Hailstorms can cause serious damage to commercial roofs, often in ways that aren’t immediately visible. Whether it’s a minor impact or significant structural damage, hail poses risks that, if left unaddressed, could cost building owners substantial sums in repairs and lost revenue due to downtime.

Understanding how hail can affect your roof is crucial for making informed decisions about inspections, repairs, and preventative measures. In this post, we will explore the different types of hail damage, the long-term risks, and why regular roof inspections after a hailstorm are vital for maintaining the integrity of your commercial building.

Understanding Hail and Its Impact on Commercial Roofs

Hail forms when updrafts in a storm carry rain droplets into extremely cold areas of the atmosphere, where they freeze and eventually fall to the ground. While smaller hailstones might only cause superficial damage, larger hailstones can compromise the structure of your commercial roof in significant ways. It’s not just about the visible dents and cracks—hail can damage the underlying structure of the roof, weakening its ability to protect your building from future weather events.

Common Types of Hail Damage on Commercial Roofs:

1. Dents and Impact Marks: Hail often leaves visible dents or impact marks on roofing materials, especially on metal roofs. These dents can compromise the roof’s ability to effectively drain water, leading to ponding and eventual leaks.
2. Punctures and Cracks: In cases of larger hailstones, the impact may cause punctures or cracks in the roofing membrane, which opens the door to water intrusion.
3. Shingle Granule Loss: If your commercial roof uses asphalt shingles, hailstorms can knock off the protective granules, leaving the shingles more vulnerable to UV damage and reducing the overall lifespan of the roof.
4. Membrane Damage: For flat or low-slope commercial roofs with rubber, TPO, or PVC membranes, hail can create punctures or tears, which may not be visible at first but can lead to serious water damage over time.
5. Flashing Damage: Flashing around chimneys, vents, and other roof penetrations can also be damaged by hail, which can lead to water seeping into the building.

The Long-Term Risks of Ignoring Hail Damage

Ignoring hail damage can lead to a host of problems that extend far beyond the roof itself. Here are some of the most significant risks:

1. Water Leaks and Mold Growth: Small cracks or punctures in the roof can allow water to infiltrate, leading to leaks. Over time, this moisture can promote mold growth, which poses health risks to building occupants and can require costly remediation.
2. Structural Weakness: Hail damage can weaken the structural integrity of your roof. Over time, this may lead to sagging, collapse, or other severe issues that compromise the safety of your building.
3. Energy Inefficiency: Hail damage to your roof can impact its insulation properties, making your building less energy efficient. This can lead to higher heating and cooling costs, putting a strain on your budget.
4. Decreased Property Value: A damaged roof can significantly reduce the value of your commercial property, especially if potential buyers or tenants learn about the damage.
5. Voided Warranties: Some roof warranties require regular maintenance and inspections, particularly after weather events like hailstorms. Failing to address damage promptly can void your warranty, leaving you on the hook for costly repairs.

The Importance of Regular Roof Inspections

After a hailstorm, it’s essential to have a qualified roofing professional inspect your commercial roof, even if there doesn’t appear to be significant damage. Often, the most serious types of damage aren’t immediately visible to the untrained eye. A thorough inspection can identify small cracks, punctures, or membrane damage that could lead to more serious issues if left unaddressed.

In addition to post-storm inspections, it’s a good idea to schedule routine roof maintenance to catch potential problems early and ensure that your roof is in good shape before the next hailstorm hits. Many roofing companies offer maintenance programs that include regular inspections, which can extend the life of your roof and protect your investment.

Comparison of Hail Damage by Hailstone Size

Different sizes of hailstones cause different levels of damage. Here’s a comparison of typical roof damage based on hailstone diameter:

What to Do After a Hailstorm: Step-by-Step Guide for Building Owners

If your commercial building has been through a hailstorm, follow these steps to ensure your roof’s integrity and avoid long-term damage:

1. Inspect the Surrounding Area: Before climbing onto the roof, inspect the ground around your building for signs of hail, such as damaged trees, vehicles, or outdoor equipment.
2. Perform a Visual Roof Inspection: If it’s safe to do so, look for visible damage to your roof, such as dents, punctures, or granule loss. If your roof has a rubber or synthetic membrane, check for tears or punctures.
3. Hire a Professional Roofing Contractor: Have a licensed roofing contractor perform a thorough inspection. They can identify more subtle types of damage and recommend necessary repairs.
4. File an Insurance Claim: If your roof has been damaged by hail, contact your insurance company to file a claim. Make sure to document the damage with photos and inspection reports from your roofing contractor.
5. Schedule Repairs: Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to schedule immediate repairs or a complete roof replacement. Be sure to get quotes from several contractors and choose one with experience in hail damage repair.
6. Plan for Future Storms: After your roof is repaired, consider investing in preventive measures to minimize future hail damage. This could include installing more durable roofing materials or reinforcing vulnerable areas of your roof.

Choosing the Right Roofing Materials for Hail-Prone Areas

If your commercial building is in a region prone to hailstorms, it’s essential to choose roofing materials that can withstand hail damage. Here are a few options to consider:

• Metal Roofing: Metal is one of the most hail-resistant roofing materials available. While hail may cause dents, it is less likely to puncture metal roofing than other materials.
• Impact-Resistant Shingles: Some manufacturers offer asphalt shingles that are designed to withstand hail impacts. These shingles have a reinforced layer that helps prevent granule loss and cracks.
• Single-Ply Membranes (TPO, EPDM, PVC): While single-ply membranes can be punctured by large hail, newer versions offer increased durability. For added protection, you can opt for a thicker membrane or reinforced seams.
• Clay or Concrete Tiles: These materials are highly resistant to hail, but they can crack under the impact of very large hailstones. However, they offer excellent protection in regions with moderate hailstorms.

Conclusion

Hail damage to commercial roofs is a serious concern that should not be ignored. From minor dents to major structural damage, hail can compromise your roof’s ability to protect your building and its contents. By understanding the different types of hail damage, recognizing the risks of ignoring it, and investing in regular roof inspections, you can prolong the life of your roof and avoid costly repairs in the future. If your commercial building has recently experienced a hailstorm, be sure to contact a roofing professional to assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

Sources:

• National Roofing Contractors Association. “Hail Damage to Roof Systems.” NRCA.
• Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety. “Hail: Understanding the Threat.” IBHS.
• Federal Emergency Management Agency. “Understanding Hail Damage to Roofing Systems.” FEMA.

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Justin Hansen

Justin Hansen is a seasoned professional in the roofing and siding industry, boasting over 15 years of hands-on experience. Starting his career in residential roofing, Justin quickly established a reputation for meticulous attention to detail and superior craftsmanship. His commitment to quality and excellence propelled him into more complex commercial projects, where he consistently delivered outstanding results.