Your roof is your first line of defense against natural elements in your surroundings. Certain factors such as installation, quality of materials, and maintenance can determine how well your roof can protect you and your home from Colorado’s weather.
Map showing the frequency of hail reports across Colorado in 2024, with the highest concentration in the northeastern region according to NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center.
Colorado is one of the most hail-prone areas in the United States. The hail season runs from April 15 to September 15, with storms peaking in mid-June, when hail can be very destructive. Both home and business owners must prepare for these damaging storms, as hail can be devestating and cause significant harm to vehicles, windows, and especially roofs.
How to Identify Roof Damage from Hail
Hailstones can vary in size, ranging from the size of a pea to a large grapefruit. While larger hailstones cause more visible damage to your roof, smaller hailstones can gradually weaken your roof over time. Different roofing materials also react differently to hail impact. Some roofing materials are more resistant than others.
Here are the most common signs of hail damage on different roofing materials
Asphalt Shingles:
- Hail can crack, bruise, or dent shingles, weakening their protection. It can also strip granules, exposing the underlayers to UV rays and moisture.
Concrete / Clay Roofing
- Hail damage on clay or concrete tiles often appears as crescent-shaped cracks along the edges, shattered pieces, or star-shaped fractures spreading from the point of impact.
Wood Shakes or Shingles
- Hail damage on wood shingles often appears random, with sharp splits that may have a brown or orange tint and crisp edges. Impact marks or dents along the splits indicate the force of the hail.
Metal Roofing
- Hail damage on metal roofing typically appears as cosmetic dents, but in severe storms, larger hailstones may cause punctures that lead to leaks or structural issues.
In extreme cases, hail can break through any roofing material, exposing the protective underlayers of your roof. If you’ve had a recent storm, inspect your roof for these signs or contact a certified roofing contractor to prevent minor issues from becoming major ones. Protect your roof by checking its condition after a hailstorm and get help as soon as you spot any problems.
Minimizing the Risk of Roof Damage from Hail
Hailstorms are unpredictable, but roof damage from hail doesn’t have to be. While you can’t stop the weather, you can make better preparations to protect your roof. Proactive roof protection not only helps extend your roof’s lifespan but also reduces the need for emergency roof repair after every storm.
Here are practical ways to protect your roof during hail season:
- Trim surrounding trees
Trim overhanging tree branches near your home that could break off and cause additional impact damage during a storm. - Reinforce weak areas
Address any soft spots or loose roofing materials to prevent them from worsening during hailstorms.
- Consider impact-resistant shingles
Upgrading to impact-resistant shingles is a wise investment. These shingles are specially designed to withstand and absorb hail impact and reduce the likelihood of any damage. - Add hail guards to gutters and downspouts
These devices help reduce hail impact and protect your drainage system, preventing overflow and water damage.
Schedule regular roof inspections
Have certified roofers assess the condition of your roof. Certified experts can easily identify and offer solutions to any vulnerable spots on your roof before they turn into a costly problem.
Protect Your Roof With Golden Spike Roofing
With over 75 years of experience, Golden Spike Roofing specializes in helping Colorado’s residential and commercial property owners stay worry-free during hail season. We offer expert assessments, high-quality roofing materials, and certified roof repair services.
Contact us today for a free inspection and ensure your roof is protected during Colorado’s hail season.
