually anywhere between two to 10 years. The current average is about 10 years, though some roofers offer warranties that cover the lifetime of the roof. Full system warranties, which cover materials as well as accessories like flashing are usually good for 10 to 20 years.

What do roof warranties cover?

Depending on the type of warranty it is coverage will vary. Typical coverage may include:

• Replacement of defective materials like shingles if the defect is a result of a faulty manufacturing process and not damage of some other sort or basic wear.
• Defects caused by the installation process if it is a workmanship warranty. Some warranties only cover labor problems, while others cover labor and materials.
• Defects in accessories like flashing as well as materials are covered by full system warranties. Full system warranties often cover labor and materials to complete repairs.

What voids a roof warranty?

Although roof warranties are great to have to cover costs of repairs when problems or defects occur because of faulty materials or poor installation, the terms of the warranties can be voided if homeowners take certain actions like putting a new roof over an old roof. Reroofing can shorten the roof’s lifespan, and cause damage to the overall structure of the roof. Workmanship warranties may be voided in some cases after labor is done if another contractor is used to make repairs. Manufacturer’s warranties are often voided if the roof was poorly installed. Any roofer that takes shortcuts or otherwise makes missteps in the process, can cause you to lose out on warranty coverage. This is why it’s important to get a reputable roofer like United Roofing Services on your side. You’ll find we provide impeccable service when it comes to new roof installation. Warranties may also be voided if you place fixtures like skylights or solar panels on the roof or have a device as a satellite dish installed.

What is roof cupping?

When your roof does not have signs like roof cupping or granule loss across the board, roof repair is the best answer to that problem. When the issues affect your roof entirely from corner to corner, roof replacement is the answer to your roof shingle deterioration. There are several reasons as to why roof cupping occurs, this is when the shingle begins to curl towards its individual center, of which can be drooping or depressed. It can happen for reasons like:

• Improper installation
• Hail or impact damage
• Shaken loose or disturbed by wind or step
• Old age

Roof cupping or clawing can lead to your attic being compromised to insects and leaks as well. The previously mentioned granule loss can also be an attributing factor to your shingles curling because the sun is directly impacting the shingles without the sunlight is partly reflected by the granules. When it comes to improper installation, the reasons for that can be either a shingle being placed wrong or the adhesive not having enough heat to seal. Hail and general weather damage is not necessarily the bain of a roof. Shingles like the modern asphalt shingles, are designed to some degree to physically take the impact from hail and severe weather. While not a rare occurrence to see minor damage on your roof after a bad storm, asphalt shingles are designed to protect your home and tend to last several years with relatively minor care.

Do black shingles wear out faster?

When it comes to shingles, even asphalt shingles, darker shingles are not necessarily as long-lasting as their lighter-colored counterparts. The reason being is that darker colors absorb more heat and with many shingles being oil-based, they break down faster than other types of roofing like clay, metal, and wood. This goes back to the purpose of the granules, which partly deflect the sunlight and are built in to directly lengthen the shingle’s lifespan. That is why it is not a good sign when you find granules in your gutter or on the general premises. Even so, when it comes to average shingles, black shingles do not last as long due to naturally absorbing more sunlight and getting hotter on average. 

It should also be pointed out that shingled roofs are designed to be water-resistant, but not waterproof. When it comes to roof shingle deterioration, heavy rainwater can be somewhat bad for shingles. The reason being is that the rainwater washes off parts of the shingle, like granules and additives to lengthen the roof’s lifespan. This however is not necessarily something to be worried about, when your roof is installed by a competent roofer it is built to last through the elements for an extended period of time. Debris and impacts on your roof can cause standing water to build up, that is what will damage it due to it breaking down and allowed to seep under the shingles. This is why it is imperative that you spot roof damages and debris early on your roof. Getting a roof inspection every so often can solve that issue that starts roof shingle deterioration.

During the monthly inspection of your home, or the annual inspection by a professional roofing contractor, these are the indicators you need to watch for:

• Curled, cupped asphalt roof shingles
• Missing granules that have created bald spots
• Cracked or missing shingles
• Age of your asphalt shingle roof is 20 years or older
• An asphalt shingle roof is looking aged and worn
• Your neighbors are getting a new roof
• Black, dark streaks of algae and moss

There are a few home repairs that can be delayed for the foreseeable future. However, a leaking roof isn’t one of those repairs. Therefore, a monthly inspection is recommended. Finding those issues that we’ve listed or noting the age of your roof gives you the opportunity to get the repairs made before a problem starts or plan the budget for a replacement.

