Calgary Hail Damage Roof Repair: What Homeowners Need to Know

Calgary is unfortunately no stranger to hailstorms, and these powerful weather events can wreak havoc on your roof in a matter of minutes. Understanding the potential damage, how to identify it, and what steps to take for repair is crucial for every Calgary homeowner. This guide will walk you through what you need to know about hail damage roof repair in Calgary.

The Impact of Hail Damage on Calgary Roofs

Hailstones, even relatively small ones, can cause significant damage to various roofing materials. The severity of the damage depends on factors like the size and density of the hail, wind speed, and the age and condition of your roof. Common types of hail damage include:

• Dents and Cracks in Shingles: Asphalt shingles can develop dents, fractures, or even have chunks broken off.

• Granule Loss: Hail can dislodge the protective granules on asphalt shingles, exposing the underlying material to UV rays and further damage. This often appears as dark spots or a sandpaper-like texture.

• Bruising: Even without visible cracks, hail can bruise shingles, weakening their structural integrity and shortening their lifespan. This can be harder to spot but can lead to premature failure.

• Damage to Flashing: Hail can dent or puncture metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations, leading to potential leaks.

• Damage to Gutters and Downspouts: Hail can dent or puncture gutters and downspouts, affecting their ability to drain water properly.

Identifying Hail Damage on Your Calgary Roof

After a hailstorm in Calgary, it's essential to inspect your roof for damage. Here's what to look for:

• Visual Inspection (from the ground): Use binoculars to carefully examine your roof for any obvious signs of damage like missing or cracked shingles, dents in flashing, or damage to vents.

• Check Your Gutters and Downspouts: Look for an excessive amount of shingle granules in your gutters or dents and dings in the metal.

• Examine Flat Roof Areas: If you have any flat roof sections, look for punctures, blisters, or depressions.

Important Safety Reminder: Do not climb onto your roof to inspect for hail damage unless you are a trained professional with the necessary safety equipment. It's best to contact a qualified Calgary roofing contractor for a safe and thorough inspection.

The Importance of Prompt Hail Damage Roof Repair in Calgary

Ignoring hail damage, even if it appears minor, can lead to more significant problems down the road:

• Leaks and Water Damage: Damaged shingles or flashing can allow water to penetrate your roof, leading to interior damage, mold growth, and structural issues.

• Reduced Lifespan of Your Roof: Hail damage weakens your roofing materials, making them more susceptible to further damage from wind, rain, and UV rays, ultimately shortening the lifespan of your roof.

• Voided Warranty: Many roofing material warranties require homeowners to address damage promptly. Delaying repairs could potentially void your warranty.

• Increased Energy Costs: Damaged shingles can reduce your roof's insulation properties, leading to higher heating and cooling bills.

Steps to Take After a Calgary Hailstorm

If you suspect your roof has been damaged by hail in Calgary, here's a recommended course of action:

1. Safety First: Ensure it's safe to be outside and around your property.

2. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of any visible damage from the ground. This will be helpful when filing an insurance claim.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the hail damage to your insurance provider as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process.

4. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection: Your insurance company may recommend specific contractors, or you can choose your own reputable Calgary roofing company like Roof Right Exteriors. A professional inspection will provide a detailed assessment of the damage.

5. Obtain a Detailed Repair Estimate: Get a written estimate from your chosen roofing contractor outlining the scope of work and the cost of repairs or replacement.

6. Work with Your Insurance Adjuster: Your insurance adjuster will assess the damage and determine the coverage. Ensure the contractor's estimate aligns with the adjuster's assessment.

7. Schedule the Repairs or Replacement: Once the insurance claim is approved, work with your chosen contractor to schedule the necessary repairs or roof replacement.

8. Ensure Quality Workmanship: Choose a reputable and experienced Calgary roofing contractor to ensure the repairs are done correctly and to code.

   
   
   
   

Choosing the Right Calgary Roofing Contractor for Hail Damage Repair

When selecting a roofing contractor for hail damage repair in Calgary, consider the following:

• Local Experience: Choose a company with a proven track record of handling hail damage repairs in the Calgary area. They will be familiar with local building codes and common insurance procedures.

• Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the contractor is properly licensed and carries adequate insurance (liability and WCB).

• Reputation and Reviews: Check online reviews and ask for references from previous clients.

• Detailed Estimates: They should provide a clear and comprehensive estimate of the work involved.

• Warranty: Inquire about the warranty on their workmanship.

Prevention: Choosing Hail-Resistant Roofing Materials

If you need to replace your roof after hail damage, consider upgrading to more hail-resistant roofing materials like impact-resistant asphalt shingles (UL 2218 Class 4 rated) or metal roofing. While they may have a higher upfront cost, they can offer better protection against future hailstorms and potentially lead to insurance discounts.

Don't let hail damage compromise the integrity of your Calgary home. If your roof has been affected by a hailstorm, contact the experts at Roof Right Exteriors for a thorough inspection and professional repair services!

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