Throughout Connecticut, storms are a common occurrence. Unfortunately, these storms can bring with them significant damage to your roof. Hail damage is one of the most common reasons for storm-related roofing concerns.
Hail can not only dent your roof, but it can lead to severe leaks, widespread shingle damage, and structural concerns. It’s important that you address roof hail damage quickly to limit deterioration and more serious (and costly) problems.
In this article, we are going to walk you through everything that you need to know about hail damage. From signs and repair options to insurance claims, you will find everything you need to know about mending your roof after a storm. Let’s begin.
Your Roof is Vulnerable to Hail Damage
When storms move into the area, your roof stands as a protector for your home. You don’t have to worry about the rain, wind, and hail because you’re safe inside. But, what happens to your roof? As your first line of defense against the elements, your roof is vulnerable to storm damage throughout the year, especially during storm season.
There are no barriers between your roof and the falling hail. This means that hail can directly dent, puncture, and damage your roof. Luckily, your roof protects the rest of the house, but your shingles may be broken.
It’s important that you identify hail damage quickly to prevent further complications for your roof. The longer your roof is leaking or your shingles are damaged, the more likely you are to face serious complications (including widespread water damage, mold growth, and structural disrepair). Keep reading to learn how to identify hail damage and what you need to do to prevent more expensive repair bills.
How Can You Identify Hail Damage?
If you have recently experienced a hailstorm, then you need to check your roof. You will want to check for signs of obvious damage, whether that’s missing shingles, a leak, or broken gutters. Even minor damage can escalate, leading to water damage and structural concerns for your roof. Below, learn a few of the most common signs of hail damage.
1. Dents in the Shingles
When hail falls, it can dent your shingles. This can lead to breakage, punctures, and leaks. Whether just a few small dents or many large dents across the entire roof, you will want to address any denting quickly.
2. Broken or Missing Shingles
You may notice shingles lying in your yard or gutters. You may also see bare spots on your roof, or you may see clearly broken shingles. Missing or damaged shingles need to be replaced so that you don’t face leaking and further damage to your roof.
3. Dented or Warped Gutters
Not only can hail damage your shingles, but it can also damage your gutter systems. You may find that your gutters and downspouts have been dented. This can lead to clogs in your gutter system. In addition, you may find holes or warping in your gutters. Any gutter issues should be addressed so that you don’t develop drainage problems.
4. Roof Leaks
If you can’t see obvious damage on your roof, you may find that you develop leaks. This can happen immediately during the storm, or you may not notice it until the next rainshower moves in. Signs of leaking include dripping noises, moisture in your attic, and stains on your ceilings and walls. You may also just see the water leaking in. All leaks require immediate attention because water damage can lead to mold growth, rotting, and structural collapse.
While you may notice broken shingles or leaks, hail damage is not always visible from the ground. Because of this, it’s always best to call in your local roofing company for a complete roof inspection. Your roofers will look for any signs of damage that you couldn’t see from ground level. Then, they will help you determine the best plan to mend your roof.
Do You Need Roof Repair or Roof Replacement?
Many homeowners want to opt for the cheapest, easiest way to repair their roof after hail damage. However, this is often not the best strategy to keep a sturdy roof over your home. In many cases of significant hail damage, roof replacement is the best long-term plan. Smaller repairs may work for a while, but you often find yourself dealing with frequent leaks, more missing shingles, and continuous stress. Instead, a roof replacement can give you peace of mind, knowing you have a reliable roof to keep you, your family, and your home protected.
Explore the reasons you may need a roof replacement, as opposed to just repairs, below.
1. Widespread Damage
Hail has a tendency to cause widespread damage across your roof, not just to one isolated area. When hail falls, it can dent or puncture multiple areas of your roof. It won’t make sense to patch or repair many areas, as this will just lead to recurrent leaks, shingle loss, and headaches. Instead, it’s going to be best to replace your roof.
2. Obvious Punctures
If you can see punctures through your shingles, there is likely underlying damage as well. Hail can penetrate through the shingles and damage the underlying supportive structures for your roof. Unfortunately, this often means that you will need a roof replacement. Otherwise, you will face continuous leaks and structural concerns over time.
3. Significant Leaks
Storms that produce hail also typically include heavy rain. If the hail has damaged your roof and allowed water to seep into your roofing materials, attic space, ceilings, and walls, then you are likely to need a roof replacement. Water damage is difficult, if not impossible, to repair without replacement. In addition, you don’t want to leave a leak or water damage alone because you will develop mold growth and rotting, which are far more costly and stressful. Instead, you’ll want to opt for roof replacement if hail has caused significant leaking.
Will Insurance Cover a Roof Replacement for Hail Damage?
If you are facing hail damage, you are probably worried about the cost of replacing your roof. However, there is good news. Often, homeowners insurance will cover roof replacements due to hail damage. Like other storm damage, you will want to contact a trusted roofing company for an inspection. They can help you determine whether your insurance is likely to cover the replacement. Then, your roofers can help you with the process.
To receive insurance coverage for your roof hail damage, you’ll need to first refer to your individual policy. Check for covered perils to ensure hail damage repair is included. Most often, it will be. Then, you’ll want to contact a roofer and see if you need an immediate replacement. Once your roofers complete an inspection, they will help you with the insurance claim process. You will likely be responsible for your deductible amount, and then the rest of the roof replacement will be covered by your insurance policy.
Do you have more questions about insurance coverage for roof hail damage and storm damage? Contact Rhino-Back Roofing now for expert guidance.
What Should You Do If You Need Storm Damage Repair for Your Roof?
When you suspect storm or hail damage, you need to get professional assistance immediately. You’ll want to book a roof inspection to identify any issues and find the best repair plan. By acting quickly, you limit further damage and prevent more expensive bills.
Once you have had an inspection, you’ll need to follow through on the roof replacement. Whether you have minor damage that can simply be repaired or you need an entire roof replacement, you will want to schedule your roofing services as soon as possible.
If your roof hail damage will be covered by insurance, your roofing team can help you through the process. This way, you won’t have to struggle to navigate insurance on your own.
Overall, the best thing you can do when you suspect hail damage is to reach out to a roofing company, such as our team at Rhino-Back Roofing. We specialize in hail and storm damage roof replacement, and we know how to navigate insurance claims so that you can get the maximum compensation you will need.
If you’re dealing with hail damage, now is the time to call our roofers.
Get a FREE Inspection for Roof Hail Damage Today!
Are you dealing with hail damage in Connecticut? Don’t let it cause you any stress. Rhino-Back Roofing is here to help. We offer FREE roof inspections so that we can look for any signs of damage. Then, we can help you with your insurance claim and provide rapid and reliable solutions for you. From the initial inspection to the emergency roof replacement, our roofers are ready to help.
Contact Rhino-Back Roofing today to book your free roofing inspection and get immediate assistance for your hail damage concerns.