Hailstorms can be tough on your house, especially the roof. Hail can range from tiny pebbles to big ice balls, all of which can hurt your roof.
Many folks aren’t sure what to do when their roof gets damaged by hail. We’re going to cover:
- Why different hail sizes are bad news
- How to see if hail damaged your roof
- Steps to fix it
- How much it might cost
- If insurance might help pay for repairs
Why Hail Is Bad News for Your Roof
Hail can be small or big, but all sizes can cause trouble. Even little hail can mess up roofs made of softer stuff, like asphalt shingles. Big hail can make bigger problems, like holes, broken tiles, or lost shingles. Hail hitting fast makes things worse, causing bigger damage.
How to Spot Hail Damage
After hail hits, check your roof quickly for harm. Look for:
- Dents or cracks in shingles
- Missing bits from asphalt shingles
- Bruises or soft spots on shingles
- Hurt metal parts around chimneys and vents
Fixing Your Roof After Hail: 5 Steps
Fixing hail damage needs a careful look and pros who know their stuff. Here’s what happens:
- Inspection: A pro checks your roof to see how bad the damage is.
- Documenting Damage: Take photos and notes of the damage, which helps if you need to talk to insurance.
- Quick Fixes: If there are leaks, some quick repairs might be needed to stop more harm.
- Fix or Replace: Some parts of the roof might need to be fixed or swapped out.
- Seal and Finish: After fixes, the roof gets sealed up and finished to keep it safe from weather.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix?
The cost to fix hail damage changes based on how bad the damage is, what your roof is made of, and how much the pro charges. On average, fixing hail damage might cost a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. It’s a good idea to get a few estimates and check what each one includes.
Will Insurance Help Pay?
Lots of home insurance plans cover hail damage. But, what’s covered can change based on your insurance.
Here’s what to think about:
- Limits: Know what your plan covers for hail damage.
- Deductibles: This is what you pay before insurance helps. Make sure it’s a cost you can handle.
- Filing a Claim: If you’ve got hail damage, call your insurance to start a claim. Have your photos and repair estimates ready.
- The Claim Process: An adjuster from insurance will look at the damage to decide on coverage. Once it’s okayed, you can start repairs.
- Extra Claims: Sometimes, more damage is found during repairs. If so, you might need to ask for more coverage.
Knowing these steps and info can make dealing with hail damage less stressful. Always check with a professional to make sure your roof is safe and sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Can I Tell If My Roof Has Hail Damage?
You can spot hail damage by looking for:
- Dents or cracks in your shingles.
- Missing granules from asphalt shingles, leaving exposed roof material.
- Soft spots or bruises on the shingles where hail has compromised the integrity.
- Damage to the metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights.
It’s always a good idea to get a professional roofing contractor to inspect your roof for a thorough assessment.
2. Should I Attempt DIY Repairs for Minor Hail Damage?
While minor damage might seem manageable, it’s best to consult with a professional before attempting DIY repairs. Improperly repaired hail damage can lead to bigger issues, like leaks or further damage to your roof. A professional can ensure repairs are done correctly and safely.
3. How Soon After Hail Damage Should I Get My Roof Repaired?
It’s important to address hail damage as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home. Begin by getting a roof inspection to assess the extent of the damage. Delays can lead to leaks, water damage, and other structural issues, which might increase the cost of repairs over time.
4. Will My Insurance Cover the Cost of Hail Damage Repairs?
Many homeowners’ insurance policies cover hail damage, but coverage can vary greatly. Consider the following:
- Review your policy to understand what types of hail damage are covered.
- Check your deductible to see how much you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket.
- Contact your insurance provider promptly to file a claim and provide the necessary documentation, such as photos and repair estimates.
Consulting with your insurance provider and getting a professional roof inspection are key steps in addressing hail damage on your roof.