What type of roof shingles are best?

While they may not consider asphalt roof shingles the best by roofing experts, they remain the most popular choice. Why? They are inexpensive, offer easy installation, and are available in a multitude of colors that can match any home exterior.

In the southwest part of the country, like Florida, tile roofing is popular because of the Mediterranean style of homes and its reflection of the strong UV rays.  In the Northeast, slate roofing is the most popular choice where homes are of Gothic and Victorian style dating back to the 1800s. All around the country, especially in the countryside, metal roofing is popular. All roofing materials are as good as they are installed and maintained, but we have known metal roofing to last up to 50 years while a slate roof can last up to 100 years.

Are all roofing shingles the same?

If you’re in the market for a new roof, it’s hard to decide if you want asphalt roof shingles or another type of roofing material, or if you are going with asphalt roof shingles which type. You must interview some roofing contractors for quotes, and they are the best person to provide reliable information on roofing materials.

As you interview these roofing contractors, ask about their insurance, licensing and customer referrals. Check with those clients about workmanship and how the company honors their shingle repair on the roof they’ve installed.

There are three choices in asphalt roof shingles:  

• Three-Tab Shingles
• Architectural Shingles
• Premium Shingles

Similar materials are used to make all three asphalt roof shingles, but the differences are: 

• Three-Tab Asphalt Roof Shingles are affordable and can last 20 years or longer in the right climate. They don’t have as many aesthetic options and come off easily in high winds. 
• Architectural Shingles are durable and strong. With their multi-dimensional texture and appearance, who can resist them and their lifespan of 30 years or more? You get a longer lifespan, but it will cost you. 
• Premium Asphalt Roof Shingles offer that multi-dimensional appearance and durability, but compared to cedar or slate roofing material options, they are affordable.

What color shingles are best?

Asphalt roof shingles come in many colors, but there is more to those color choices than the esthetics they offer. There is functionality and purpose to consider. Dark color asphalt roof shingles have a solar absorptance of 97% and white shingles offer 76% absorptance. Depending on what part of the country you’re in should be considered when choosing the color of your next asphalt roof shingles.

The roof of your home is an investment for your largest investment. Choose the best roofing that you can afford when the time comes for replacement, and in the meantime, stay on top of possible repairs that can make your roof last longer. Call 816-896-4195 today for more information on shingle roofing in Grain Valley and Kansas City, MO.

Vinyl gutter installation is the least expensive and average between $3 and $5 per linear foot. There are different types of metal gutters, with aluminum being the least expensive between $6 and $12. Metal gutters made of steel can cost as much as $20 per linear foot, while copper gutters can cost around $40 and up per linear foot.

Are Seamless Gutters worth it?

Seamless gutters have become a popular choice for homeowners everywhere. The first thing to know about seamless gutter installations is that 80% are made from aluminum and to have painted aluminum gutters installed, you can expect to pay as much as $14 per linear foot. Pricing can vary based on the size of the house, how many levels a house has, and location. So, yes, they may be more expensive than old-style gutter system, but look at the benefits you get:

• Custom Fit – makes for better performance
• Less Maintenance – makes for more free time
• Less Backup and Clogs – less chance of problems
• Fewer Joints – makes for fewer leaks
• More Appealing – they look better

Can you install gutters yourself?

With a professional gutter installation job, you know the job will be properly done, the company will offer a guarantee and the manufacturer of the gutters will honor their warranty.  However, it can be less expensive to do your own gutter installation. With that said, we offer 5 warnings for commonly made mistakes: 

