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How to Tell if Your Roof Has Suffered Hail Damage

When hail storms blow through the neighborhood, it can be a nightmare, depending on the severity. If you’re a homeowner, you’re likely worried about the kind of hail damage you’ll see to your roof when the storm settles. Things like missing granules, dents, dings, and missing shingles often point to problems and the likelihood you’ll need a roof repair. However, if you use these signs to identify where there is damage from hail to your residential roofing right away, you will reduce future issues and costs. Read on to learn more about what to look for.

Granule Loss

Granule loss on asphalt shingles is a clear indication of storm damage. The most common places to find the granules are in downspouts, gutters, or on the ground. If a decent amount of granules are found, there’s a good chance your residential roofing has been compromised.

Dings and Dents

You might not be able to see them from the ground, but if there has been storm or hail damage, your shingles likely have dents and dings in them. It might be a safer idea to have a professional come and handle this part of the inspection. The shingles might be spongy or soft, and if they are, that’s probably damage from hail.

Cracked or Missing Shingles

When hail hits your roof, the impact may crack shingles. If the hail hits hard enough, it could knock your shingle off the roof entirely. A missing shingle is something you definitely don’t want to ignore. The underlayment is then exposed to the outside elements, and you could be looking at water damage sooner if the problem isn’t handled right away. Make sure you look for gaps or other broken pieces of roofing material and if shingles are missing.

Water Leaks and Stains

Another primary indication that you have hail or storm damage is water infiltration in the attic. Stains on the walls or ceilings in the upper areas of your home are usually a sign that your roofing system has been compromised. You don’t want to leave even a little leak for any amount of time because those small leaks get bigger and more damaging rather quickly.

Seeking Out the Professionals

If you suspect your residential roofing has suffered hail damage, you may have to file an insurance claim. In those instances, you want to get assistance from the experts. With over 40 years of industry experience, you can rest assured that the contractors from Shelby Roofing and Exteriors will help you every step of the way.

Things to Look for When You Suspect You Have Storm Damage on Your Roof

As sturdy as your roof may be, it’s still exposed to the elements. This is especially troublesome when it comes to severe weather. From strong winds blowing tree branches onto your roof to damage caused by golf ball-sized hail stones, your roof can sustain severe storm damage that can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars to repair. Storm damage on your roof isn’t always easy to spot, but there are signs that you can look for. Here are some of the most common.

Damaged or Missing Shingles

Missing or damaged shingles are a clear sign that you have storm damage on your roof. If you’re not sure if your shingles are in good shape, try looking up at your roof with a pair of binoculars after a storm. If you see spots where shingles are missing or you see shingles that are cracked, dented, or peeling, consider filing an insurance claim and having your roof repaired.

Asphalt Granules in Your Gutters

While you should inspect your shingles after a storm, you should also look at your gutters and rain spouts. If you see tiny black granules in your gutters, your shingles may have been damaged. These granules are part of the asphalt on your shingles, and they can be knocked loose by strong winds or hail damage.

Gutter and Flashing Damage

The flashing and gutters on your roof can also be damaged by severe weather, so check on them after a storm. If they’ve been loosened by debris or strong winds or they’ve been dented by hail damage, they should be repaired.

Debris on Your Roof

If you see tree branches or leaves gathered on your roof after a storm, don’t assume that your roof is still in perfect shape. It very well could be, but you should probably have it inspected just in case. 

Leaks in Your Ceiling or Attic

A leaky roof is always a serious problem that should be addressed as soon as possible. You’ll probably notice a leaky ceiling in your living room or bedroom, but many leaks caused by storm damage are found in the attic. If you suspect storm damage to your roof, check your attic along with the roof itself. If you see water dripping from the ceiling or notice damp insulation, it’s time to file an insurance claim and have the leak fixed before it does too much damage.

If you suspect that your roof has suffered storm damage, contact Shelby Roof & Exteriors about making repairs.

Secrets to Preparing for an Insurance Claim After Storm Damage to Your Roof

Storms can be scary, and the aftermath can be even worse. If
your roof took a beating from hail, wind or heavy rain, you might be feeling
overwhelmed; however, there are steps you can take to make certain that your
claim is successful. Here are some key things to do before you call your
insurance company.

Safety First

Before you even think about contacting your insurance company, make sure
your home is safe. Damaged roofs can pose a danger of falling debris or leaks
that could damage your belongings. If there is major damage, it’s best to stay
out of the house until a professional can inspect it. You can also call your
local fire department or emergency services if there is a danger of immediate
collapse.

