After your initial roof installation, it can be easy to forget about this crucial component of your house. The truth of the matter is that roofs need regular checkups just like any other feature of your home. This is especially true after a hailstorm. Here are three ways to address serious hail damage to your roof.

1. Assessing Damage

Even the sturdiest roof can suffer during a hailstorm. Possible forms of damage can include dented gutters and downspouts, leaks in your attic, missing shingles, damaged siding, cracked skylights, and wear and tear on your chimney. While it might be tempting to check for the results of the storm yourself, there's no substitute for a hail damage inspection. In fact, smaller hailstones can cause damage that isn't immediately visible. Your local roofer brings years of training to help detect even the smallest spots that need repair. Their experience can help determine the best course of action to remedy any issues with your roof.

2. Filing Your Insurance Claim

A homeowners insurance policy can be a valuable resource when dealing with hail damage. According to an internal analysis by State Farm, the insurer paid out over $3.1 billion in hail claims over the course of 2020. However, insurance companies often have strict deadlines for submitting your claim. Hail damage inspections can help you assess your approximate repair costs and complete the proper documentation; that way, you can file your claim in a timely manner.

3. Preventing Further Damage

It's important to detect damage right away, but ultimately, the goal is to fix the damage as soon as possible. Issues that begin as simple fixes may grow extensive if ignored. A damaged section of roof or shingles can expand into major leaks or ice dams, which in turn can result in mold growth, rotting wood, and even electrical issues. These fixes take much longer to complete and will be significantly more expensive than if they had been addressed shortly after the storm.

Many homeowners tend to take the roof over their heads for granted. Scheduling a hail damage inspection is an invaluable and often free resource to protect your home and your loved ones after a storm. Call Home Team Roofing today for help with your roofing needs.