Hailstorms only last a few minutes but can cause significant damage to your home, particularly your roof. Even small hailstones can weaken shingles, create leaks, and compromise the structural integrity of your roof. If your home has recently experienced a hailstorm, it’s crucial to take immediate action to assess and repair any damage before it worsens. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do after a hailstorm damages your roof.

1. Inspect Your Roof for Visible Damage

After a hailstorm, conduct a visual inspection of your roof from the ground. Look for:

• Missing or lifted shingles

• Granule buildup on ground or in gutters

• Bruises or dark on gutters

• Dents on metal roofing

• Broken or displaced flashing around vents and chimneys

Hail damage is very hard to see from the ground level of your home. The safest option is to look at your gutters and car if it was outside during the storm. If you see dents or dings on either, it’s safe to assume your roof also has damage. Call a local roofing company ASAP for help with storm damage roofing repairs.

2. Check for Leaks and Interior Damage

Sometimes, hail damage isn’t immediately visible on the exterior but can lead to issues inside your home. Inspect your attic and ceilings for:

• Water stains or discoloration

• Damp insulation

• Mold or mildew growth

• Dripping water

These signs can indicate a roof leak caused by hail damage, requiring urgent attention.

3. Document the Damage for Insurance Claims

Before making repairs, take detailed photos and videos of any damage. Capture close-up images of affected shingles, gutters, siding, and windows. These records will be essential when filing an insurance claim for roof repairs or replacement.

4. Contact Your Homeowners Insurance Provider

Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover hail damage, but the claims process can be complex. To ensure a smooth experience:

• Report the damage immediately to your insurance company

• Provide them with the photos and documentation you collected

• Request an inspection from their adjuster to assess the damage

Working with a roofing contractor with experience in insurance claims can help streamline the process.

5. Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection

While a basic visual inspection can help you identify major issues, only a professional roofer can provide an in-depth assessment. A roofing expert will:

• Identify hidden damage not visible to the untrained eye

• Provide an estimate for necessary repairs or replacement

• Offer guidance on working with your insurance company

6. Prevent Further Damage with Temporary Fixes

If your roof is missing shingles or has leaks, take temporary measures to minimize further damage while waiting for repairs:

• Use a tarp to cover exposed areas

• Place buckets or containers under leaks to catch dripping water

• Remove wet insulation and dry affected areas to prevent mold growth

In most cases, a local roofing company with experience in storm damage roofing repairs can do this during the initial inspection. If you are a homeowner with little experience in roofing, it’s not a good idea to handle this task yourself. It can be dangerous to climb on your roof, especially if the shingles are wet from rain. Keep your safety in mind and hire a professional!

7. Hire a Reputable Roofing Contractor

Choosing the right roofing contractor is critical to ensuring quality repairs. Look for a company that:

• Is licensed and insured

• Has experience in storm damage roof repairs

• Provides warranties on materials and workmanship

• Has positive reviews and references from past customers

Beware of storm chasers—contractors who appear after major storms offering quick, cheap repairs but may leave town before completing the job properly.

8. Understand Your Repair and Replacement Options

Depending on the extent of the hail damage, you may need either roof repairs or a full replacement. Your roofer will help determine the best solution based on:

• The age of your roof

• The severity of the hail damage

• Your insurance coverage

If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, a full replacement may be the most cost-effective long-term solution.

9. Upgrade to Hail-Resistant Roofing Materials

If you need a roof replacement, consider upgrading to impact-resistant materials to better protect your home from future hailstorms. Options include:

• Impact-resistant asphalt shingles (Class 4-rated)

• Metal roofing, which withstands hail better than traditional shingles

• Slate or tile roofing, which offers durability but may require additional structural support

Many insurance companies offer discounts on premiums for impact-resistant roofing materials, so check with your provider.

10. Schedule Routine Roof Maintenance

To minimize future storm damage, keep up with regular roof maintenance, including:

• Cleaning gutters to prevent water buildup

• Trimming overhanging tree branches

• Inspecting the roof after severe weather

• Scheduling annual professional roof inspections

Preventative roof maintenance is the best (and cheapest!) way to prolong the life of your roof system and prevent costly repair bills.

Final Thoughts

Hail damage can lead to costly repairs if left unaddressed, but by taking immediate action, you can protect your home and save money in the long run. If your roof has suffered hail damage, document the damage, contact your insurance provider, and hire a trusted roofing contractor to handle the repairs.

By investing in high-quality roofing materials and proactive maintenance, you can better safeguard your home against future storms. If you need expert help with hail damage repair, contact a professional roofer today for a free inspection.