Document the Damage

Once it is safe to do so, take lots of pictures and videos of
the damage to your roof. Get close-up shots of any missing shingles, cracks or
holes. Also, take pictures from a safe distance to show the overall extent of
the damage. If possible, try to capture the date and time in the photos using
your camera settings. This will be helpful evidence for your insurance company.

Make Temporary Repairs (If Possible)

While you wait for a professional adjuster to assess the damage, you
might need to make some temporary repairs to prevent further damage from rain
or leaks. This could involve covering exposed areas with a tarp or plywood. Do
not try to do any of these activities yourself because you can put you and your
family in serious danger. It is always best to err on the side of caution and
hire a professional.

Gather Important Documents

When you contact your insurance company, they will likely ask
you for some documents.  Here are a few
things to have on hand:

• Your insurance policy information: Find your policy
documents or contact your insurance company to get your policy number and any
other relevant details.

• Proof of ownership: This could be your mortgage paperwork
or the deed to your house.

• Roof maintenance records: If you have any records of
recent roof repairs or inspections, those can be helpful.

By taking these steps before you call your insurance
company, you will be in a much better position to get your claim approved quickly
and efficiently. The more information you can provide, the easier it
will be for your insurance company to process your claim, and you will have a higher chance of a successful outcome.

If you need help with your storm damage claim, contact Shelby Roofing & Exteriors. Started in 1983 by Pat Shelby, Shelby Roofing & Exteriors focuses on residential and commercial servicing. We service Southern IL and the Missouri area, and we are well-known for our outstanding workmanship. Our experts will guide you through the process, and we will make all the necessary repairs to restore your home to its glory.

Getting the Best Roofing Financing Option

Do you have a roofing project ahead of you? Then, you must plan how you will settle the bill. Setting up a roof can be a costly affair. Whether it is a new building or you are doing a replacement, you need a solid financial plan. Many people go for financing options to allow them to finish the project quickly and pay later. However, you need to consider your financial gap and how to bridge it. Today, the market has various financing options from different companies. This makes it challenging for homeowners to know what financing to go for. Therefore, taking time to weigh all your options is vital so you can understand what best suits you. 

Is the Loan Important?

It is crucial to ask yourself whether you need monetary assistance. The first step is to assess the project costs. How much do you need to purchase the materials and pay the contractor? From there, compare the expenses with the amount of money you have. If you need urgent replacement or installation, you can opt for a loan that will fit the job. However, if the project still has some time, you can consider saving to reduce the financing you need. It is also prudent to know the approximate amount of money you need so that you won’t get more than necessary or too little.

Check All the Available Options

Once you know the money you need, you must begin looking for all the available options. Consult various institutions to understand their terms and conditions. You can also ask your roofing contractor to guide you on the best places to ask. Once you have sufficient information, you can choose the one that suits you. 

Check all the following aspects:

• Interest rates

• Overall loan costs

• Customer support

• Total yearly borrowing from the company

Repayment Terms

Once you settle on suitable alternatives, ensure you narrow down to the one with suitable repayment terms. Each loan amount has different payment timelines in various institutions. Therefore, you should work with the one who will give you the best terms without overcharging the interest rate. It is important to remember that a longer repayment term means an increase in the overall money you pay. 

Flexibility is also an important consideration. Ask questions like how you will benefit if you pay in a shorter time than you agree. You should also discuss late fee charges, repayment methods, and how to track your payment progress.

Do not commit blindly to a roofing financing option. Ask all the relevant questions and do a thorough research. This way, you will get the maximum benefit with friendly terms. Once you secure your money and complete the roofing project, you can pay as you enjoy a stable roof over your head. 

What Is the Most Common Type of Commercial Roof Used?

A lot of older commercial roofs are built with concrete, gravel, and/or asphalt. They are heavy and require a ton of supports built into them. When they start to fail, they are difficult to repair. Instead, consider some of the newer commercial roofing materials as preventive measures.

The TPO Roof

TPO stands for “thermoplastic polyolefin”. It is a white plastic membrane that covers the roof you already have, but seals it against the elements. It helps keep the roof of your building and your building itself at a very comfortable temperature. However, it is a thin, puncturable plastic, so it has to be maintained well.

ISO Board

ISO board is actually a sort of styrofoam insulation board. It is easily cut and even easier to install around any roofing fixtures or vents. The seams created from cutting and fitting these boards is then taped off with commercial roofing tape. The ISO board is harder to damage than TPO, but the two together create an excellent barrier to snow, ice, wind, UV rays, cold, and extreme heat.

Elevate TPO

Elevate TPO is TPO with a little something extra. It is a self-adhering roofing material that requires no extra adhesives or sealants to install. Business owners love the fact that Elevate TPO can be installed on a commercial roof in a day. Contractors love Elevate TPO because it is more difficult to tear or puncture once pressure is applied to activate the self-adhering properties.

