Understanding Storm and Hail Damage to Roofs in Connecticut

 

In Connecticut, with its beautiful landscapes and historic homes, the weather can be as much a part of its charm as it is a challenge. Throughout the year, the state faces severe storms and hail that can leave roofs battered and homeowners battling with repairs. Getting to know the types of damage these weather events can cause, and knowing how to deal with them, is key to keeping your home safe and sound all year round.

 

The Toll of Storms and Hail on Roofs

Connecticut's climate puts every roof to the test. Winters bring heavy snow, summers throw up intense storms, and every so often, a hurricane might spin through. Hail storms and powerful winds are particularly tough on roofs.

 

Hail Damage:

- Hail or Hailstones, ranging from pebble to golf ball size, can hammer on roofs, leaving dents on metal ones and cracking or splitting asphalt shingles. This not only looks bad but can also weaken your roof over time.

- These icy projectiles can knock off the protective granules from shingles, shortening their life and leaving your gutters filled with granules or even pieces of shingle.

- Sometimes, hail might not crack or dent, but it can bruise shingles, causing hidden damage that makes them vulnerable down the line.

 

Storm Damage:

- High winds from storms can pry up shingles or even rip parts of the roof away, exposing your home to water damage.

- Heavy rainfall can sneak into any weak spots in the roof, leading to leaks and even structural issues if water gets into the walls or attic.

- Falling branches or debris can puncture the roof, causing immediate and visible damage.

 

Spotting Roof Damage

After any storm, it's wise to check your roof for damage. Some signs are easy to spot, others need a bit of detective work:

- Visible dents, cracks, or missing shingles are clear indicators.

- Finding a lot of granules from your roof in the gutters is another tell-tale sign.

- Inside your home, look for leaks or water stains on ceilings or in the attic.

- Shingles that have come loose might have exposed or missing nails.

 

Preventing and Fixing Damage

While we can't control the weather, we can certainly prepare for it:

- Regular roof check-ups, especially after bad weather, can catch small problems before they escalate.

- Choosing durable, impact-resistant materials for your roof can fend off damage from hail and wind. When shopping for shingles, the higher the impact rating, the better.

- Keeping your roof and gutters clean, and trimming any overhanging tree branches can also help minimize damage.

 

What to Do if Disaster Strikes

If you think a storm or hail has damaged your roof:

- Document the damage with photos. This can be helpful when you talk to your insurance company.

- Get in touch with your insurance provider to start the claims process.

- It's important to bring in a reputable professional roofer to assess and fix the damage. At Brown Roofing, our team specializes in all types of roofing even repairing storm and hail damage and we can guide you through the insurance claims process from start to finish.

 

To Wrap Up

Connecticut's ever-changing weather makes it all the more important for homeowners to stay on top of roof maintenance and damage prevention. By understanding what to look out for, keeping up with regular checks and maintenance, and knowing the steps to take if damage occurs, you'll keep your home safe and secure through whatever weather comes your way.