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Severe weather often strikes the Piedmont region without much warning. For business owners, a sudden storm can mean more than just a temporary closure. It can lead to significant property damage that halts operations and drains your budget. Protecting your commercial roof from hail damage in Hickory, NC, helps secure your investment. Hailstones can fall at high speeds, causing immediate punctures or hidden structural issues. These problems often worsen over time. Take proactive steps now to minimize repair risks. This helps keep your building safe for everyone.
Integrity Roofing, LLC has served the Hickory and Piedmont regions since 2017. We understand the specific weather patterns that affect North Carolina businesses. Our team brings experience in both commercial and residential roofing systems to every project. We operate with a simple mission: "Integrity in every roof we build." This means we provide honest assessments and high-quality workmanship.
When you work with us, you gain a partner who understands the insurance process. We help business owners handle the steps of filing a claim after a storm. Hundreds of satisfied customers back our local reputation. We offer free inspections to find hidden vulnerabilities before they become major leaks. Our goal is to keep your business running smoothly by providing durable roofing solutions.
Hail damage looks different depending on the type of roof your building has. On flat roofs like TPO or EPDM, hail often causes "bruising." This is a soft spot in the membrane where the internal reinforcement has fractured. You might not see a hole right away. However, the area will eventually crack and allow water to seep into the insulation.
Metal roofs often show visible dents after a hailstorm. While these might seem like cosmetic issues, they can weaken the protective coating. This leads to rust and corrosion over time. Even small hailstones can cause damage if they hit your roof repeatedly. These impacts loosen granules on asphalt systems and create weak points in seams.
Use materials designed for tough weather to defend your building. Look for products with a UL 2218 Class 4 rating. This rating means the material passed rigorous testing against simulated hail impacts. Class 4 materials are less likely to crack or puncture during a storm.
Modified bitumen and reinforced TPO are excellent choices for Hickory properties. These materials offer extra layers of protection that absorb hailstone energy. While the initial cost might be higher, these roofs often last longer. Additionally, they require fewer repairs. Some insurance providers may offer lower premiums for buildings that use these materials. Check with your insurance carrier to see if your business qualifies for savings.
Do not wait for a storm to check your roof's condition. We recommend scheduling professional inspections at least twice a year. Typically, these occur in the spring and fall. Regular checks allow you to find small problems like loose flashing. A well-maintained roof suffers less damage from hail than a poor one.
During an inspection, our team looks for signs of aging and wear. We document the current state of your roof with photos and reports. This documentation is valuable if you ever need to file an insurance claim. It proves the condition of your roof before the storm hits. This makes it harder for insurance companies to deny your claim.
A clear drainage system is essential for protecting your roof. Hail often strips leaves and branches from nearby trees. These then wash into your gutters and drains. If your drainage system is clogged, this debris causes water to back up. Standing water adds immense weight to your structure. It also increases the risk of secondary water damage in damaged areas.
Keep your gutters, downspouts, and scuppers clear of all debris. Check that your drainage system directs water away from the foundation. After a hailstorm, check your drains immediately. Simple maintenance steps prevent secondary water damage.
Roof coatings provide an extra layer of defense for your building. Fluid-applied coatings, such as elastomeric options, create a seamless barrier. These coatings are flexible and absorb some impact from hailstones. They also seal small cracks and gaps in your roof.
Beyond hail protection, coatings offer several other benefits. They reflect UV rays, which keeps your building cooler. This reduces energy costs during hot North Carolina summers. A high-quality coating can also extend the life of your roof. This allows you to delay a full replacement while maintaining protection.
Once the storm passes, your first priority is safety. Do not climb onto the roof yourself. Hail can make surfaces slippery and hide structural damage. Instead, perform a visual check from the ground. Look for signs of damage like dented metal vents or broken windows. If you see these signs, your roof likely sustained damage.
Call a professional roofing contractor as soon as possible. Most insurance policies have a specific window for filing a claim. A professional will provide the documentation you need for your adjuster. Avoid making permanent repairs until the insurance company sees the damage. However, take steps to prevent further leaks, such as using temporary tarps.
You might see dents in metal or cracked skylights. However, many types of hail damage are not visible from the ground. A professional inspection is the only way to confirm the damage.
Most commercial property insurance policies cover hail damage. In North Carolina, you generally have three years to file a lawsuit. However, most policies require prompt notice, often within 60 days. It is important to document the damage quickly. Work with a contractor who understands the insurance claim process.
Have your roof inspected at least twice a year and after every major storm. Regular inspections help you catch small issues before they turn into expensive repairs. They also provide a record of your roof's condition for insurance purposes.
Yes, certain types of roof coatings add impact resistance. Elastomeric coatings are flexible and help absorb the energy of smaller hailstones. While they won't stop damage from very large hail, they provide a valuable extra layer.
Protecting your business starts with knowing your roof's condition. If you are concerned about hail damage, Integrity Roofing, LLC is here to help. We provide thorough, honest inspections for commercial properties in Hickory. Our team will identify weak spots and recommend effective solutions.
Don't wait until a leak disrupts your operations. Contact us today to schedule your free commercial roof inspection. We are committed to providing high-quality service and integrity. Call (828) 448-0855 to speak with one of our roofing professionals.
January 21, 2026
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