Hailstorms can leave a drastic trail of destruction, with one of the most vulnerable targets being our roofs. As a homeowner, experiencing hail damage on your roof is overwhelming and disturbing. From knocking off a couple of shingles to cracking your roof’s foundation, hailstorm causes damage that needs instant attention.
But what can you do if hail damages your roof?
Here, we explore various solutions to quickly repair the damage to your roof so you can stay comfortable and safe within your home.
#1 Assessing the Damage
When hail strikes your roof, it’s crucial to assess the extent of the damage before taking any action. Here’s what you need to do.
Safety First
Your safety should always be the top priority. After a hailstorm, carefully inspect your surroundings for hazards such as broken tree limbs, power lines, or loose debris. If you notice any immediate dangers, follow the safety tips while working with the roof proactively.
Visual Inspection
Once you’ve ensured your safety, inspect your roof from the ground. Look for any signs of damage, such as dented or dislodged shingles, cracked tiles, or missing granules. Binoculars can be handy for a closer examination. Take notes or photographs to document the damage, which will be helpful for insurance claims and repairs.
Interior Check
While hail damage is often visible from the exterior, inspecting your home’s interior is also essential. Look for signs of water leaks or ceiling discoloration in the attic or upper floors. Check for wet spots or dampness on walls, ceilings, or light fixtures. These indicators could suggest damage that requires immediate attention.
#2 Seeking Professional Assistance
When your roof is damaged by hail, consult professional assistance to ensure proper repairs. Here are the steps to take:
Contact Your Insurance Company
The first step after hail damage is to contact your insurance company. They are there to assist you and guide you through the claim process. Be sure to provide them with all the necessary information, including photographs and any possible proof to back your claim. They will inform you about your coverage and the following steps.
Consult Roofing Professionals
Reach out to reputable roofing professionals for a thorough inspection and repair estimate. Look for a local roofing contractor in Burlington NJ, with a proven track record in handling hail damage repairs.
After the hailstorm, roofers from across the country offer their services door-to-door. Be aware of such offers, as they won’t be available for follow-ups and claims. Request multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price, and consider their experience, expertise, and customer reviews before deciding.
Schedule Regular Checkups
Once your roof is repaired, it’s important to schedule regular checkups to ensure proper maintenance. Regular inspections by professionals can help identify potential issues early on, allowing for timely repairs before the issue extends. Have your roof inspected at least once yearly, preferably before and after hail seasons or other severe weather conditions.
#3 Temporary Protective Measures
While waiting for professional repairs or during severe damage, temporary protective measures can minimize further harm. Consider the following steps:
Covering Damaged Areas
Use tarps or heavy-duty plastic sheets to cover damaged sections of your roof. Secure them tightly to prevent wind or rain from entering. This temporary measure helps prevent additional water intrusion until permanent repairs can be made.
Clearing Debris
Remove any loose debris or fallen branches from your roof to prevent potential clogging of gutters and drainage systems. Use appropriate safety equipment when accessing your roof to avoid accidents.
Restrict Water Damage
If water is entering your home due to the damage, place buckets or containers strategically to collect the water and prevent it from causing further interior damage. Wipe the water on the floor and ensure proper ventilation to minimize the risk of mold growth.
Key Takeaways
Maintaining your roof in its best shape and timely repairing damages is important to protect your home from elements and weather conditions. While a hailstorm can severely damage your roof, taking the immediate actions discussed above ensures there’s no further harm, your roof gets repaired, and you have peace of mind.
Safety should always come first. Before inspecting your roof, assess your surroundings for potential hazards and contact the appropriate authorities if needed. Once you’ve ensured your safety, check for damages on your home’s exterior and interior, and document the damage to support your insurance claim.
Once you have inspected the damages, inform your insurance company and provide them with all the necessary information to initiate the claim process. Next, consult reputable roofing professionals who specialize in hail damage repairs.
While waiting for professional repairs, take temporary protective measures such as covering damaged areas, clearing debris, and restricting water damage.
By following these guidelines and seeking professional assistance, you can address hail damage effectively and restore your roof’s strength.
