New Jersey does not get Plains state hail every spring, but we get enough of it, and our building stock is old enough that it does not take much. A twenty year old membrane that has lost its plasticizers reacts to hail very differently than a new roof.
The Signs
On low slope systems we look for:
- Circular bruising or fractured surfacing on modified bitumen and BUR
- Punctures at insulation joints, where the membrane had no support behind it
- Displaced ballast and exposed membrane on ballasted EPDM
- Dented metal, gutters, curbs, vents, and rooftop equipment housings, which is often the clearest evidence of hail size
- Cracked seam sealant and split lap seams on aged membrane
Why Timing Matters
Most policies expect prompt reporting, and a fracture that has been open through a few freeze cycles looks like wear rather than a storm event. Getting it inspected and dated soon after the storm keeps the claim clean.
We inspect, scan for trapped moisture, and produce a scope your carrier and your budget office can both read. Call (862) 329-4766.