Hailstorms can be terrifying and destructive natural events that can wreak havoc on:

• Homes 🏠
• Vehicles 🚗
• Landscapes 🌳

You’ve come to the right place! To help you better understand the signs of hail damage to your roof, the dangers of different hail sizes, what steps to take when you spot roof damage, and how to protect your roof from future hail damage, we have put together this comprehensive guide.

COMMON SIGNS OF HAIL DAMAGE TO YOUR ROOF

Recognizing hail damage to your roof is crucial in preventing further deterioration. Here are the common signs to watch for:

• Dented or Cracked Shingles: Hail can create visible dents, cracks, or punctures in your roof’s shingles.
• Missing Granules: After a hailstorm, you may notice granules from the shingles collecting in your gutters or on the ground.
• Roof Leaks and Water Stains: Water stains on your ceilings or walls may indicate that hail has damaged your roof, allowing water to seep in.

SIGNS IT’S TIME TO REPLACE YOUR ROOF

Residential roofing refers to the type of roofing material and projects you would see in residential homes around your neighborhood. These roofs typically have a distinct slope to them and often use asphalt shingles, cedar shakes, or composite shingles.

That being said, residential flat roofs are not unheard of. You might see these in more modern architecture or for extra structures like garages. If you live in a big city like Chicago, though, you may see more residential properties sporting flat roofs than usual!

• The size of your roof
• The area you live in
• The roofing materials that you choose
• The state of your existing roof deck

COMMERCIAL ROOFING ????

You are most likely to find EPDM roofing systems or other types of flat roofs on commercial buildings. The term ‘flat roof’ is a bit of a misnomer, though. Flat roofs actually do have a slight slope to them! This allows them to properly drain water and avoid water damage.

Commercial roofing systems have many benefits, including:

4 TYPES OF FLAT ROOFING MATERIALS

While our post today focuses on EPDM roofing material, you’ll likely come across many different terms while researching flat roofing material. Here are some of the most common types of flat roofing that you will hear about.

1) EPDM ROOFING

We couldn’t start this list without shouting out an EPDM roof! An EPDM rubber roof (also known as ethylene propylene diene terpolymer) is a type of single-ply flat roofing material that is versatile and durable. It is a newer form of flat roofing material that was only developed in the past fifty years and addresses some of the problems faced with older flat roofing systems.

An EPDM roofing membrane can be purchased in a wide range of colors and can last for years!

2) BUILT-UP ROOF

While EPDM may be one of the newer materials, built-up roofing (BUR), is one of the oldest forms of flat roofing materials. BUR roofs are created by layering tar and gravel onto your roof in order to create a moisture barrier. Not only is it less effective at protecting your property from severe weather damage than some other methods, but it is also one of the more expensive forms of flat roofing and only lasts around 15 years.

That being said, you will find that it does a very good job of keeping water out and is very easy to maintain.

3) TPO ROOFING

TPO is another type of roofing membrane that has grown in popularity. However, it isn’t chosen as often as an EPDM roof simply because it is more expensive. That being said, it can be a good choice if you live in a cold region, as it resists shrinking when the temperatures drop.

4) SPRAY FOAM ROOFING

A spray-on roof isn’t the prettiest option, but it is pretty effective at keeping out water. If you’re just looking to get the job done and not have to worry about it, spray roofing may be right for you!

HOW MUCH DOES EPDM ROOFING COST?

The big question! How much can you expect to pay for an EPDM roof?

The EPDM roofing product itself typically costs between $3-$10 per square foot. This means that for the average commercial roof, you can expect to pay anywhere between $6,000-$18,000 for a full roof replacement.

HOW LONG DOES EPDM RUBBER ROOFING LAST?

If the idea of shelling out thousands of dollars to replace your entire roof has you shaking in your boots, don’t worry! For all of that money, you are getting decades of use! The durable EPDM membrane can last 30 years, with many reporting up to 50 years of use, with good maintenance!

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ROOF FROM FUTURE HAIL DAMAGE

Preventing future hail damage to your roof requires proactive measures. Here are steps to consider:

• Install Impact-Resistant Roofing Materials: Upgrade your roof to impact-resistant materials specifically designed to withstand hailstorms.
• Regular Roof Inspections and Maintenance: Schedule routine roof inspections to identify and address potential vulnerabilities. Be sure to also maintain your roofing, including replacing damaged shingles promptly.
• Reinforce Roof Support: Consult with a structural engineer to assess your roof’s support system and make necessary reinforcements.
• Hail-Resistant Roofing Systems: Consider installing roofing systems designed to withstand hail, such as metal or concrete tiles.
• Storm Alerts and Preparedness: Stay informed about weather forecasts and take preventive measures when a hailstorm is predicted. You should also consider investing in protective coverings or hail-resistant materials for skylights and vents.

SCHEDULE YOUR PROFESSIONAL ROOF INSPECTION

Hail damage to your roof can lead to significant structural and financial burdens if not addressed promptly and adequately. Recognizing the signs of hail damage, understanding the potential risks associated with different hail sizes, taking swift action when damage occurs, and proactively protecting your roof from future hail damage are essential steps to safeguard your home and investment.

When you are looking for a roofing company that you can rely on, Anchor Point Roofing is the clear choice! Contact us today for a free estimate for your roof replacement or repair.