Hail is so common in Oklahoma we have an entire season dedicated to these large storms! For those who have lived in Moore and Oklahoma City for a few years, it’s easy to become desensitized to large-scale storms and the damage they cause. Often homeowners will go years without getting a hail damage inspection. This is dangerous and can lead to costly roof repairs!
Can hail damage cause roof leaks?
The answer to this question largely depends on the type of roof you have and how large the hail was. To help, we’ve listed how hail damage can cause roof leaks to the four main types of residential roofs here in Oklahoma City.
Related: learn when to get a hail damage inspection
Asphalt Shingles
Hail as small as one inch in diameter is known to damage asphalt shingle roofs, gutters, and cars. Unlike missing shingles, hail damage to roof shingles cannot be seen from the ground. This often gives homeowners a false sense of security; many will assume their homes were not damaged.
How does hail damage affect the life of an asphalt roof? When hail hits a shingle, it knocks off the protective layer of granules. Underneath that protective layer is a waterproof mat that works to keep water out of your roof. However, when the impact is exposed to the sun, this mat cracks and allows water to enter your roof system. In most cases, asphalt roofs with hail damage will need to be replaced.
Related: how to spot hail damage
Metal
Metal roofs offer more protection against hail storms, but they are not immune to damage! Small hail can cause dents in the metal while larger hail can warp panels and cause roof leaks.
So how does hail damage affect the life of a metal roof? That often depends on the size of the hail and the amount of damage. If the hail has caused holes or if the metal roof panels are warped from the impact, the roof will likely need to be replaced.
Smaller dents or dings can also cause long-term problems for metal roofs depending on if the hail removed any coating or if there is a potential for rust to form in the divot. Since there are many variables, it’s always in a homeowner’s best interest to err on the side of caution and get a professional hail damage inspection after every storm.
Cedar Shake / Wood
Cedar shake roofs are still common in many Oklahoma City communities! If you have this type of roof, it’s super important to pay attention after a large hail storm and ensure your roof does not have damage. Here’s why:
Wood roofs become more fragile as they age due to the constant exposure to UV rays from the sun. When hit with hail, wood shake shingles can easily be split by the impact. This split or crack in the shingle opens the entire roof system up to leaks and water damage. This type of damage can cause roof leaks and costly repairs.
Clay / Ceramic Tile
In order for hail to cause major damage to clay or ceramic tile roofs, the hail must be at least 2 inches in size. However, clay tiles are brittle and can be easily chipped by smaller hail.
How can hail cause roof leaks on clay tile roofs? As we’ve seen with most roofing materials, the answer depends on the size and duration of the hail storm. Impacts from large hail can cause cracks that ripple through the entire tile. Think of a ceramic coffee mug – even a small crack can reduce its durability and lead to leaks.
As with any specialty roof, it’s critical for homeowners to work with a licensed and experienced roofing contractor that knows how to spot damage and can provide an inspection after every major storm.
Key Takeaways – Can Hail Damage Cause Roof Leaks?
Regardless of what type of roof you have, large hail storms can cause roof leaks and reduce the lifespan of your roof. Regular roof inspections are the easiest way to prevent costly repairs and keep your home safe!
Interested in learning more about Triple Diamond Construction? Give us a call at 405-895-9972, send us a message on Facebook and Instagram or read our Google reviews to see what other homeowners have to say about working with us!
