Hailstorms are a fact of life in Oklahoma, and when one hits, your roof is usually the first to take the punishment. Even small hailstones can leave significant damage over time, including cracking shingles, damaging flashing, or causing hidden leaks that show up weeks or even months later.
If you suspect hail damage to your roof, taking quick and informed steps can protect your home and save you from expensive repairs later on. Here’s what to do after a hailstorm hits your home:
Stay Safe and Wait for the Storm to Pass
Safety comes first. Don’t rush outside during or immediately after a storm. Downed power lines, debris, slippery surfaces, or additional hail could still be a danger. Once the weather clears and it’s safe, you can begin assessing the situation.
Check for Visible Signs of Roof Damage (From the Ground)
Do a preliminary inspection from a safe distance. Look for:
- Dents or dings in gutters and downspouts
- Shingles that appear cracked, missing, or curled
- Loose granules from shingles in your gutters or around your foundation
- Any obvious holes, sagging, or dark spots on the roof
You don’t need to climb up there yourself. Many signs of hail damage can be seen from the ground or with binoculars.
Look for Interior Water Leaks
Sometimes, roof damage isn’t immediately visible outside. After a storm, check inside your attic or top-floor ceilings for:
- Water stains
- Dripping water or damp insulation
- Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
Leaks caused by hail damage can lead to mold or structural issues if ignored.
Photograph and Document the Damage
Take photos of any damage you spot, both inside and out. This will come in handy when filing an insurance claim. Make note of the date and time of the storm and any immediate effects it had on your property.
Call Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve documented the damage, notify your homeowner’s insurance provider. Most policies cover hail damage, but it’s best to get the claim process started early. Your insurance company may schedule an adjuster to inspect the roof.
Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Don’t rely solely on what you can see from the ground. A professional roofing contractor, like our team at TaylorMade Exteriors, can conduct a full inspection to identify both obvious and hidden damage. We’ll provide a thorough report you can use to support your insurance claim.
Bonus Tip: It’s a good idea to have your contractor present when the insurance adjuster inspects your roof. We can advocate for you and make sure all damage is accounted for.
Get an Estimate and Plan Your Repairs
If repairs or replacement are necessary, your contractor will provide an estimate that outlines the scope of work. At TaylorMade Exteriors, we make this process simple and transparent. We help you understand your options, work with your insurance, and keep your home protected every step of the way.
Don’t Delay Repairs
It’s tempting to put off repairs, especially if the damage doesn’t seem severe. But even small cracks or missing shingles can lead to costly water damage. Acting quickly ensures your roof is watertight and your home is safe from the next storm.
Beware of “Storm Chasers”
After big storms, out-of-town contractors often swoop into the area offering quick fixes. Be cautious. Many disappear after collecting payment, leaving you with subpar workmanship and no accountability. Work with a local, licensed, and insured company you can trust, like TaylorMade Exteriors.
Get Help from Oklahoma’s Hail Damage Experts
At TaylorMade Exteriors, we specialize in storm damage repair and roof replacement throughout the Oklahoma City metro area, including Mustang, Yukon, Moore, and beyond. Whether you’re dealing with obvious hail damage or you just want peace of mind after a storm, we’re here to help.
- Free Roof Inspections
- Insurance Claim Assistance
- Local, Trusted, and Fully Insured
- Quality Work Backed by Warranty
Worried your roof may have hail damage? Let us take a look.
Call us today at (405) 896-4949 or visit us at TaylorMadeExteriors.com to schedule your free inspection.
Protect your home. Repair your roof. Restore your peace of mind.
