How to Address Hail Damage on a Roof: A Homeowners Guide

Hailstorms can wreak havoc on your roof, leaving behind a trail of damage that needs immediate attention. As a homeowner, it’s crucial to know how to address hail damage efficiently and effectively. 

This helpful guide will walk you through the necessary steps you should take to assess the extent of the damage, contact your insurance company, choose the right contractor, repair the hail damage, and even prevent future damage.

How Do You Address Hail Damage on Your Roof?

From inspection to documentation and the insurance claim process, addressing hail damage on your roof requires a step-by-step approach. Let’s understand the strategy in better detail.

#1 Inspecting and Documenting the Damage

You need to take a closer look at your roof to see just how much damage the hailstorm has caused. Don’t forget to document it by taking pictures and videos of the damaged areas.

👉 Start by examining the shingles on your roof. Look for any signs of cracking, dents, or missing pieces. Hail can cause roofing shingles to become dislodged or damaged, which can lead to leaks and further problems if it’s not addressed promptly. 

👉 Pay close attention to the edges and corners of the shingles, as these areas are more vulnerable to hail damage. 

👉 Check for any granule loss on the shingles. Hail impact can cause the protective granules to loosen and come off, exposing the underlying material to potential damage.

In addition to inspecting the shingles, it is essential to examine other components of your roof for hail damage. 

👉 Check the gutters and downspouts for any dents or dings, as these can indicate the force of the hail impact. 

👉 Inspect the flashing material around chimneys, vents, and skylights for any signs of damage or displacement. Hail can cause the flashing to become loose or crack, which can lead to leaks. 

👉 Finally, examine the attic for any signs of water stains or dampness. Hail damage can result in roof leaks that may not be immediately visible from the exterior. 

If you find multiple issues, you must consult a professional. Choose a qualified and reputable roofing contractor who has experience with storm or hail damage roof repair and restoration.

#2 Finding a Good Storm Damage Roofing Company

Hail damage requires specialized expertise for efficient repairs. Here’s a more focused approach to finding a reputable roofing company to handle your hail damage:

👉 Find A Contractor Who Specializes in Hail Damage

Look for roofing companies that specialize in hail damage. Hail damage is unique to deal with, requiring a thorough understanding of how hail impacts roofing materials and what kind of materials and products are best for repairs. They will have knowledge of impact-resistance ratings and materials required for repair or replacement.

👉 Ask For Referrals Specific to Hail Damage

Request referrals from the roofing company for customers who’ve had their hail-damaged roof repaired. Reach out to these referrals to inquire about their experiences with the company regarding hail damage roof inspection, repairs, and interactions with insurance companies. Their feedback will provide valuable insights into the company’s performance.

👉 Check for Certifications

Verify that the roofing company has the necessary certifications related to hail damage repair. Certifications from established organizations like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) or manufacturers of roofing materials, like GAF, indicate a commitment to quality workmanship and expertise in dealing with hail damage.

👉 Assistance with Insurance Claims

Inquire if the roofing company can assist you with the storm damage insurance claims. Many reputable roofing companies are trained to work with insurance companies and offer insurance claim guidance or assistance to homeowners. They can help prepare the required documentation and help you communicate with the insurance adjuster.

👉 Insurance Claim Assistance

Work closely with your roofing contractor, who can assist you in documenting the hail damage for the insurance claim. They can provide the required photographs, reports, and estimates to support your claim. Some roofing companies have experience liaising with insurance adjusters, streamlining the claims process, and ensuring that all necessary information is provided.

To navigate the insurance claim process for hail damage successfully, you must have a comprehensive understanding of your insurance policy.

#3 Understanding Your Insurance Policy

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you grasp the key elements of your policy:

👉 Review Coverage Types

Familiarize yourself with the different coverage types in your insurance policy, especially those related to hail damage. The most common types of coverage include dwelling coverage (for the structure of your home), personal property coverage (for your belongings), and additional living expenses coverage (for living elsewhere while repairs are conducted).

