Welcome to the Capital Roofing and Exteriors blog. This article provides information regarding the identification of roof damage after a storm event. Many property owners attempt to assess their roof’s condition from the ground or driveway. However, several types of damage are not visible from a distance. A professional on-roof inspection is required to ensure the integrity of the roofing system.
Hail Bruising and Granule Loss
Hail damage is one of the most common issues that cannot be identified from ground level. When hail strikes an asphalt shingle, it creates a “bruise.” This is a soft, circular indentation where the protective granules have been displaced. These bruises are often small and blend in with the texture of the shingle when viewed from a distance.
Granule loss exposes the underlying asphalt to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Over time, this leads to the deterioration of the shingle and potential leaks. Because these marks are subtle, they generally require a close-up visual and physical inspection. An inspector will check for “spongy” areas that indicate the shingle’s internal structure has been compromised. You can learn more about our roof repair services to understand how we address these issues.
Broken Shingle Seals and Wind Damage
High winds can cause shingles to lift without blowing them off the roof entirely. Asphalt shingles are equipped with an adhesive seal strip that bonds them to the layer below. During a storm, wind can break this seal. Once the seal is broken, the shingle may appear to lay flat, making it look undamaged from the ground.
A shingle with a broken seal is no longer watertight and is susceptible to being torn off in future wind events. To identify this damage, a professional must physically test the shingles to see if they are properly adhered. Identifying these failures early can prevent water infiltration into the attic space. General information on our exterior solutions can be found on our services page.
Cracked Flashing and Sealant Failure
Flashing is the metal material installed around roof penetrations, such as chimneys, vents, and valleys. Storms involving heavy rain, wind, or hail can cause flashing to bend, crack, or pull away from the roof surface. These hairline cracks and gaps are frequently too small to be seen from the yard but are common entry points for water.
Sealants used around these areas can also dry out or be damaged by debris during a storm. If these components are not inspected and maintained, they will eventually lead to interior damage. Regular maintenance is a standard part of professional roofing care to ensure these small components are functioning correctly.
The Limitations of Ground-Level Observations
Looking at a roof from the ground is a limited method of assessment. While missing shingles or large holes are obvious, the subtle signs of storm damage are missed by the naked eye from thirty feet below. Professional inspectors use ladders and safety equipment to walk the entire roof surface. This allows for a thorough examination of every shingle, ridge cap, and flashing point.
A ground-level view does not reveal:
- The “feel” of the shingles (soft spots).
- Small punctures from flying debris.
- The condition of the sealant in hidden valleys.
- Granule accumulation in gutters.
For more answers to common questions about roof conditions, you may visit our FAQ page.
Professional Inspections and Insurance Claims
Capital Roofing and Exteriors provides comprehensive storm damage assessments. We offer free roof inspections to determine if your property has sustained damage that warrants a claim. Our process includes a documented inspection where we identify hail bruising, broken seals, and flashing issues.
If damage is found, we assist with the entire insurance claim process. We can meet with the insurance adjuster at your property to ensure all damage is properly accounted for during their assessment. This helps ensure that the repairs are code-compliant and that your home is fully protected.
If you have experienced a storm recently, it is recommended to have your roof professionally inspected.
Capital Roofing and Exteriors Phone: 443-977-1494 Email: Capitalroofingandexteriorsllc@gmail.com
We proudly serve homeowners and businesses across Southern Maryland, Virginia, and Pennsylvania. See our full list of service areas.
Related Resources
- 7 Mistakes You’re Making with Storm Damage Inspections (and How to Fix Them)
- The Simple Trick to Spot Roof Problems Before They Cost You Thousands
- Hail Damage vs Wind Damage Roof: How to Tell the Difference
- Schedule a Free Roof Inspection