1. THE WRONG GUTTER TYPE: Gutter materials come in a variety of gauges, materials, sizes, and styles, with pros and cons to each. If you choose the wrong one, the whole project could be difficult. You need to choose the best, most durable gutter material you can afford and choose the one that is right for the size of shingles on your roof, which typically, the K style aluminum gutters that are  5 or 6 inches wide are the most common. You want to get the right gauge, too. A 26 gauge is recommended, but a 32 gauge is better.
2. INCORRECT PITCH: Gutters are not perfectly even across the house. They should have a slight pitch so that water can flow to the downspouts. This is typically a one to two-inch gradual decline for every 40 feet of length so you gutter stay clean. 
3. IMPROPER SPACING: There are a variety of hangers and mounting systems for gutter installation, choosing the wrong ones will allow the gutters to sag. If the gutters have any sag to them, when it rains, the water can’t flow and will weigh the gutters down, pulling them off of your house, causing more damage to the fascia. 
4. LOCATING IMPROPERLY: When water runs down the roof, it flows off the edge and into the gutter system. Sounds simple enough, but the problem is – that is all wrong. Your gutter installation should be under the edge by a few inches.  Water drips off the roof edge, but the roof will suck it back up. Your gutter installation should allow a drip edge under the first row of shingles to encourage water to run from roof edge and down to the gutter. This will keep water from running behind the gutter and down fascia board and siding, causing damage. 
5. TOO MANY SEAMS: If you choose to go with gutter pieces instead of seamless, plan your gutter installation to need as few welded areas as possible. Over time, the seams will become strained from the water, weather, and temperature changes that will break them at the seams. 

Do you install gutters under drip edge?

Your gutter installation should be under the drip edge and mounted to the fascia face so that the water runs down the roof slope and towards the downspout.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How much does it cost to replace a roof?
  • The final costs will depend on a number of things such as the size of your home, the type of material chosen, and more. That in mind, on average homeowners, will generally spend $7,000 or more on a complete roof replacement.
• What is included in a roof replacement?
  • A variety of services and solutions are included in a roof replacement. Of course, you’ll get a new roofing material installed, but you’ll also get new flashing, sealing, drip edging, ice damming prevention, and more. You can discuss all the services offered by your roofing contractor.
• What does re roof a house mean?
  • Re-roofing a home refers to the process of adding an additional layer of roofing to an existing structure. This means if your roof is still in relatively good condition years after the initial installation, you may not need to replace the complete structure. Instead, you may be able to get away with re-roofing sections.
• How often should a roof be replaced on a house?
  • Most composite and asphalt shingles have a life-span of about 20-25 years. Since these shingles are under constant sun exposure, use, and more, they need to be replaced every 12-18 years. This will ensure a roof that lasts and provides effective coverage. 
• What’s the difference between a re roof and a new roof?
  • With a new roof, the entire structure is stripped down to the decking and replaced with newer, fresh materials. With a re-roof, the original material is left alone and a new layer of roofing is applied overtop. That’s ultimately the biggest difference between the two.

What does commercial roofing mean?

Commercial roofing is the building, repairing, or replacing the roof on a commercial structure. It serves the same purpose as the roof on a home, protects the structure from the climate and elements.  

What do commercial roofers do?

Commercial roofers install and repair roofs that are made from a combination of the following:

• Asphalt
• Gravel
• Metal
• Rubber
• Shingles
• Tar
• Thermoplastic

Commercial roofing protects the contents and people like residential roofing. They train commercial roofers are trained in all types of roofing with a focus on the specifics of working with a commercial roof.

What are the different types of commercial roofs?

Each type of commercial roofing has advantages and disadvantages. Here is an overview summary of the types of commercial roofing that can guide a person in making the right decision.

• Flat Roofs – This style of commercial roofing is popular because it is cost-effective, easier, and faster to install. Materials used for the flat roof are Bitumen, Modified Bitumen, EPDM, PVC, Rubber Rolls, and TPO. The downside to this type of roof is that it is susceptible to holding water which can degrade the material used to cover it, which can lead to more maintenance.
• Low Sloped Roofs – This type of roof requires less maintenance because the water can runoff. It is less expensive and safer to install compared to pitch roofing but damages easily when a lot of heavy snow sits on it.
• Pitched Roofs – This commercial roofing type is excellent for snow and water runoff. Installing it and repair it has a high level of danger and the maintenance and repair cost can be costly.
• Metal Retrofit Roofs – If a commercial structure already has a metal roof, this is a cost-effective and simple method to repair or re-roof using a membrane system. It allows you to reuse the current roof structure and insulation and is an environmental step.
• PVC Membrane Roofs – Of all the commercial roofing materials, this is the most popular. It is time-tested and has a long life span.
• TPO Membrane Roofs – For a commercial roofing material where the sun is hot most of the year, this light-colored material reflects the sun’s UV rays, keeping the heat away. It comes in various colors of blue, gray, green, red, tan, and white and doesn’t puncture easily and resist shrinkage.
• EPDM Membrane Roofs – For commercial roofing on buildings located in cooler areas, this is a darker roofs material that is perfect. It is a highly durable rubber material that provides protection from the climate and isn’t easy to puncture or shrinkage.

