Hail damage typically occurs during thunderstorms when large chunks of ice fall from the sky. These pieces of ice can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters. They can also fall at speeds of up to 100 miles per hour.
When hail hits a hard surface, it can create small craters or indentations. Over time, these craters can weaken the structure of a home and make it more susceptible to wind damage or even collapse.
If you've been through a hail storm, you probably know just how destructive they can be. This post discusses the different types of hail damage in a home and the necessary fixes.
Hail Damage Categories
Hail damage can be classified into three different categories—cosmetic, functional, and structural.
Cosmetic hail damage
Cosmetic hail damage is the least destructive type of damage and includes things like dents, scratches, and craters. Such damage can usually be repaired easily and relatively cheaply. They often occur along your home's exterior, creating subtle imperfections.
Functional Hail Damage
Functional hail damage affects some functions but doesn't pose a serious danger to the structure of your home. This type of damage can include a few broken windows, damaged roof shingles, and dented siding.
Structural Hail Damage
Structural hail damage is the most serious type of hail damage and can seriously compromise the structural integrity of your home. This type of damage includes things like collapsed roofs, multiple broken windows, and severe water damage.
How to Repair Hail Damage
The type of damage will dictate the repair strategy needed to restore your home's appearance.
A professional can perform repairs for cosmetic hail damage using a few simple tools. They start by removing any loose paint using a wire brush. Then, they use a putty knife to fill in any dents or craters. Finally, the repair expert applies a coat of paint to seal the dents and restore the appearance of your home.
For functional hail damage, you'll need to schedule repairs as soon as possible to prevent things from getting worse. A repair expert can check the roof for missing or damaged shingles and replace them if necessary. Next, they'll check the windows for cracks or broken glass. Your repair expert then inspects the siding for dents or other signs of damage and repairs them as needed.
Oftentimes, structural hail damage requires extensive repairs and can be very costly. And because of the magnitude of the damage involved, a hail damage specialist has to first outline an in-depth work structure before they can begin working on repairs. The process can be pretty complicated, so always engage an experienced repair technician to get the job done right.
To learn more, contact a company that offers hail storm home damage repair.