Hail Season is Here: How to Prevent and Repair Hail Damage on Your Roof

Hailstones can be powerful enough to wreak havoc on your roof. A sudden storm can leave a trail of cracks, leaks, and costly repair bills. Don’t wait for hail damage to happen—protect your roof now to save costs and ensure your home’s safety.

In this blog, let’s explore how to prevent and repair hail damage on your roof, protecting your home and loved ones throughout the season.

How Hail Can Damage Your Roof

Let’s begin by understanding the exact damage hail can inflict on your roof.

When checking roof damage, stay at ground level or safe vantage points. Never climb onto the roof. Instead, rely on a professional roofing company’s safe and expert assessment to determine the damage’s extent and provide solutions. 

Preventing Hail Damage to Roofs

Ready to take control? Here’s how to prevent and repair hail damage on your roof, starting with proactive mitigation.

Choosing the Best Roofing Materials for Hail Storms

Choosing a hail-resistant roof material is a long-term investment in your home’s future. Understanding the options will empower you to make well-informed choices when replacing or upgrading your roof, protecting it from potential damage during hailstorms.

Here are examples of such materials.

• Impact-Resistant Shingles: Class 4-rated shingles are designed to withstand hail and debris, minimizing upkeep and extending roof life.
• Metal Roofing: Metal roofs like stone-coated steel are highly durable and resistant. They offer added protection and aesthetic appeal and require minimal maintenance.
• Concrete Tiles: Built to last 50–100 years, concrete roofs can resist fire, rot, and insect damage, lowering maintenance and repair costs.
• Rubber Roofs: Flexible and weather-resistant, rubber roofs like EPDM can absorb hail impact, reducing the need for constant repairs.

Strengthening Your Roof with Protective Measures

Choosing the right roofing material is just part of the big plan. You also need to implement protective measures to strengthen your roof further during the hail season. Here are two quick tips for minimizing hail damage:

• Use reinforced underlayment. It’s a protective layer installed beneath roofing materials, adding durability and preventing water infiltration from hail damage.
• Ensure proper attic ventilation. It prevents moisture buildup, reducing the risk of structural weakness and maintaining the roof’s overall integrity during severe weather.

Regular Roof Inspections and Maintenance

Year-round exposure subjects your roof to the elements; therefore, regular inspections and maintenance are essential to maintaining its long-term health. Regular checks can uncover both visible and hidden issues caused by weather changes.

Early resolution prevents leaks, structural damage, and costly repairs. Avoid attempting DIY inspections, as they can be unsafe and less effective. Instead, schedule a professional roof inspection before hail season to ensure thorough assessment and timely solutions.

Hail Damage Roof Repair: What to Do After a Storm

Even with preventive measures, hail can still cause roof damage. Knowing how to react quickly when a storm hits can minimize further problems and ensure a safe, effective restoration.

Signs That Indicate Roof Damage After a Hailstorm

Identifying signs is essential to determine the necessary roof repairs and prevent further issues. Look for warning signs of hail roof damage, such as:

• Shingle granules accumulating in gutters
• Visible dents on gutters or siding
• Water leaks or stains on ceilings inside the home

If you suspect hail damage, contact a professional immediately. To prevent safety hazards and ensure a thorough evaluation, avoid inspecting the roof yourself.

What to Do While Waiting for Professional Roof Repair

As a property owner, there are few but essential actions you can take to protect your roof while awaiting professional help. Follow these steps to reduce interior damage safely.

• Use buckets or plastic sheeting to contain interior leaks.
• Move furniture or valuables away from affected areas.

When to Call a Professional for Hail Damage Roof Repair

Due to their complexity and increased safety risks, certain types of roof hail damage will require expert repair or full replacement.

• Storm-Induced Wear: Intense weather events damaging both the roof’s surface and underlying layers
• Significant Structural Compromise: Severe cracks, missing shingles, and weakened materials
• Hidden or Internal Damage: Water intrusion, mold growth, or underlayment damage

Storm Guard offers various professional roofing services to ensure your roof is restored efficiently and cost-effectively following a storm.

• Roof inspections to identify potential issues and assess your roof’s overall condition
• Roof repair services to fix damaged areas, restore functionality, and extend your roof’s lifespan
• Roof maintenance to prevent future problems and ensure your roof remains in optimal condition
• Roof damage assessment to evaluate damage and guide you through completing insurance claims
• Emergency tarping to defend your home against further damage caused by weather or leaks
• Roof installation to provide a new, durable roof tailored to your needs and preferences

How to File an Insurance Claim for Hail Damage

Hail damage can lead to significant repairs, and insurance claims are crucial for financial recovery. Learn how to ensure a smooth claims process.

• Documentation for Your Insurance Company: Take clear photos and videos and keep records of previous roof maintenance to strengthen your insurance claim.
• Navigating the Claims Process: Contact your insurer to report the damage, schedule an inspection by the adjuster, and get repair estimates from a reliable roofing contractor.
• Working with a Roofing Professional: A trusted roofing contractor can review the damage, provide detailed estimates, and help complete the necessary documentation.

Takeaway

Hail season may strike, but your roof doesn’t have to take the hit. By proactively understanding how to prevent and repair hail damage on your roof, you safeguard your home and your peace of mind. 

Storm Guard brings 20+ years of experience in providing expert roofing services that help you power through all seasons. From uncovering hidden damage to repairing your roof after hail storms, we’re here to support all your roofing needs.Contact us today for a FREE inspection and repair estimate.