Got Hail? Here’s What Homeowners Must Know About Hailstorms

By Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions. 

If your roof has recently been damaged by hail, here are some steps you can take to repair it. 

Checking your roof for damage after a hailstorm is crucial, especially because many roofs may need to be replaced. It’s not always easy to spot hail damage, but we have some tips on what to look for. If your roof does end up needing to be replaced, we recommend a few materials you can have installed that have a great hail impact rating. 

Here is some guidance to assist you after a hailstorm: 

Has your roof been damaged by hail? 

If severe hail rolls through, it’s essential to check on the condition of your roof. Leaks can happen weeks after hail damage has occurred, so don’t wait for problems to show up. If you can’t reach your roof safely, have a roofing contractor come check it out. 

Here’s what to look for: 

• Roof particles in your gutters and around downspouts    
• Dents on the roof vents and metal flashing 
• Aesthetic damage such as chips, cracks, bruises or dark blemishes to the roof covering  

Over time, hail damage can lead to both aesthetic and performance issues, including leaks. 

Don’t wait until hail season to prepare your home. Conduct yearly inspections, take photos of your home throughout the year, and understand the type of protection the products used on your home provide. This will help lessen the confusion of proving claims and dealing with last-minute actions after the storm.   

What to do if your roof is damaged by hail 

If you find damage from hail, start with your insurance company and get an official assessment to ensure their protocols are followed; skipping this step could lead to your claim being denied. Be wary of fly-by-night contractors who show up following storms — the urgency created by your situation may make you vulnerable to scams. 

Your insurance company may be able to provide a list of recommended contractors. Experts at Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions™ also can help you find a pro that will have your best interest in mind and who can recommend the right roofing solution to protect your home for years to come. Vet your contractors by checking out reviews and the Better Business Bureau; ensure they are licensed, bonded and insured. 

The National Insurance Crime Board (NICB) recommends getting more than one estimate and getting everything in writing. 

Upgrade to hail-resistant roofing 

If you’re tired of the vicious cycle of hail worry and roof replacement, putting on a new roof after a storm is the perfect time to talk with your contractor and Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions about upgrading to impact-resistant roofing material. Newpoint™ Concrete Roof Tile and Unified Steel™ Stone-Coated Roofing from Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions carry a Class 4 Impact Rating for protection against hail, helping to reduce the need for repairs that often lead to increased insurance premiums. 

In addition, some roofing options can be used with a Westlake Royal™ Cool Roof System that helps heat escape, conserves energy and provides meaningful long-term home energy bill savings. The products come with limited lifetime and/or fully transferable warranties. 

To learn more about these product upgrades and for additional resources, visit www.westlakeroyalroofing.com/hail-homeowner. 

Original article source: Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions