Hailstorms can strike with little warning, leaving behind a trail of damage that’s not always easy to spot—especially on your roof. If your home in Troy, MI was recently hit by hail, your roofing system may have sustained more harm than you realize. Even small hailstones can compromise the integrity of your shingles, which can eventually lead to water infiltration, insulation damage, and costly repairs. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential steps you should take right after a hailstorm to protect your roof and your investment.
Step 1: Conduct a Ground-Level Inspection
Your first move after a hailstorm should be a safe, ground-level inspection. You don’t need to climb a ladder—just walk around your home and look for:
- Shingle granules collecting in gutters or at the base of downspouts
- Dented gutters, downspouts, or siding
- Pieces of torn or dislodged shingles on the ground
- Damaged window screens or outdoor furniture
These are often signs that your roof took a direct hit and may have unseen issues.
Step 2: Schedule a Professional Roof Inspection
Even if the damage isn’t obvious, hail can bruise shingles, crack seals, or loosen fasteners. These types of damage may not leak immediately, but over time, they can allow water to seep in.
That’s why it’s crucial to call a certified roofing expert for a thorough inspection. A trained eye can detect impact marks, granule loss, and potential breaches in the roofing system that might go unnoticed otherwise.
180 Contractors Roofing & Siding provides detailed, post-storm inspections in Troy, MI, and documents all findings with photos, helping you take the next steps with confidence.
Step 3: Review Your Insurance Policy
Most homeowners’ insurance policies cover hail damage, but you need to act quickly. Start by reviewing your policy’s section on storm damage, then call your provider to begin the claim process.
Ask about:
- The deadline for submitting a claim
- Whether you need multiple repair estimates
- What documentation is required (photos, inspection reports, etc.)
- Whether depreciation or deductibles will apply
Be sure to mention the inspection results and any visible damage you’ve already observed.
Step 4: File a Claim and Schedule the Adjuster Visit
Once your claim is filed, your insurance company will send an adjuster to evaluate the damage. This step is crucial because your payout depends on what the adjuster finds.
It’s a smart idea to have your roofing contractor present during the adjuster’s visit. A contractor like 180 Contractors Roofing & Siding can advocate for your needs, point out damage the adjuster might miss, and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Step 5: Choose Quality Repairs, Not Just the Cheapest Option
After you receive your insurance settlement, you’ll need to choose a roofing company to handle repairs or replacement. Avoid “storm chasers” or out-of-town contractors offering cheap deals. These companies often use inferior materials, cut corners, and disappear after the job is done.
Choose a local, reputable contractor who offers a workmanship guarantee and uses trusted brands like Owens Corning, which produces durable, hail-resistant shingles with impact ratings designed to withstand extreme weather.
Long-Term Impact of Ignoring Hail Damage
Some homeowners delay repairs if they don’t notice leaks right away—but this can be a costly mistake. Minor hail damage weakens your roofing system and shorten the life of your shingles. Over time, compromised shingles can curl, split, and allow water into your attic or walls.
In Troy’s variable climate, moisture infiltration during the winter can also lead to ice damming and mold growth. The sooner you address hail damage, the better protected your home will be.
Protecting Your Roof Going Forward
While you can’t prevent hail, you can make your roof more resilient by:
- Choosing impact-resistant shingles during your next replacement
- Scheduling regular inspections after major storms
- Keeping gutters clean to ensure proper water flow
- Trimming nearby branches that could fall on your roof during windstorms
These steps will reduce your long-term maintenance costs and extend your roof’s lifespan.
Final Thoughts
Hail damage may not always be visible, but it poses a real threat to your roof’s integrity. Acting quickly—starting with a ground inspection, followed by a professional evaluation and an insurance claim—can prevent bigger problems later.
If your roof in Troy, MI was hit by hail, don’t wait for leaks to appear.
Contact 180 Contractors Roofing & Siding for a no-obligation inspection and expert guidance on repairs, insurance claims, and quality roofing options.
Read also our blog:
Why Gutters Play a Crucial Role in Roof Health