👉 Identify Hail Damage Coverage

Determine the extent to which roof hail damage is covered by your policy. Some policies may cover only specific perils, so it’s essential to confirm that hail damage is explicitly included. Understand the deductibles and limits associated with hail damage coverage.

👉 Check for Exclusions or Limitations

Be aware of any exclusions or limitations related to hail damage in your policy. Some policies may have specific exclusions or restrictions based on the age or condition of the roof, geographic location, or types of roofing materials. Knowing these exclusions will set clear expectations for your claim.

👉 Understand Deductibles

Clarify the deductible amount that applies to hail damage claims. Deductibles are the portion of the repair costs you are responsible for before the insurance coverage kicks in. Knowing this amount will help you plan and budget for the repairs.

👉 Verify Claim Filing Deadlines

Check your insurance policy for the time frame within which you need to file a claim after experiencing hail damage. Adhering to these deadlines is crucial to make sure your roof insurance claim is processed in a timely manner.

Now, it’s time to understand the repair process for hail-damaged roofs, focusing on the specialized techniques and materials required to restore your roof properly.

#4 Repairing Hail Damage on a Roof

Let’s understand the hail-specific strategies for repairing your roof.

👉 Hail Damage Detection Techniques

Roofing professionals use specific techniques to detect hail damage accurately. They may conduct “hail hit” tests to identify the size and intensity of the hail impact on the roof. Additionally, they look for patterns of damage, such as circular shaped dents, to determine the severity and hail size.

👉 Hail Damage Repair Techniques

The repair process for hail damage involves specialized techniques. For minor hail damage, roofing professionals may use techniques like filling dented shingles or applying sealants to cracks. In more severe cases, damaged shingles or underlayment material may need to be replaced to restore the roof’s integrity.

👉 Utilizing Hail-Resistant Materials

Opt for Class 4 impact resistant materials that are designed to resist hail damage. Impact-resistant materials like fiberglass or rubber-reinforced asphalt shingles, metal panels, or composite materials can effectively withstand hail impact. These shingles are engineered to absorb and disperse the force of hailstones, minimizing damage.

Consider using rubberized underlayment as an additional layer of protection against hail damage. This underlayment acts as a buffer between the shingles and the roof deck, providing an extra level of defense against hail impacts.

However, protecting your roof from hail damage isn’t limited to repairs. You must take proper care and follow preventive roof maintenance practices to avoid major damage in the future.

#5 Preventing Future Damage

Ensuring the resilience of your roof against future hailstorms is vital to maintaining its longevity and structural integrity. Here are specific measures to help you prevent future hail damage:

👉 Regular Roof Inspections

Conduct regular roof inspections, especially after severe weather events, to detect any signs of wear, tear, or damage. Early detection allows you to make timely repairs which is crucial for tackling minor issues that may escalate into major problems.

👉 Trim Overhanging Branches and Trees

Overhanging branches or trees with dense foliage near your house can pose a risk during a hailstorm. Trim branches that could potentially break and fall on your roof during a storm. This proactive measure can help reduce the risk of impact damage from falling branches and debris during a hailstorm.

By collaborating with storm damage roofing experts and understanding your insurance policy, you empower yourself to mitigate current damage and fortify your roof against future hailstorms. Stay proactive, prioritize roof health, and secure your home’s shelter for years to come.

Let Us Take Care Of Your Hail-Damaged Roof In Wisconsin, Minnesota, Or Missouri

At ReNew Roofing, we’ve been protecting homes and buildings from storm damage for years! Our roofing experts are well-trained and certified in tackling all types of storm damage to roofs effectively, and are known for their prompt, caring, and effective roof restoration approach. If you are looking for emergency roofing services in Wisconsin, Minnesota or Missouri, call us at (833) 715-7663. Our team is always ready to come out and help the community with roof tarping, storm damage roof repairs, and replacements. Schedule a free consultation and inspection with our experts and learn why countless residents trust us with the safety of their property.

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