How to Detect and Repair Hail Damage to your Roof

Written By: Dan Netko on June 30, 2009 2 Comments

by Dan Netko

The roofs over our homes and businesses offer security, protection, and comfort from the environment and our surroundings. Funny enough is how we take our roofs for granted until something goes wrong. As soon as that first leak begins it seems all our minds can focus on is the roof. That being said, one of the biggest enemies of our roofs is hail. Hail is more than capable of damaging and destroying the important part of our home. Educating ourselves on ways to detect hail damage and how to repair it can save us all time and money.

On the market today you may see some companies advertising hail proof roofs. Be warned that there is no such thing as a completely hail proof roof. Different types of roofs may hold up better to hail than other types of roofs, but none are completely invulnerable to the frozen rain. The two most widely used residential roofing materials, composite and asphalt, are both susceptible to damages. Every homeowner should be able to detect the signs of hail damage.

Each homeowners insurance policy is different; therefore you should be conscious of how the policy handles hail damage. Some insurance companies give you up to a year to make a claim, while others give you less time. Keep this in mind so you make the claim within the time period, otherwise you could be paying out of your own pocket. Know what your policy covers and how to file a claim before you have to deal with hail damage.

Asphalt shingles often times are hard for people to detect hail damage. A common misbelief people have is that if there are no shingles missing there is no damage. This is not the case though. High wind is what causing missing shingles while damage from hail is harder to see.

Pay attention during the storm, and if you believe the storm caused any damage to your house take pictures while hail is still on the ground. Having the date present on the photograph can be useful. You should also include a picture of you entire roof in one shot. Never throw these pictures away even if you feel like no damage actually occurred. If problems come up later from the storm, these pictures will be helpful.

Before you begin a thorough inspection of your roof and gutters, give it enough time to completely dry. A big sign of a worn or damage roof is asphalt granules building up where gutters drain. Be on the look out for weathered areas on your roof and photograph these also.

Always contact a roofing contractor if you are positive you have hail damage or even if you think you may. You will be able to find a company that offers free estimates and inspections and there is no harm in being safe than sorry. Once it has been determined your roof has suffered hail damage it will be time to make your insurance claim.

About the Author:

Dan Netko has been assisting people recover from severe weather damage for the last thirty years. Find out how he can assist you with all your insurance claims, roofing repairs and severe weather damage repairs today.