Your Roof was Damaged by Hail… Now What?

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make after a hailstorm is waiting too long to have their roof inspected. While it might seem like everything is fine at first glance, hail can cause hidden damage that worsens over time. What starts as a small crack or dent in a shingle could lead to a significant leak or structural issue if left unchecked. By acting quickly, you can prevent minor damage from escalating into a much larger (and more expensive) problem.

After a hailstorm, it’s important to perform a basic visual inspection of your roof. Some of the most common signs of hail damage include:

• Dents on Shingles: Hail can leave small dents or divots in your shingles. Even if they seem minor, these can weaken the shingles and make your roof vulnerable to leaks.
• Cracked or Missing Shingles: Severe hail can crack or even knock shingles loose. Any exposed area of your roof is susceptible to water damage.
• Damaged Gutters: Don’t forget to check your gutters! Hail can dent or clog gutters, leading to poor drainage and water damage around your home’s foundation.

Granule Loss: Shingles are coated with tiny granules that protect them from the elements. If you notice granules collecting in your gutters or downspouts, it could be a sign of significant damage.

While it’s tempting to climb onto your roof to get a better look at the damage, it’s best to leave this to the professionals. Walking on a damaged roof is dangerous and could cause further harm to the structure. A professional roofing inspection ensures that all damage is identified safely and thoroughly, and you don’t have to risk injury.

Many homeowners rush to call their insurance company right after a hailstorm, but there’s a better first step: contact a roofing expert. Why? Because an experienced roofer can provide a more thorough and accurate assessment of the damage than you might get from an insurance adjuster alone. Roofing experts know exactly what to look for, from the obvious dents to the subtle signs of structural issues that could be easily overlooked.

A professional roofing inspection gives you the upper hand when dealing with your insurance company. The roofer will provide a detailed report outlining the full extent of the damage, which you can use to support your claim. With this report, you’ll be in a stronger position to negotiate with your insurer and ensure that no damage is missed or undervalued.

Another benefit of contacting a roofing expert first is that they’re experienced in working with insurance claims. This means they understand the insurance process and can help ensure you’re not left with a lowball settlement that doesn’t cover all the repairs. A professional roofer can even be present during the insurance inspection to advocate for your claim, ensuring that all damage is properly accounted for.

If you think your roof might have damage, contact a roofing company you trust to come to your home and perform an inspection. This inspection will determine whether or not you have the kind of damage to your roof typically covered by insurance.

If you do have damage, you’ll need to make a claim with your insurance company. With your inspection report in hand, you can file your claim with confidence, and you should mention that a trusted roofing company has already completed an inspection. Reputable roofing companies have formed solid partnerships with commonly used insurance companies.

After your claim is filed, have your insurance adjuster and your roofer inspect your roof together. This way, they are more likely to be on the same page about what will be covered by insurance, and your roofer can ensure all of the damage is accounted for by the insurance adjuster. This step is crucial to making sure you get the repairs you deserve.

Once your claim is approved and repairs are scheduled, what can you expect? A good roofing company will walk you through the entire process, from the initial inspection to the final repair. Here’s what the typical process looks like:

1. Initial Inspection: The roofer will inspect your roof to confirm the extent of the damage and create a plan for repairs.
2. Damage Documentation: The roofer will take detailed photos and notes to document the damage for insurance purposes.
3. Material Selection: You’ll choose from high-quality roofing materials that are designed to withstand future storms.
4. Repair or Replacement: Depending on the severity of the damage, your roof will either be repaired or fully replaced.

Final Inspection: After the work is completed, a final inspection ensures that the job was done to the highest standards.

When it comes to roofing, quality matters. Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements, so you want to make sure it’s built to last. A professional roofing company will use top-tier materials that are designed to withstand future hailstorms and other severe weather conditions. Combined with expert workmanship, these materials will ensure that your home is protected for years to come.

The timeline for repairs or replacements can vary depending on the severity of the damage and the size of your roof. In most cases, hail damage repairs are completed without significant delays. Your roofing company will keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring that the process is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Hail damage might seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can lead to major problems if left unaddressed. Don’t wait for leaks or structural issues to appear—take action now to protect your home. From the initial inspection to working with your insurance company and completing the repairs, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

Don’t wait for further damage! Protect what matters most by scheduling your complimentary, no-obligation roof inspection with Premier Roofing today.