Metal roofs have always been popular for commercial buildings, and because of their durability and lifespan, they’re also gaining popularity for residential buildings. However, harsh weather conditions can impact even the strongest roofing material.
Property owners are often concerned about how storms damage metal roofs. At RST Roofing and Renovations, LLC, we are your local roofers in Georgia. In this complete guide, we will cover all about metal roof storm damage and how to protect your investment.
If you are concerned about the existing condition of your roof, we provide free roof inspections in Atlanta and the surrounding areas in Georgia. To schedule your free roof inspection, call us today at (404) 548-8901.
How Metal Roofs Get Damaged By Storms
In Georgia, roofs mainly face both thunderstorms and hail storms.
👉 So, can hail damage a metal roof? The answer is yes, it does! Hail storms can cause damage in many ways, one of the most obvious being dents.
👉 Many property owners are also concerned about whether metal roofs attract lightning during thunderstorms or not. Don’t worry, it’s just a myth! Studies show that lightning doesn’t strike metal roofs more often than other roofs. In fact, most metal roofs have a Class A fire rating, meaning they are safer than asphalt shingles if struck.
👉 While not common in our state, some property owners also wonder whether snow storms cause damage to metal roofs. Metal roofs are built tough enough to handle snow storms and can resist wind speeds up to 140 mph.
So, after discussing the impact of different types of storms on metal roofs, we can say that hail storms can cause the most obvious damage to metal roofs.
What Damage Does Hail Cause to Metal Roofs?
When we talk about hail damage to metal roofs, there are several potential issues that property owners should be aware of. Here, we will discuss common types of hail damage to metal roofs!
#1 Surface Denting
The most visible form of hail damage on a metal roof is denting. While smaller hailstones generally cause cosmetic damage, larger hail can create significant dents that might affect more than your roof’s appearance.
The good news is that metal roofs are designed to maintain their protective qualities even with some denting, unlike traditional shingle roofs that can crack and fail after hail impact.
#2 Coating Damage
Hailstones can sometimes scrape or chip the protective coating on metal roof panels. This might not seem serious at first, but the damaged coating can lead to future problems like rust and corrosion if not taken care of immediately.
Our team at RST Roofing can assess coating damage and recommend appropriate repairs to prevent long-term issues.
#3 Loosened Fasteners
During severe hailstorms, the impact force can sometimes loosen the fasteners that hold metal roof panels in place.
This is particularly concerning because loose fasteners can result in gaps from where moisture and water can seep in, potentially causing leaks and interior damage to your property.
#4 Panel Misalignment
In cases of extreme hail combined with strong winds, metal roof panels might become slightly misaligned.
This can affect your roof’s water-shedding capability and needs to be addressed by professional roofers to prevent water infiltration.
#5 Punctures in Thinner Metals
While rare, extremely large hailstones can potentially puncture thinner gauge metal roofing materials.
This is why we always recommend appropriate metal thicknesses based on your area’s weather patterns.
#6 Structural Support Damage
In some cases, repeated hail storms can affect the structural support beneath the metal panels, especially if there’s inadequate underlying support or if the panels can flex too much.
Regular inspections and maintenance practices can help you identify weakening supports early, preventing expensive repairs.
#7 Granule Loss on Coated Metal Roofs
For metal roofs with granulated coating, severe hail storms can dislodge the protective granules. This further reduces the weather resistance of your roof and promotes premature aging.
It’s very important to choose high-quality materials and talk with your roofer about whether a coated metal roof is a good option for your property.
#8 Paint Scratches and Scuffs
Hail impact can scratch or scuff the paint finish on your metal roof. While this might seem purely cosmetic, damaged paint can expose the metal underneath to the elements.
This can result in oxidation and deterioration of your metal roof over time. So, it is recommended to repaint the surface if you spot any paint scratches and scuffs on your metal roof.
How To Prevent Storm Damage On Metal Roofs?
As your local Georgia roofing experts, we recommend several preventive measures:
#1 Regular Inspections
Schedule professional roof inspections at least once or twice a year, especially before and after the storm seasons. As we always say, professionals can identify potential vulnerabilities and fix them before they become major problems.
#2 Proper Installation
The key to reducing storm damage is proper installation. At RST Roofing and Renovations, LLC, all our metal roof installations follow strict guidelines, using appropriate fasteners and proper panel overlap to improve storm resistance.
#3 Quality Materials
We recommend using higher-gauge metal panels in storm-prone areas in Georgia. Thicker panels are more resistant to hail damage and generally provide better long-term protection for your property.
Also Read: Storm Damage Roof Repair Vs. Roof Replacement
Schedule Your Free Roof Inspection In Georgia Today!
At RST Roofing and Renovations, LLC, we’re committed to providing professional roofing services in Atlanta and surrounding areas in Georgia.
Our experienced team provides professional installation, maintenance, and repair services to make sure your metal roof performs optimally for years to come.
Whether commercial or residential, our team has years of experience working with different types of buildings and roofing materials.
If you are concerned about the condition of your metal roof, then schedule a free roof inspection with us. Our team will accurately and precisely inspect your roof for signs of damage.
Call us today at (404) 548-8901 for a professional assessment of your metal roof or to learn more about our services.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. While metal roofs are highly durable, their biggest challenge is potential denting from severe hail storms. However, this is generally cosmetic and rarely affects the roof’s structural integrity if the roof is properly installed.
A. Yes, most storm damage to metal roofs can be repaired by professional roofers. At RST Roofing and Renovations, LLC, we specialize in metal roof repairs, from fixing dents to replacing damaged panels.
A. Look for visible dents, loose panels, damaged coatings, or water stains on interior ceilings. However, we recommend professional inspection as some damage might not be visible from ground level.
A. Most homeowner’s insurance policies cover storm damage to metal roofs. However, coverage varies by policy, so it’s important to review your specific coverage details.
A. We recommend professional inspections twice yearly and after any severe storms. Regular roof inspections can help spot issues early and prevent expensive repairs.
