Hailstorms cannot be just brushed off as minor inconveniences; they pose a significant risk to the integrity of your building and, in turn, a risk to your entire business. They can cause minor cracks and holes, as well as water leaks in your commercial roof. If you do not address these problems in a timely manner, then they will become costly. This is why local businesses trust Armor Commercial Roofing in Fort Wayne, Indiana to protect their building from hailstorm damage. If you are ready to protect your business, call us today at 517-617-6953 to take advantage of our services.
How Hailstorm Damage Affects Commercial Roofs
Immediate Impact and Hidden Damage: Upon immediate inspection, you may notice dents, broken skylights, or scattered debris. These are all minor issues. The real danger is what cannot be viewed at first glance such as tiny punctures or cracks that may not leak instantly but cause lasting damage.
Roof Types and Hail Vulnerability: Not all roofs are created equal when it comes to hail resistance. Different roofing systems have different strengths, and understanding your roofing system is the first step in determining potential damage after a storm.
The Role of Roof Age and Maintenance: A well-maintained newer roof can withstand hail better than an older, neglected one. UV degradation, worn seams, and aged coatings make older roofs brittle and more vulnerable to hail strikes.
Signs Your Commercial Roof Has Hailstorm Damage
- Dents or bruising on metal components, flashing, or rooftop equipment.
- Membrane punctures or small tears visible upon close inspection.
- Granule loss on modified bitumen or asphalt-based roofs.
- Pooling water in areas where hail impact has created depressions.
- Leaks inside the building, often weeks or months after the storm.
Even if your roof looks fine from a distance, it is important to schedule a professional inspection after any severe hailstorm.
Why Timely Repairs Matter
Hail damage restoration is not something that you should put off since it will only make matters worse. The longer you put off the repairs the greater the chance of:
- Interior water damage to ceilings, walls, and equipment.
- Mold growth that compromises air quality and health.
- A weakened roof structure
- Insurance claim denials
Prompt inspection and repair can protect your entire business operation.
Steps to Take After a Hailstorm
Document the Damage: Take photos of visible issues like dents, broken skylights, and pooling water. This helps with insurance claims.
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection: Self-inspection may result in missing some damage. A roofing expert knows exactly where to look.
File an Insurance Claim Promptly: Most policies cover hail damage, but insurers expect you to act quickly.
Invest in Repairs or Reinforcements: From patching membranes to applying protective coatings, repairs extend your roof’s life and reduce vulnerability to future storms.
Long-Term Hail Protection Strategies
Ongoing Roof Maintenance: Conducting regular roof maintenance and inspections, preferably twice a year, help identify small problems before they turn into large ones.
Protective Coatings: Application of elastomeric or polyurethane coatings can improve resistance to hail.
Upgrade: If you are getting a new roof, you may want to consider upgraded materials such as hail-rated metal panels, or a reinforced single-ply membrane.
Insurance Coverage: You want to make sure your insurance coverage is appropriate for hailstorms common to Indiana.
Expert Hailstorm Damage Repairs
Hailstorms in Fort Wayne, Indiana can be unpredictable, but the aftermath in the form of hailstorm damage does not necessarily have to be. You can be back on track without much disruption to your business with quick inspections and timely repairs and even preventative strategies that can help you minimize costs. All you have to do is call up Armor Commercial Roofing at 517-617-6953 and we can help ensure that your business stays protected even through a hailstorm in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
FAQ
How big does hail need to be to damage a commercial roof?
Even hail that is 1 inch in size can cause a lot of damage, particularly if the roof is older or already compromised.
Will I be able to see hail damage from the ground?
Not always. You may be able to see significant dents or broken parts; however, the vast majority of roof damage is subtle damage that must be looked at by a professional.
Will insurance pay for the repairs to my roof if it was damaged by hail?
Most commercial property insurance policies will include coverage for hail damage, but coverage for damage is dependent on reporting and documenting damage in a timely manner.
How soon after a storm should I plan an inspection?
Immediately. Even if you do not have leaks from the storm, hidden damage can worsen quickly. A timely inspection can also help to expedite claims processing.
What happens if I ignore hailstorm damage that appears to be minor?
Minor punctures and cracks will grow and can eventually allow water to enter the roofing membrane, which can create more extensive and costly structural and interior damage.