Understanding Hail Damage: What Homeowners Need to Know

As a homeowner, it’s essential to protect your biggest investment—your home. While Chicago’s vibrant seasons offer stunning scenery, they can also bring damaging weather. One of the biggest threats to your home, particularly your roof, comes from hailstorms. Hail may seem harmless, but those icy pellets can wreak havoc on your roof and lead to costly repairs down the road. In this post, we’ll explain what every homeowner needs to know about hail damage, how to spot it, and the steps to take if your roof has been impacted.

What Happens to Your Roof During a Hailstorm?

When a hailstorm strikes, your roof takes the brunt of the impact. Hailstones, which can range in size from small pebbles to large golf balls, fall with significant force. This can cause:

• Shingle Damage: The surface of shingles can be cracked, broken, or dented, especially in areas like Chicago where severe storms are common. This weakens the shingles' ability to protect your home.
• Granule Loss: Hail impacts can strip the protective granules off your shingles, exposing the underlayers to UV rays, moisture, and further deterioration.
• Punctures: In extreme cases, hail can puncture the roof, leaving it vulnerable to water leaks and other weather-related damage.

The risk of hail damage increases when previous wear and tear have weakened your roof. Without regular maintenance or prompt repairs, even minor hail damage can result in major problems such as water infiltration, mold growth, and structural decay.

Recognizing the Signs of Hail Damage

While the aftermath of a hailstorm may leave visible clues, some hail damage isn’t always easy to spot. Here are the most common signs to look for:

• Dented or Cracked Shingles: A close inspection of your roof might reveal cracked, broken, or dented shingles. These cracks may allow water to seep in, causing leaks over time.
• Missing Granules: After a hailstorm, check for an accumulation of granules in your gutters. Granules protect the shingles from harmful UV rays, and their loss can shorten your roof’s lifespan.
• Roof Leaks: Water spots on your ceiling or walls shortly after a hailstorm are a telltale sign of roof leaks, likely caused by hail damage. Leaks can lead to further problems like mold, mildew, and rot.
• Damaged Gutters and Siding: Hail can also dent gutters, siding, and other exterior features. If you notice any damage to these areas, it’s a strong indication that your roof may have also been affected.

Steps to Take After a Hailstorm

After a hailstorm, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage to your home. Here’s what you should do:

1. Inspect Your Roof: If it’s safe, conduct a visual inspection of your roof from the ground, looking for any visible damage. Alternatively, call a professional roofer to carry out a more thorough inspection.
2. Document the Damage: If you notice any damage, take pictures and videos to document the extent of the problem. This will be important when filing an insurance claim.
3. Check Your Insurance Policy: Review your homeowner's insurance policy to understand your coverage. Most policies cover hail damage, but every plan is different, so it's important to know what to expect.
4. Get a Professional Roof Inspection: Hire a professional roofing contractor, like Eco Roofs Solar & More, to conduct a detailed inspection. They’ll assess the extent of the damage and provide you with a repair estimate.
5. Schedule Repairs: If your roof has been damaged, it’s critical to get it repaired as soon as possible. Delaying repairs can result in more significant issues, including water leaks, structural damage, and increased repair costs down the road.

The Importance of a Professional Roof Inspection

After a storm, it’s tempting to try and assess roof damage on your own. However, hiring a professional to do a thorough inspection is crucial. Not only can roofing professionals spot hard-to-see damage, but they can also provide documentation for your insurance claim. At Eco Roofs Solar & More, we specialize in hail damage assessment and repair. Our team will evaluate your roof and provide you with a comprehensive report that you can submit to your insurance company.

Why Choose Eco Roofs Solar & More?

At Eco Roofs Solar & More, we understand that dealing with hail damage can be stressful. That’s why we offer top-notch services that are tailored to the unique weather challenges Chicago homeowners face. Our roofing solutions are built to withstand Chicago’s changing seasons and include energy-efficient options like solar roofing that can help reduce your energy bills while keeping your home protected.

When you choose Eco Roofs Solar & More, you’re not just getting repairs—you’re investing in a more sustainable, efficient, and durable roofing solution. We use the latest technology and environmentally friendly materials to ensure your roof lasts for years to come.

Protect Your Home Today

Don’t wait until hail damage worsens. Protect your investment by contacting Eco Roofs Solar & More today for a free inspection. We’ll help you navigate the insurance process and make sure your roof is restored to its best condition.

For more information on dealing with storm damage, you can read this helpful guide from The National Storm Damage Center or learn more about roof maintenance from Roofing Contractor Magazine.