A severe hailstorm can be a frightening experience as we shelter in our home, and hope there will be no severe damage. Meanwhile, the frozen lumps of ice tear through the trees and plants in our garden. After the storm has passed we go outside, and begin inspecting gutters for hail damage.

Safety First Before Inspecting Gutters

Damaged gutters are an irritation, and cost money to replace if necessary. However, we recommend that you first check your roof for damage. That’s because leaks can stain walls and ceilings, and encourage mould and mildew growth.

Look carefully for signs of visible roof damage, or for the sound of water dripping somewhere. Your insurance will require you to take proactive action to avoid consequential damage. Find a Calgary roofer you can trust for an honest assessment.

Damage to Gutters After Hail Storms

Gutters are usually made from soft, semi-pliable material such as PVC or pre-formed aluminum sheet. They are therefore more susceptible to hail damage than most other building materials. However, our six-inch k-style extruded gutters are somewhat stronger, because of their more generous wall thickness.

Hail damage to gutters is impact-related, and therefore usually limited to dents and holes. Remember, when inspecting gutters for hail damage, that impact seldom scratches or creases the material. If you find scratches on your gutters after a hail storm, they are more likely due to wind-blown debris.

We can learn quite a bit about a storm from the damage it left behind. Holes and dents on the upper surface of gutters and leaf guards are from hail falling vertically down. Whereas horizontal damage generally occurs during strong wind, and reflects the direction from which it was blowing.

If Your Gutter Hail Damage Is Severe

You may find more storm damage to your gutters than dents and scratches. There may be holes in them or distortions. In extreme cases, they may have broken loose from their fixing brackets. Contact your insurance provider, and lodge a provisional claim within twenty-four hours.

Then contact a Calgary gutter company with a great reputation that has stood the test of time. They should be able to help you on the turn if you have a dangerous situation. Although you may have to allow more time if the hail storm was severe, and many other houses in your area also suffered severe damage too.

More Information

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Things You May Not Know About Aluminum Metal

Image: Aftermath of a Hail Storm (Meghan N By CC 2.0)