It is also a little more durable than standard TPO. Roll it out on a roof, apply pressure with a special rolling tool while walking on the membrane, and it’s as good as stuck. The rolls have varying thicknesses and widths, making it even easier to purchase the right sizes needed to cover your commercial roof. 

Your Current Roof Has to Be in Reasonably Good Condition

To apply any of the above, your current roof has to be in reasonably good condition. These roofing treatments cannot save a roof from falling apart, but they can help prevent it.

When All Else Fails: How to Know It’s Time to Replace Your Roof

Every roof has a life expectancy, and it’s
wise to replace it when it ends. As your impact resistant shingles age, it
becomes essential to consider replacing them. Several factors dictate how
long your roof will serve you, including the quality and craftsmanship of
the roofer.  Saving on quality might cost less, but it’ll compromise its
lifespan. Your environment is also a determining factor. The harsher the
weather, the faster it’ll degrade. 

Your
home’s aesthetic depends on your roof’s condition, boosting or detracting from
its appeal. Numerous indicators point to an aging roof, some
readily apparent even without specialized equipment. 

Algae Growth 

Algae
growth is a crucial indicator of roofing damage that many homeowners ignore. As
surprising as it would look, algae can grow on your roof, affecting your impact-resistant
shingles. The bacteria can eat away your shingles and break them down, leaving
behind an ugly, black streak. Some manufacturers use limestone to make
low-quality shingles. Unfortunately, the limestone materials expose them to
algae growth and streaking. 

Clogged
Gutter and Excess Shed Granules 

If your
gutters are clogged and unable to divert rainwater from the roof, it may seep
beneath your shingles. Clear gutters and remove debris to prevent standing
water on the roof.  Minimal granules on your gutters are standard if you
have a new roof. This is because there is a chance they fell during
installation. 

However,
when these granules start falling from an old roof, it could indicate
deteriorating shingles. Granules protect your roofing system from the sun’s
harmful UV rays. Hence, when they start falling off, it can weaken your
shingles, leading to cracks. If your gutters become inefficient, you should
check for the presence of granules. 

Buckled
and Curled Shingles

Well-fitted
shingles should lie flat against your roofing system. It might signify
substantial wear if you notice damaged, curling, or buckled impact-resistant shingles.
You should inspect for chipped or broken tiles for tiles or slate roofs. Warped
shingles expose your roof to leaks, risking damage to nearby structures.

Installing
a new roof enables a thorough check of the sub-roof, making vital repairs
easier. This enhances your roof’s functionality and critical systems. For
dependable roofing services, reach out to Shelby Roofing & Exteriors now.

What You Should Do When a Large Tree Falls on Your Roof

It’s an unusual incident, but a tree falling on your roof isn’t entirely unique. Wind damage and storm damage are guilty of dropping tree limbs and even whole trees on top of roofs. When it’s a limb, the damage usually isn’t so bad. An entire tree is rather catastrophic, but it isn’t the end of the world.

Find a Contractor for Emergency Roofing Services

The first thing you need to do is relocate to a safe location. Then you need to find a contractor that offers emergency roofing services. The contractor will have to work quickly to remove the tree, piece by piece, from off of your roof. Then the real damage can be assessed before repairs begin. The contractor will put a tarp over the roof if the tree crushed the roof with enough force to leave large openings. 

Filing an Insurance Claim

This is an “act of God”, something that most insurance companies will cover when you file a claim. File your insurance claim as soon as the tree has been removed so that you can get good pictures of the damaged roof. The insurance company may still send a claims adjuster to your address to see the damage and get an adequate estimate for repairs. It’s the same process even if you only had hail damage.

Replacing the Roof

If the tree was of immense size and crushed the roof, there may be structural damage to the roof and possibly to the walls in your home. After a thorough investigation and determination of the damage to your home, the work begins. The roofer can replace and rebuild the roof, but any structural damage to walls will have to be done before the roof can be replaced. Expect a couple of weeks for really major repairs and roof replacement work to be completed.

When the Wind Blows: Signs of Wind Damage to Your Roof

You’ll not just walk into or see roof damage as you walk around your
home. Our hearts rejoice at the sunlight streaming into our homes through
parted clouds. However, rarely do we think of the effects the storm and wind
might have left on our roofs. The roof may have bang-ups, missing asphalt, or
loose shingles.

