Can hail affect bitumen roof shingles?
___________________________________________________________________________________________ Compared to other roofing materials like glass, metal and PVC the damage caused to shingles by hail is very small. Nevertheless it is a fact that hail can affect bitumen roof shingles. The damage caused by hail can be classified into two groups: aesthetic damage and functional damage. Aesthetic damage results in slight granule loss and the life of the shingle is usually not affected. Functional damage is characterised by substantial granule loss or cracking or penetration of the shingle. Functional damage may result in short term leaks or a reduction of the life expectancy of the shingle. There are several factors that impact on how roofing shingles perform in hail: Size and density of hail stones: Larger heavy stones will cause more severe damage. Age of the shingles: Newer shingles are more resistant than older shingles, as the bitumen is less brittle and better able to absorb the impact energ
