In response to the growing need for reliable hail damage assessments, Haag, a Salas O’Brien Company, developed comprehensive guidelines for the forensic laboratory testing of roofing samples. These guidelines are designed to help engineers, insurers, and consultants accurately determine the presence, cause, and extent of hail-related damage to various roofing materials.

Testing focuses on identifying whether damage is confined to surface coatings or penetrates deeper into the roofing system. Laboratory methods also distinguish hail impact from other causes such as mechanical damage, manufacturing defects, or natural weathering. Simulated hail impact tests, using solid ice spheres, replicate real-world conditions to determine the minimum hailstone size that can cause observed damage. These findings can then be cross-referenced with weather data to estimate when damage likely occurred.

Proper sample collection is emphasized, including correct sizing, placement of areas of interest (AOIs), and best practices for avoiding roof warranty violations. A minimum sample size of 12″ x 12″ is recommended, with larger samples needed for impact or R-value testing. Sampling protocols advise collecting multiple samples per roof section to enhance the reliability of findings.

Tests include desaturation analysis, single-ply inspection with advanced lighting and microscopy, water column testing for leak assessment, and insulation R-value measurement before and after simulating hail dents. These procedures follow ASTM standards and ensure rigorous, evidence-based conclusions.

Download the full document for detailed insights into:

• Laboratory Testing Procedures
• Sample Selection and Handling
• Desaturation Analysis
• Single-Ply Roofing Inspection
• Simulated Hail Impact Testing
• Water Column Leak Testing
• Insulation R-Value Testing
• AOI Placement and Sample Sizing
• Field Best Practices
• Interpretation of Test Results
• Correlation with Historical Weather Data
• Support Conditions for Test Decks
• ASTM Testing Standards