When dark storm clouds gather and hailstones start to fall, it might be time for an elegant roof replacement.
Hailstorms can damage your roof, including hidden damage that may threaten your roof’s integrity in the long run.
That is why an in-depth inspection of your roof after a hailstorm is critical to ascertain any possible issues and fix them properly.
In this article, we will discuss on why you should check your roof after a hailstorm and explain how Millard Roofing can ensure that your home stays safe in the long run.
Steps to take right after a hailstorm hits your area
It is important to take immediate action after a hailstorm has passed through your area.
Here are the essential steps to follow:
Safety first
Safety first, for you and your family. If the storm persists, stay indoors until it ends.
Inspection
After the storm has passed, check your property from ground level.
Look for any clear signs of damage on your roof such as obvious dents, missing shingles, or debris lying around in the yard.
This preliminary assessment will determine if an in-depth inspection needs to be done.
Document the damage
Documenting hail damage is crucial.
Take clear and detailed pictures from different angles to capture the full effects of what occurred.
These visual records will be useful for insurance claims and will help roofing professionals during their inspection.
Check for other damage
Although you should pay the most attention to your roof, also check other weak parts of your property like windows, siding, gutters, and outdoor structures.
Hailstones can damage more than just your roof. Therefore, it is important to deal with all damage promptly.
Hail damage roof inspection
When it comes to inspecting your roof for hail damage, you have two options. You could conduct a thorough DIY inspection, or you can bring in a professional roofing contractor like Millard Roofing to conduct an extensive evaluation.
Thorough DIY inspection
A thorough DIY inspection helps you to get an initial sense of your roof condition after a hailstorm.
Look at your roof from the ground level. Inspect the gutters and downspouts for signs of damage as well the house’s interior to determine if there are any leaks or stains.
While a DIY inspection will allow you to get a general idea of the damage, you may not be able to find hidden or subtle damage that can threaten the integrity of your roof.
Professional roofing inspection
A specialist can find even the smallest signs of hail damage and weak spots.
They thoroughly inspect your roof’s structural integrity as well as investigate flashings, vents, chimneys to give you a detailed report on the damage and what repairs are necessary.
Insurance companies often require professional inspections because it provides a full appraisal of the damage.
Millard Roofing can help you with that. We offer free professional inspections!
Combining both approaches will give you a deeper insight into the status of your roof, and this in turn can help you make well-informed decisions about any roof repairs or replacement that may be necessary.
A comprehensive inspection whether done personally or professionally is critical towards maintaining the longevity and usefulness of your roof after a hailstorm.
Steps in the insurance claims process
Navigating the insurance claims process for hail damage can be complicated and frustrating.
However, understanding the process can help you simplify and speed up your claim.
Below are some key points to consider, but you can also check out our full guide to the Nebraska insurance process, too.
Prompt reporting
As soon as you notice that your roof has been damaged by hail, call your insurance company to file the necessary claims.
Many insurance policies have strict timelines to report damage, so it is critical to not delay.
Document the damage
Record the hail damage in detail before making any temporary repairs.
Capture clear pictures from every angle and show all visible markings of damage.
These images will act as critical evidence to support your claims.
Consult your policy
Know the particulars your insurance policy covers such as limits, deductibles and exclusions.
Knowing your policy’s terms and conditions will help you navigate the claims process as well as manage what to expect.
Meet with an adjuster
Your insurance company will probably send an adjuster to evaluate the hail damage.
Attend the inspection and submit your prepared documentation — photos and other proof of damage.
Make sure you relay all the details and answer the adjuster’s questions correctly.
Obtain multiple estimates
Get estimates from reputable roofing contractors for comparison with the adjuster’s determination.
This way you can ensure that the proposed repairs match the reality of the damage.
Remember to select licensed and insured contractors like Millard Roofing for reliable estimates.
Review your claim settlement
After the adjuster’s evaluation, your insurance company will offer you a settlement amount.
Perform a thorough review of the offer and compare it with your estimates.
If you feel apprehensive or think that the agreement is not enough, then you can negotiate with your insurer. If have more proof on how considerable the damage was, introduce that as well.
Proceed with repairs
After the claim settlement is completed, you can undertake necessary repairs.
Select a registered and reputed roofing contractor like Millard Roofing who can deal with the hail damage professionally.
Store all receipts and documents concerning repairs for the future.
Prevent future hail damage to your roof
Want to prevent future damage to your roof? Here’s how you can do that:
Regular maintenance: 
Conduct regular visual inspections, clean gutters, and overhanging branches, provide proper attic ventilation.
Prompt repairs: Do not let minor repairs turn into major issues by addressing them as soon as they occur.
One last thing to consider
For significant repairs or new installations, consider impact-resistant roofing options such as impact-resistant shingles, metal roofs, and synthetic materials.
These options increase the hail damage resistance and durability of your roof.
A reputable roofing contractor can help you decide on the most suitable option that meets your needs and budget.
If you have roofing concerns, contact Millard Roofing for reliable and trusted service that is delivered without a hassle.
What distinguishes us from other companies is our commitment to quality, customer satisfaction, and professionalism that makes us a dependable partner for all your roofing needs.
