Assessing and Repairing Hail Damage to Wisconsin Roofs

Assessing Hail Damage to Your Wisconsin Roof

If your home or business has recently experienced hail or a powerful storm with high winds, you may be wondering what impact this could have on your roof in Wisconsin. Hail can cause extensive damage to shingles and roofing materials, so it's important to have a professional roofing contractor inspect your roof to check for issues.

Signs You Have Hail Damage

Some clear signs that your Appleton, Wisconsin roof has suffered hail damage include:

• Shingles that are cracked, fractured, punctured, or missing granules
• Significant dents or divots on metal roof flashings or vents
• Dark spots indicating bruising under the outer surface of shingles
• An uneven roof surface from deformation

Dangers of Neglecting Hail Damage

While a few minor chips or cracks here and there may not seem like an emergency, even moderate hail damage can cause bigger problems down the road if you don't take action. Issues like:

• Leaks leading to interior water damage
• Infestation if pests enter through compromised areas
• Further degradation from sun and weather exposure
• Voiding manufacturer warranties

Hiring a Wisconsin Roofer for Hail Damage Repairs

To properly inspect and repair storm damage or hail effects on your Wisconsin roof, partner with a trusted local roofing contractor. Here's what to look for:

Storm Damage Expertise

Find a roofer with depth of experience specifically dealing with hailstorm, high wind, and impact damage repairs. They should be able to recognize issues and solutions at a glance.

Local Code Knowledge

Your contractor should be familiar with Wisconsin building codes, permit requirements, and local material sourcing for any necessary roof replacements.

Advanced Certifications

Ask whether technicians carry certifications from leading manufacturers like GAF that qualify them to properly install products like impact-resistant shingles.

Long-Term Solutions for Hail Damage

Once your Wisconsin roof inspection is complete, be prepared to discuss both repair and replacement options. Your contractor may recommend:

Spot Repairs

Isolated shingles, flashings, and vents can often be replaced instead of doing a whole new roof. This surgical approach saves money.

Full Roof Replacement

For extensive hail damage or aging roofs already near the end of usefulness, complete tear-off and replacement may be the wisest investment.

Hail-Resistant Shingles

Upgrading to impact-resistant composite or metal shingles better withstands future storms. Although pricier, this can prevent repeated hail damage.

Don't let a damaging hailstorm go unchecked. Partnering with a trusted local roofing contractor ensures your Appleton, WI property stays protected from the elements.

FAQs

How can I tell if my roof has hail damage?

Signs of hail damage include cracked, punctured or missing shingles, dents in metal flashings, dark bruising under shingles, and uneven roof surfaces. If you suspect damage after a storm, contact a roofer for an inspection.

Is it safe to go up on my roof after a hailstorm?

No, do not attempt to walk on a roof that may be compromised from storm damage. The safety risk is too high. Have an insured professional roofing contractor do any inspections and repairs.

Should I make a claim if there's only minor damage?

Even small amounts of hail damage can lead to bigger problems later if left untreated. File a claim if your inspection shows any signs of damage so repairs can be made before leaks or decay occurs.

What are hail-resistant shingles?

Hail-resistant shingles are impact-rated to withstand damage from falling hail. Upgrading from standard to impact-resistant materials better protects your roof in the future.