Hail Damage and Metal Roof Replacement

It’s common to wonder how certain weather events might affect your metal roof anywhere around Michigan, and hailstorms are some of the most notable such events. How do metal roofs deal with hail storms and hail damage, and how much hail damage can a metal roof sustain before you should replace it?

At Mid Michigan Metal Sales, we’re proud to offer a wide range of metal roofing panels, shingles and other metal roofing supplies for clients around Michigan. Our products are made to stand up to any kind of weather, including hail, and come in the very highest quality possible. Here are some basics on how metal roofs do with hail, plus how much hail damage they can sustain before replacement is recommended. 

How Metal Roofs Do With Hail

There are actually a few misconceptions regarding hail and metal roofs on both sides of the coin. Some people assume that metal roofs are extremely vulnerable to hail damage, while others overestimate their resistance. 

The truth is that metal roofs are highly durable and can withstand a significant amount of hail – but they can sustain hail damage. This damage usually comes in two forms:

• Denting: The far less severe form, denting is usually confined to the visible areas of the roof and does not impact its structural integrity. It is purely cosmetic and can often be repaired through simple solutions like paintless dent removal.

• Penetration: The more severe form of hail damage, penetration occurs when hailstones actually break through the metal panels or shingles. This can compromise the waterproofing of your roof and lead to leaks and other issues.

Elements That Dictate Level of Hail Damage

There are a few key variables that tend to influence how significantly hail may impact your metal roof during a given hailstorm. These include:

• Size and velocity of hail: Larger and faster-moving hailstones will naturally cause more damage than smaller, slower ones. Depending on the strength of the storm, hailstones can range from pea-sized to golf ball-sized or even larger.

• Angle and direction of impact: The direction in which hail hits your metal roof can make a significant difference. Hail that comes down directly on top of your roof will do less damage than hail that strikes at an angle – especially if it strikes repeatedly in the same spot.

• Roof angle: Speaking of angles, the angle of your roof can also affect how much hail damage it sustains. Flat or low-pitched roofs tend to be more susceptible to hail damage, as they provide less resistance and are more likely to absorb impacts.

• Quality of the metal: Not all metal roofing is created equal. Lower-quality metals may sustain more damage than higher-quality ones, so it’s important to invest in high-grade materials like those offered by Mid Michigan Metal Sales.

• Paint system finish: The finish on your metal roof can also play a role in its susceptibility to hail damage. A stronger, more durable finish will better resist impacts and reduce the risk of penetration.

• Substrate material beneath panels: The material beneath your metal panels, such as plywood or insulation, can also impact how much damage hail may cause. A stronger substrate will provide more support and help prevent penetration.

When to Replace a Metal Roof Damaged by Hail

As mentioned, denting is usually just cosmetic and does not impact the structural integrity of your roof. However, if you notice significant dents or penetrations after a hailstorm, it’s important to have your roof inspected by a professional. They can assess the damage and determine if any repairs or replacements are needed.

In general, if the damage is limited to just a few panels and does not affect the overall performance of your roof, repairs may be possible. However, if the damage is extensive and poses a risk to the structural integrity of your roof, a full replacement may be recommended.

Insurance Considerations

If you have homeowners insurance, it’s important to check your policy for coverage of hail damage to your metal roof. Depending on the specifics of your policy, you may be able to file a claim for repairs or replacement costs. 

It’s also important to document any damage and keep records of repair or replacement expenses in case you need to provide proof for an insurance claim.

As you can see, while metal roofs are highly durable and can withstand a significant amount of hail damage, it’s important to properly maintain and inspect them after severe weather events. With the right materials and proper care, your metal roof should be able to stand up to any hailstorm that comes its way. 

At Mid Michigan Metal Sales, we’re here to help you choose the best metal roofing materials for your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our products or to schedule a consultation anywhere around the state.