What Types of Roof Damage Are Covered Under Roof Insurance?
You may have roof insurance to protect you from unexpected events that may occur to your home. However, you may wonder what types of roof damage are covered under this type of insurance policy. This article discusses leaks, ice dams, thermal shock, hail damage, and more. It’s important to understand your coverage, because you may not be able to claim for some damages.
Leaks
Water damage from leaky roofs can affect the interior and exterior of your home. It can be noticeable in the form of water spots on the walls, mildew or mold, or peeling paint. You may also notice soft areas or stains on your ceiling. If you suspect a leak, try removing some shingles from the affected area to check for signs of damage. If the stain is large, you can take a photo of it to prove its existence. You can also check your roof for the smell of mold.
The most common cause of roof leaks is a faulty pipe boot. A pipe boot prevents water from following the pipe down into the home and can be made of different materials. In addition, a leaky pipe boot can be caused by a failure in the material surrounding the pipe.
Ice dams
Ice dams can cause damage to your roof and gutters. It is important to contact a professional for help. You can also use tools for removing ice dams, such as a roof rake. Ice dam removal tools are sold in most hardware stores. Calcium chloride can be used safely to melt ice dams. This solution is effective when it comes to preventing water damage until the snow melts.
During the winter, your roof will be exposed to wind and rain. Snow will accumulate and freeze on the roof, causing ice dams. The dams will prevent water from running off your roof and can cause significant damage to your home.
Thermal shock
Thermal shock is a form of roof damage that causes a roof to leak. This type of damage is particularly prevalent with older membrane or metal roofs. Over time, thermal shock can make a metal panel shift slightly and allow water to leak in. Often, this damage will also affect flashing, which seals the seams between the roofing material and other parts of your home.
In order to prevent thermal shock, you should consider installing a reflective coating on your roof. This will help minimize the amount of heat absorbed by the material, and will also reduce its rate of expansion. In addition, make sure you choose the best installation procedure for the materials you use. This will help prevent buckling and cracks. You should also regularly inspect the top of your house to check for signs of thermal shock damage. If you find small cracks or openings caused by movement, patch them with a new shingle.
Hail damage
Hail damage on roofs can be hard to spot, but the first step is to have your roof inspected. A trained roof inspector can check shingles, metal valleys, and soft metal components on your roof for damage. He or she can also check actual shingles to determine the exact level of damage.
Hail damage can leave dents or holes in shingles, which can compromise the integrity of your roof. As a result, water leaks can develop and you’ll need to replace or repair your roof.
Clogged gutters
Blocked gutters are an excellent breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects. They also attract termites, who love damp environments and can cause severe damage to wooden roofing. A clogged gutter is also a perfect place for mold and mildew to grow. If not addressed promptly, these conditions can result in expensive repairs and additional damage to your home.
Blocked gutters not only damage the roof but also the ground underneath. They can also cause stains on windows and exterior walls. Water can also damage furniture and electrical systems. Furthermore, the downspouts can separate from the home’s structure, taking part of the roof along with them.
Mechanical damage
Mechanical roof damage occurs when the surface of the roof is damaged, whether intentionally or accidentally. This damage often occurs as a roof ages, but it also occurs in an unnecessary form due to events like hailstorms. This damage is not covered by most insurance policies. In some cases, it may be impossible to determine the extent of the problem.
Mechanical damage can be caused by several factors, including improper maintenance, storm damage, and improper roofing material installation. It can also be caused by an inadvertent action, such as a fastener sticking out of a roof. It is important to hire a professional to handle any repair work on your roof, as mistakes and negligence can result in major damage.