Severe weather is one of the biggest causes of damage to roofs. As a leading provider of residential roof maintenance services in Texas, we regularly identify water leaks, cracked shingles, damaged flashing and other issues after a storm. And while various weather conditions can weaken a roof, the damage from a hailstorm will often be substantial.
Can You Protect a Roof From Hail Damage?
You might think that there is nothing to be done about protecting your roof from hail damage. After all, you can’t stop the hail from falling. However, there are steps you can take to limit the damage your roof takes on, even if you can do nothing about the hail itself. We’ve assembled a quick guide to help you do just that.
Choose the Right Material
Here in the DFW area, it’s important to keep our volatile weather in mind when choosing a roofing material. Investing in a hail-resistant roof is very important. Because of this, we often don’t recommend that local homeowners tile their roof in shakes, ceramic, or slate, as these materials can crack and shatter during hailstorms. Stainless steel or asphalt shingles are usually the best option, as these materials are highly durable and usually do not crack or break during hailstorms.
Learn More About Different Materials
- Asphalt Shingles – These are the most common roofing shingles in the United States for a reason. Even with hailstorms, they will often last 20 years or more.
- Modified Asphalt Shingles – These shingles are enhanced with a rubber compound or a plasticizer, allowing them to hold up well in hailstorms.
- Metal – Metal can easily dent during hailstorms, but because they are lightweight and look great, many people are choosing this material. A metal roof can last up to 40 years, though it may not hold its shape the entire time.
- Wood Shingles – Wood shingles are often made from pine or cedar as well as other species. They look beautiful, but unfortunately, they don’t always hold up well against hail. You will also need to take extra steps to ensure your shingles are fire retardant and pass a fire rating.
Schedule Regular Roof Maintenance Checks
Identifying cracks, dents or discoloration are good ways to tell if your roof has hail damage. However, more than likely these signs will not be visible without a close inspection. So as a protective measure, make sure to schedule annual roof maintenance checks from a reputable roofing company – and consider getting a roof inspection after severe weather.
Choose Impact-Resistant Skylights
A skylight is a roof component that’s very susceptible to damage from hail. Fortunately, using impact-resistant skylights will help protect the building interior from hail, while professional installation will help avoid potential leaks.
Replace Your Roof at the Right Time
Every roof will eventually reach the end of its lifespan. But replacing the roof before you suffer moisture buildup, significant leaks and invasive damage is crucial. Take advantage of a free inspection, and opt for a residential roof replacement when the materials show significant signs of wear and damage.
Home Roof Repair and Maintenance Services in Texas
Meis Roofing is available for commercial and residential roof maintenance, repairs and installations throughout Texas. For all our clients, our team provides thorough maintenance checks, fast repairs and when needed, superior roof replacement services. To learn more, call 866-211-1116 or request a free roofing inspection today.
