Roofs are built to protect you from the elements, especially against severe weather. Though they are durable and resilient, roofs can still get significantly damaged by strong storms. Hailstorms are one of the more destructive weather phenomena that can potentially destroy sections of your residential roofing system.
Here are the basic actions you should take when dealing with hailstorm damage on your roof.
Damage Assessment
When it’s safe to do so, you should immediately go out and assess the extent of the damage on your property. Remember that hailstorms are more than just hailstones flying around – they bring strong winds as well. So, be wary of damaged structures like power lines and trees around your property. Once outside, immediately look for the biggest hailstone you can find in your yard. Photograph it, put it in a sealed bag or container, and then freeze it in your fridge. Doing this can help you prove the severity of the storm to your insurance company.
Once that’s done, go look around for blown-off shingles and other parts of your roof that’s been damaged. Note the areas where granules, shingles and other roofing debris can be found. Recording videos or taking photos of the external damage will also be helpful when filing an insurance claim. Check your roof from the ground using binoculars. You don’t need to go up to your roof yourself as you might further damage your roof and put yourself in danger. If there are visibly damaged sections – such as punctured underlayment, dents or damaged surfaces – take note of them as well.
Call Your Insurance Company and a Reputable Roofer
Once you’re done with the initial damage assessment, you should call your insurance company. The company will typically send its own roofers to check on the extent of the damage. To get the most accurate assessment, it is ideal to hire third-party roofing contractors to assess your home as well. They will be able to check your indoors and outdoors for roofing damage and more. Moreover, the information they’ll provide you can significantly help with storm damage claims.
For more than 30 years, Royal Roofing Construction has been providing locals with high-quality roofing services. From residential to commercial roofing, we are the reliable industry professionals you need.
Need a roofing inspection after a hailstorm? You can contact us at (714) 680-0015 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in Anaheim, CA, and the surrounding areas.
