(833) 384-2779
Hail damage can cause a wide array of damage to your home and property. When hailstones fall, they can cause dents, cracks, and even structural issues that may not be immediately visible. In this blog, we’ll walk you through everything you need about hail damage—how to identify it, assess its severity, and repair it. We’ll also cover how to hire a professional, work with your insurance, and understand the costs involved. Whether dealing with a damaged roof or siding, early detection and proper action are crucial to preventing further problems and saving on repair costs. Here at Happy Home Roofing, we are determined to help you with all your hail damage needs!
What is Hail Damage?
The Impact of Hail on Homes and Vehicles
Hail damage occurs when ice pellets, ranging from the size of peas to racquetball (and even larger), fall from the sky during thunderstorms. When these ice chunks strike surfaces like roofs, cars, and siding, they can cause many problems. Roofs, for example, are often the most vulnerable part of a home. Hailstones can tear off shingles, crack roofing tiles, or erode the protective granules that cover asphalt shingles.
Common Signs of Hail Damage
The signs of hail damage are often straightforward to spot if you know what to look for. Common indicators of hail damage on roofs include missing shingles, dented flashing, or granules that have fallen off and collected in gutters or downspouts. Roofs may also develop soft spots or holes, mainly if the hailstones are large and the roof material is aging. Look for cracks, chips, or dents in the siding, especially in the parts of the house that faced the storm. Hail can sometimes break windows if the stones are large enough or fall with enough force.
How to Locate Hail Damage
Inspecting Your Roof
The roof is typically the most affected area in a hailstorm. Without the correct training or equipment, inspecting thoroughly is also one of the most challenging tasks. Start by visually checking the roof from the ground, looking for any prominent indentations, cracks, or missing shingles. If you can access your attic safely, use a flashlight to examine the roof underneath for leaks, water stains, or visible cracks in the ceiling or beams.
Inspecting Siding and Windows
If your home has vinyl, aluminum, or wood siding, scrutinize it for cracks, holes, or dents. Vinyl siding is especially vulnerable to hail and may crack or shatter, exposing your home to water damage. For brick or stucco exteriors, check for any noticeable cracks or chips. Windows should also be checked for chips, cracks, or signs of shattered glass, as hail can cause substantial damage to window panes if the storm is severe enough.
Gutters may also become damaged during a hailstorm. Look for bent or dented gutters and downspouts, and ensure they are debris-free. Long-term damage can include water pooling around the foundation of your house, which can be caused by blocked or damaged gutters, which can eventually lead to a causing.
How to Assess Hail Damage
Look for Visible Indicators
Start by closely examining any areas that have been affected by the storm. Visible dents, cracks, and missing parts immediately indicate that the hailstorm caused some damage. On the roof, the damage could include missing or damaged shingles, visible granule loss, and bent or cracked flashing. Checking your windows and siding for cracks or chips is equally essential to address all visible damage.
Check for Secondary Damage
Even if the damage seems minimal initially, hail can cause secondary problems that may not be immediately apparent. A roof with minor hail damage may eventually leak over time, leading to mold growth or wood rot in the attic. Similarly, a cracked window could let in water during the next rainstorm, further damaging your property.
If you notice prominent or minor water stains on your ceiling or walls, it could imply that the hail damage permits moisture to penetrate. You can indicate more extensive damage by checking the inside of your house for any signs of water damage, like cracks or missing shingles.
Use a Professional to Get an Accurate Assessment
While inspecting the damage yourself is helpful, hiring a professional for a more thorough evaluation is always a good idea. Contractors at Happy Home Roofing and insurance adjusters have experience identifying even the most subtle hail damage, and they can provide expert advice on what repairs are necessary. They can also inspect all areas of your property, including spots you might overlook.
How to Hire a Professional
Look for Certified Experts
Always check for proper licensing, certifications, and insurance when hiring a contractor or repair specialist. Roofing professionals should be licensed and carry insurance; working on a roof is dangerous. Verify with any experts you contact if they have experience with hail damage specifically, as repairing storm damage demands additional skills and materials compared to routine repairs.
Get Numerous Quotes
Accepting the first estimate you receive can lead to overpaying for the work you need. It’s a good practice to get quotes from multiple contractors. Getting numerous quotes allows you to compare services and warranties between companies and gives you a sense of the fair market price. Be sure to ask each professional about the materials they’ll use, the estimated repair timeline, and the warranty they offer on their work.
Check References and Reviews
Take the time to read reviews and ask for references before you commit to any repair services. Reputable contractors can list previous customers who can attest to their work grades. Online reviews on sites can give you an idea of a company’s reputation and reliability. A contractor or repair shop with positive feedback is likelier to deliver high-quality work than a company with lower reviews.
The Process of Fixing Hail Damage
Roof Repair or Replacement
Fixing hail damage on your roof typically starts with a detailed inspection to evaluate the extent of the damage. Severe damage generally warrants a complete roof replacement; luckily, minor damage may only require a few replacement shingles. Roofers will also check the underlayment and other structural components for hidden damage. Repair may include re-shingling, resealing flashing, and addressing leaks. If the damage is extensive, you might need to replace the whole roof, which can be a much more significant expense than expected.
Siding, Window, and Gutter Repair
Siding and window repair typically involves replacing damaged sections of siding or panes of glass. Vinyl siding can crack or become brittle when hit by hailstones, potentially requiring section replacement.
Window replacement is a similar process, requiring the installation of new glass or frames to restore the structural integrity of your home. Gutters may need straightened or replaced if bent or damaged during the storm.
Contacting Insurance
Review Your Policy
Review your policy before contacting your insurance company to understand what’s covered and what’s not. Most homeowners insurance policies cover hail damage; verifying your coverage limits and deductibles is essential. You may have additional coverage options if you live in an area prone to hailstorms.
Document the Damage
When filing an insurance claim, be sure to document all damage. Create a list of damages, take pictures of the affected areas from numerous angles, and submit your claim. Thorough documentation will help expedite the claims procedure and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Work with an Insurance Adjuster
Insurance adjusters examine the damage to your property after you file your claim. The adjuster will assess the damage and decide what your policy covers. Be present during the inspection to ensure the adjuster notes all damage, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on anything you don’t understand.
Costs of Hail Damage Repairs
Roof Repairs
The cost of repairing hail damage to a roof depends on your roof’s dimensions and the damage’s severity. The price can be anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to several thousand. For minor repairs, expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000, while more extensive repairs or replacements can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000. Insurance may cover much of the cost, but you’ll likely be responsible for paying your deductible.
Siding and Window Repairs
If you replace siding and windows after hail damage, the cost is typically between $2,000 and $10,000 or more.Costs will depend on the material, the area’s size, and the extent of the damages on your property. Your insurance coverage will rely on your specific policy for your property and home. It’s essential to verify what damage your homeowner’s insurance covers regarding your windows, siding, and other exteriors.
Conclusion
Hail damage is known to be deceptive at first glance. At first, it appears minimal but leads to more significant issues if ignored. Your roof, car, and siding require timely repair to deter further damage and costly repairs. If you’ve experienced hail damage, take action immediately—contact a professional for an inspection, file your insurance claim, and get your property repaired. Don’t wait for the damage to get worse.
Need help with hail damage repairs? Contact Happy Home Roofing today and get a free consultation!
