Have you ever noticed damage to your car after a hailstorm? Well, did you know that hail can also cause damage to your roof? It can actually shorten the lifespan of your roof and may even require a complete replacement. Here’s the thing – identifying hail damage on a roof can be tricky if you don’t know where to look. But what does hail damage on a roof look like?
That’s where All Star Roofing can assist! For over 60 years, their experienced team has been helping Tampa homeowners navigate through the insurance process and ensure their roofs receive necessary repairs.
In this article, we’ll teach you how to identify hail damage on your roof from the ground and share three essential steps for starting the insurance process. Let’s dive in and uncover what hail damage looks like on roofs!
What Does Hail Damage Look Like on Your Roof?
Hail damage on your roof may be easily identifiable or more subtle, depending on its size. If it measures at least an inch across, then you will probably spot visible dents or dings in your shingles caused by large hailstones that pass over them.
However, it is important to keep in mind that hail damage can still happen even without visible dents on your roof’s surface. Dings, dents, and splatters on vents, gutters, and flashing may all indicate hail damage as indicators of this kind.
If your roof has experienced any of the damages listed, you could be eligible to file a claim with your homeowners’ insurance. When first suspecting roof damage, it can be tempting to contact a roofing contractor immediately, but instead, make your first phone call to your insurer.
As much as local roofing contractors can assist with this process, any repairs or replacements won’t begin until an insurance adjuster approves your claim. Therefore, it is vital that you follow proper procedure and await approval before undertaking any work.
How to Determine If There Is Hail Damage
Anyone who does not know how to safely walk on a rooftop should not check for damage. It’s not necessary to risk your life when an insurance agent comes to inspect the roof.
Understandably, you want to make sure your claim is legitimate. Here is a list to help you check for hail damage while standing on the ground.
- Downspouts: above 5 feet so that it cannot be blamed on the lawnmower.
- Garage door dents or strikes
- Holes in your window screens
- Paint or wood shutters can be damaged by dents
- Electric meter, AC unit, or grill splatter marks
- Dents in your mailbox or other soft metals
- Dents in the top and hood of your vehicle
This list does not mean that your roof has suffered extensive hail damage. This list is only to give you an idea of whether you need to contact your insurer and make a claim.
3 Things You Should Know Before Filing an Insurance Claim
You should know a few things before you file a claim. Here are three things you should know before filing an insurance claim.
1. Insurance Is Confusing and Muddy
The roofing and insurance industries have not always had the best reputation. Regrettably, numerous roofing and insurance companies may not prioritize your best interests.
We often describe the insurance process as murky and perplexing, which creates an opportunity for certain companies to exploit homeowners who are in desperate need of roof repairs.
However, it is important to note that not all insurance or roofing companies are out to take advantage. MI intends to inform you that there are individuals on both sides who may attempt to exploit stressful situations.
To avoid finding yourself in a similar situation, it is crucial to be aware of this possibility right from the beginning. Stay informed and vigilant throughout the process.
2. Do Not Sign Anything Until Your Roof Insurance Claim Is Approved
If your roof suffers storm damage, it is essential not to panic. Wait until your insurance claim has been approved before signing any paperwork. Some companies may try to have you sign contracts that grant them rights over your roof even before your claim has been approved. This can result in you being unable to choose your roofer.
A trustworthy roofing contractor will assist you in navigating the insurance claim process and provide an honest evaluation of whether your roof has sustained storm damage or not. If your insurance claim is approved, the contractor will then professionally request your business.
3. Sometimes Insurance Adjusters Make Mistakes
Even insurance adjusters are prone to making mistakes. Though insurance adjusters are usually well trained to identify storm damage, mistakes can occur and valid claims denied by them.
Getting denied for storm damage doesn’t need to be cause for alarm; simply conduct a comprehensive roof inspection yourself to assess if storm damage exists.
Seeking a second opinion by inviting another adjuster to inspect your roof is often advised; however, even if your initial adjuster approves of your claim, another adjuster could deny it.
If you believe there is storm damage despite a second adjuster’s denial, you can still have an engineer assess your roof. This will provide you with evidence to support your claim that the roof needs to be replaced due to storm damage.
Our Roof Repair Experts Can Help
Are you tired of constantly worrying about potential leaks and water damage caused by hail-damaged roofs? All Star Roofing is here to provide reliable Tampa roof repair services.
We understand the frustration of dealing with weakened roofs that compromise the safety and security of your home. From missing shingles to compromised structural integrity, we’ve got you covered.
Contact All Star Roofing today for a personalized solution to all your roof repair needs.
Other Services We Offer
- ROOF INSTALLATION
- RE-ROOFING
- SHINGLE ROOFS
- TILE ROOFING
- FLAT ROOFING
- METAL ROOFING
- EMERGENCY ROOF REPAIR
- HURRICANE HELP