Our latest roofing case study helps explain why getting a roof inspection after a hailstorm is so important and how waiting to fix damage can increase the cost of repairs.
Location: Oklahoma City, OK
Roof Type: Asphalt Shingles
Project Type: Residential
Hailstorms can cause significant damage to a home’s roof, often leading to severe problems if not addressed promptly. At Triple Diamond Construction, we aim to educate homeowners in Oklahoma City on storm damage and why getting a roof inspection after a hailstorm can protect the value and safety of their home. This case study highlights a recent experience with a local homeowner, illustrating the importance of early detection and repair of hail damage.
Background
In March 2024, a homeowner contacted Triple Diamond Construction due to ceiling stains in their kitchen and dining room. Recognizing these signs as potential indicators of roof damage, we conducted a thorough inspection of their property. Our findings revealed significant hail and wind damage, necessitating immediate attention.
Detailed Findings
The homeowner was unaware of the existing hail damage and was not able to remember an exact storm date that would have caused the damage. They were aware of several storms that occurred the prior year but didn’t notice any missing shingles or other damage that would have prompted them to call for a roof inspection. Like many homeowners, they assumed their roof was fine after a storm because they could not see the hail impacts from the ground.
Using a forensic weather database, we traced the homeowner’s address to several large weather events. The most notable included:
- April 19, 2023: The area experienced a storm with 1.25-inch hail.
- September 19, 2023: Another storm struck, producing 0.75-inch hail and high winds.
The damage to the roof, garage, windows, and gutters was consistent with hail impacts measuring around 1 inch. These findings underscored the severity of the damage sustained by the property over multiple weather events.
Understanding Hail Damage
Hail impacts can compromise the integrity of roof shingles by knocking off the protective granule layer and exposing the felt layer underneath. Over time, these damaged areas worsen due to continued exposure to the elements, leading to roof leaks. The progression from initial damage to noticeable leaks varies based on factors such as the roof’s age, shingle type, hail size, storm duration, and others.
Unfortunately, this homeowner had asphalt shingles which are the least resistant to large hail and winds. Multiple rounds of severe storms over the span of a few months likely compounded the amount of roof damage and is what contributed to roof leaks forming quickly.
In addition, hail damage is not always visible from the ground. Without a professional inspection, many homeowners remain unaware of the damage until interior signs, such as ceiling stains, appear. By this point, the damage often extends beyond the roof, affecting the home’s interior and significantly increasing repair costs.
This is the exact scenario this homeowner faced. It wasn’t until they saw visual signs of a roof leak in their dining room that they called for a roof inspection – totally unaware the damage was caused by hail storms the year before.
The Consequences of Delayed Roof Inspections
In the case of our featured homeowner, the delay in identifying and addressing the hail damage led to water infiltration and interior damage. Had the inspection been conducted immediately following the hailstorms, the damage could have been mitigated, preventing extensive interior repairs.
However, knowing when and how “bad” a hailstorm is isn’t easy for homeowners. Those that travel may not be on-site to witness the storm or may be asleep if it happens at night. Scheduling seasonal roof inspections is one way to safeguard a home without keeping 24/7 tabs on the weather.
Key Takeaways On Getting A Roof Inspection After A Hailstorm
- Prompt Inspections: After a major hailstorm, it is crucial to get a professional roof inspection as soon as possible. Early detection of hail damage can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems.
- Preventive Measures: Regular inspections and maintenance can extend the life of your roof and save you money in the long run by addressing potential issues before they require extensive repairs.
- Awareness and Education: Homeowners should be aware that hail damage is not always visible from the ground and requires a trained eye to detect it. Understanding the impact of hail on roofing systems can help homeowners take timely action.
Conclusion
The case of our Oklahoma City homeowner underscores the importance of timely roof inspections following hailstorms. At Triple Diamond Construction, we are committed to helping homeowners protect their investments through education and professional roofing services. By acting promptly and seeking expert advice, homeowners can minimize repair costs and maintain the safety and integrity of their homes.
For more information or to schedule a roof inspection, please contact Triple Diamond Construction.