What is the best material for a flat roof?

For a flat roof, metal is the best material for roofing, specifically aluminum because of its durability. For flat metal commercial roofing can have a lifespan to 30 – 35 years. It reflects the UV rays, which helps with utility expenses.

As a commercial building owner or manager, it is necessary to study each of the materials we’ve discussed here so that you can make an informed decision. Getting the most for your money is important to get the best ROI possible. Call 816-896-4195 today for commercial roof installation in Grain Valley and Kansas City, MO from United Roofing Services.

For hail damage roof repair in Grain Valley and Kansas City, MO get help from the professionals at United Roofing Services. We offer full-service repairs for rain, hail, and wind. Give us a call at 816-896-4195 to find out how we can help you.

Can 1 inch hail cause damage to a roof?

Any size of hail can damage your roof. Damage from small hailstones less than 1 inch in diameter may be less obvious than damage from hailstones 1 inch in diameter or larger. Larger hailstones will most often cause the type of damage that is readily visible to untrained eyes. No matter the size of the hail stone, you’re likely to see areas where granules are missing or dimples in shingles or cracks. Hail damage roof repair will be necessary in this case.

Can hail damage slate roof

Of all the various types of roofs available, slate roofs, if they are of good quality, tend to be the least vulnerable to hail damage. Normally resistant to hail, poor quality slate roofs are vulnerable to hail damage. Installation issues like side lap, where there is a single layer of slate, can also leave the material vulnerable to hail damage. Of course, the size of the hailstones will affect the roof as well. Few roofing materials, for instance, will hold up well to hail the size of a baseball or larger.

Can hail damage roof shingles

Basic 3-tab asphalt shingles are highly susceptible to hail damage, as are standard architectural shingles. Other shingles, like impact resistant shingles are designed specifically to withstand the harsh impacts of hail. These types of shingles are given a Class 4 impact rating, the highest rating given. These types of shingles are tested using steel balls dropped at varying heights to mimic the impact of hail. Again, no matter how strong your shingles are, large hailstones dropping at a rapid rate may still cause some damage to your shingles. 

If your shingles have been damaged by hail, you’ll need to get shingle roof repair done quickly to avoid further damage like leaks.

Can hail damage cedar shake roof

Cedar shake or wood shake roofs are designed to hold up to hail really well. Still, depending on the size of hailstones and rate of impact, even these strong roofs can get damaged by hail. Cracks or impact marks will usually be visible immediately after a storm. Waiting too long after a storm to get the roof inspected for hail damage may cause the insurance adjuster to consider the damage just a natural part of wear. Unless it’s very serious, hail damage on a wood shake roof may not affect its performance. Severe cracking, however, can leave the roofing felt vulnerable to weather and water damage.

What does roof damage from hail look like?

Hail damage roof problems are not always easy to spot, especially if the damage was caused by smaller hailstones. Because it’s not easy to spot, it’s recommended that you get a roof inspection as soon as possible after a storm. The one common aspect is that the damage is random. There is rarely any discernible pattern. Although not always easy to spot, here are some common hail damage roof indicators.

• Loss of granules on asphalt shingles that may expose roof felt.
• Dimples in the shingles or other impact marks. These marks are often black.
• Areas soft to the touch similar to a bruise on an apple.
• Cracks or splits. With wood shakes, splits may appear brown or orange in color.

Is hail damage to roof covered by insurance?

Among the most common homeowners claims is roof hail damage. Because the hail damage is considered a hazard or peril, most home insurance policies cover hail damage roof claims, under the name of dwelling protection coverage. The structures normally falling under this coverage include roofs, windows, garages, porches, decks, and appliances. Some policies will also cover structures like sheds not attached to the house.

Coverage may vary, especially if you live in an area that gets frequent hail. Cosmetic damage like nicks on your shingles may not be covered, though water damage or leaks caused by hail usually are covered.

How long do I have to file an insurance claim for hail damage?

The sooner you file your hail damage roof claim, the better. That said, most insurance policies require that hail damage roof insurance claims are filed within one year from the time you determine your roof has been damaged. Individual policies will vary, so you may want to clarify the amount of time you have to file with your insurance agent.

Do insurance rates go up after hail damage?

Usually, because hail damage isn’t something you can prevent, your insurance won’t increase when you file a hail damage roof claim. In areas where hail storms are more frequent, your premiums may go up because so many hail damage roof claims are filed in those regions.