Hail season in Colorado is upon us, from mid-April to mid-September, peaking in June. This period marks a significant increase in the chance of hail storms that can leave their mark on our homes. For homeowners across Colorado, the question stands – is your roof ready?

The Havoc of Hail

Hail can be incredibly damaging for a variety of reasons. Depending on its size, which in Colorado can range from pea-sized pellets to baseball-sized ice chunks, hail can break windows, damage vehicles, and, most notably, wreak havoc on our homes’ roofs. But why exactly is hail so troublesome for roofs, and are certain types more vulnerable than others?

Hail impacts can remove granules from asphalt shingles, exposing the underlayment to more damage in future weather events. While more resilient, metal roofs can suffer dents and cosmetic damage that compromise their aesthetic appeal.

Composite shingles, engineered to mimic the appearance of traditional materials like wood or slate, offer improved resistance to hail damage. However, severe hail can still cause cracks or splits in these shingles, leading to potential leaks. On the other hand, tile roofs, made from clay or concrete, boast exceptional longevity and hail resistance. Despite their durability, tiles can be broken by significant hail impacts.

Signs of hail damage can include:

Granule loss: Look for spaces on your shingles where granules are missing, exposing the black asphalt.
Cracks and dents: Visible dents or cracks can be a tell-tale sign for metal or slate roofs.
Bruises or soft spots: Sometimes not visually apparent, soft spots or bruises, found when lightly pressed, indicate damage.
Damaged metal flashing: Check the metal flashing around your chimney and vents; hail can often cause visible damage here.

Protecting Your Roof from Hail

The best defense against hail is preparation and timely response. Understanding that your roof might be at risk is the first step. The next involves taking proactive measures to protect one of your home’s most critical components.

Tips for protecting your roof from hail damage:

Professional maintenance: Our professionals can inspect your roof annually or bi-annually to spot potential vulnerabilities before they become significant issues.
Immediate repairs: If you notice signs of damage after a hailstorm, waiting can only worsen the problem. Timely repairs can prevent leaks and structural damage. If you’ve suffered significant damage, you may need to call for emergency roof repairs.
Consider impact-resistant roofing materials: Consider materials rated for impact resistance the next time you replace your roof.

The unpredictable nature of hailstorms means that damage can occur, no matter how well we prepare. However, by staying vigilant and responding rapidly to any damage, you can significantly minimize the impact on your home. Regular checks, especially after a hailstorm, combined with our professional roofers' advice, will go a long way in keeping your home safe and sound during Colorado’s hail season.

Is your roof in need of repair before the next hailstorm? Contact Columbine Roofing & Solar to schedule an inspection.