Most roof damages are caused by strong winds blowing roofing materials
off your home. This is more common in storm-prone regions, such as tornado and
hurricane zones. Below are several signs of wind damage:

1. Missing or Loose Shingles

Missing or loose shingles are widespread with asphalt shingles after a
windy storm. Avoid walking on your roof to check its condition as it could lead
to serious falls if it’s slippery. Hence, you can inspect your roof using
strong binoculars.

2. Curling Shingles

Hail damage is also more susceptible at the edge of asphalt shingles and
other pressure points. Hence, when inspecting your roof, you should check for
signs of curling shingles before they start peeling off. Shingles on your roof
are responsible for protecting your home from water damage. However, when the
shingles are curled, it is possible to encounter potential leaks. If not
addressed on time, your roof could deteriorate faster than expected.

3. Missing Granules

Asphalt shingles are covered with small pieces of crushed stones known
as granules. These granules offer an additional safeguard for your asphalt
shingles. When your roofs get old, the granules begin shedding, exposing your
roof unprotected from impact. Storm damage can cause these granules to be shed
off prematurely.

Therefore, after a windy storm, you should look for pooled granules in
the gutters. A few pieces here and there shouldn’t worry you. However, noticing
a significant collection of these granules might be a sign of wind damage.

Wind storms can cause serious damage to your roof. Thankfully, most of
these damages are repairable if it is caught early. For better and more
reliable roof inspection, contact Shelby Roofing & Exteriors today. We’ll
also handle Insurance Claims for you with ease.

What You Should Do When a Large Tree Falls on Your Roof

It’s an unusual incident, but a tree falling on your roof isn’t entirely unique. Wind damage and storm damage are guilty of dropping tree limbs and even whole trees on top of roofs. When it’s a limb, the damage usually isn’t so bad. An entire tree is rather catastrophic, but it isn’t the end of the world.

Find a Contractor for Emergency Roofing Services

The first thing you need to do is relocate to a safe location. Then you need to find a contractor that offers emergency roofing services. The contractor will have to work quickly to remove the tree, piece by piece, from off of your roof. Then the real damage can be assessed before repairs begin. The contractor will put a tarp over the roof if the tree crushed the roof with enough force to leave large openings. 

Filing an Insurance Claim

This is an “act of God”, something that most insurance companies will cover when you file a claim. File your insurance claim as soon as the tree has been removed so that you can get good pictures of the damaged roof. The insurance company may still send a claims adjuster to your address to see the damage and get an adequate estimate for repairs. It’s the same process even if you only had hail damage.

Replacing the Roof

If the tree was of immense size and crushed the roof, there may be structural damage to the roof and possibly to the walls in your home. After a thorough investigation and determination of the damage to your home, the work begins. The roofer can replace and rebuild the roof, but any structural damage to walls will have to be done before the roof can be replaced. Expect a couple of weeks for really major repairs and roof replacement work to be completed.

Key Areas on a Roof That Every Homeowner Should Check After a Storm

Storm damage, whether from rain or hail, is a trying time for homeowners. Hail damage is considered the leading cause of property loss in the United States, with the most impacted area being the roof. The cost of roofing replacements ranges between $9,191 and $80,000. This makes the roof the key area to check for damage after a storm. With roofs being designed to protect your house from any harsh weather, they suffer the most. You could be in for a big surprise if you fail to check them after a storm. Below are the critical areas on your roof you should inspect after a storm.

Shingles

Shingles are the most apparent areas to check after a storm. A hail storm involves hailstones between 1 and 1.75 inches in diameter punching through your roof with very high intensity. Hail damage on shingles takes the form of cracks, missing shingles, or torn shingles. If you observe shingles damaged by weather-related damage, you must document them to file an insurance claim.

Long Valleys

For those with high roofs with peaks, you most likely have long valleys. Rain and hail storms pummel these areas, causing them to loosen and lift. Check the hails for any hail damage and ensure they are still intact and no water leaks underneath them. Confirm whether the flashing is loose, which, if it is, you can include in your insurance claim to cover the costs of replacements or repairs.

Attic

From the outside, your roof may appear undamaged. However, there may be unseen leaks that can only be located from the inside. This may require you to go up in the attic after a storm and look for signs of storm damage. Water stains on walls and ceilings to mold on your exterior walls are the signs of invisible leaks.

Flat Areas

Storms, especially hail, love to hit flat areas, resulting in storm damage. As the hail bounces off, it leaves dents the size of an orange or nickel. If you have flat or close-to-flat surfaces on your roof, check them for hail damage. The damage can be repaired as part of a homeowner’s insurance claim.

If you need help spotting roof damage, hiring a professional roofer is wise. At Shelby Roofing & Exteriors, we offer roof repairs and replacements and work with your insurance claim in case of storm damage. Contact us for all your roofing needs in St Louis.