Hail damage can happen anywhere that has a threat of thunderstorms, and they are getting more common. Hail causes a lot of damage to both property and crops every year. The damages are increasing because homes are getting bigger and being built closer to each other. This causes more homes to be damaged by fewer storms. It has become part of life for many people, and the best you can do is take measures to minimize the damage and know when there is damage.

Homeowners have been forced to replace their roofing because of hail damage. What can you do if you suspect you have hail damage? When strong currents of air carry water droplets up until they freeze, it forms hail. The hails become heavy, and the more the cycles it goes through, the bigger it is going to be. Hail is considered to be damaging when it is about the size of a half-dollar coin. Most of them do not have smooth ages, which increases the level of damage.

The roofing material

Different roofing materials will be differently affected by hail. Some of the most popular roofing materials are asphalt, metal, cedar shake, and ceramic tile shingles. As the roofing material ages, it becomes more susceptible to hail damage. Older roofing might be slightly damaged, but it will add up until it reaches a point where it gives in. The type of roofing material determines how long a roof can last.

How to Tell Roof Hail Damage

Many homeowners don’t repair roofs damaged by hail storms because they cannot easily see the damage. A small hail storm can end up causing a lot of damage down the road. The small patch of asphalt exposed after a hail storm can start deteriorating after being exposed to UV radiation. By the time you start noticing the damage, it is too late to make an insurance claim. You should never climb to the roof after a hailstorm because it is very risky. It is even riskier when the ice and water is still around. If you want to tell hail damage, look at your;

- Gutters and downspouts
- Decks and painted wood surfaces
- Siding
- The outdoor air condenser unit
- Mailbox
- Plants, flowerbeds, and grass bushes
- Windows, casings, and windowsills

If there is damage to these parts of the home, it could be a sign that there is hail damage on your roof too.
Check your neighborhood. Is there damage to the lawns? Are there dents on cars? If your neighbors are replacing or repairing the roofing after hail damage, there is a good chance your roof is damaged too.

If you suspect hail damage, start collecting evidence as soon as possible. Insurance companies tend to be honest, but it is a good idea to have records that will help you if the claim is unfairly rejected or mishandled.

Keep a record of correspondence with inspectors, roofers, and insurance adjusters. If the conversation was over the phone, note down the time of call, what you talked about, and the outcome.You should also note the time of the hail storm. Insurance companies will use this information when verifying with weather records.

Taking photos of your property, home, and yard. It is a good idea to get a roof inspection before you call your insurance company. Most roofing companies have free roof inspections. You will have peace of mind knowing the roof has been inspected by a roofing expert. Call your insurance company. Keeping records is important because it makes things easier for both you and the insurance company. If there are any expenses you encountered from the hail damage, like being forced to stay in a hotel, then make sure you keep receipts and tell the insurance company.