Hail Season is Coming: Is Your Roof Ready?
As summer approaches, Colorado residents prepare for the inevitable hailstorms that come with the season. Roofing contractors report a surge in business inquiries following hail season every year. In fact, Colorado has the second-highest number of hail damage claims in the United States, behind Texas.
According to the Rocky Mountain Insurance Information Association, there were 41,000 hail damage claims in Colorado in 2018, with an estimated $2 billion in damages. The majority of these claims were for damage to roofing. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reported that in 2020 there were over 180,000 hail damage claims in Colorado during the months of April–September with an average claim cost of $7,595.
Learn more about how hail impacts Colorado homeowners every year and what you can do to protect your home from hail storms
How does Hail Damage Roofing?
Hailstones can range in size from small pebbles to large grapefruits, and they can fall from the sky at high velocities. The severity of the damage depends on the size of the hailstone, the intensity of the storm, and the age and condition of the roof.
When hailstones hit a roof, they can cause a range of damage, including:
Dented or damaged shingles: Asphalt shingles are the most commonly used roofing materials in Colorado. They can withstand the impact of small-sized hailstones, but larger ones can crack them. Hail can also wear out the granules on shingles, which protect it from UV rays and other environmental factors. Damaged granules can lead to further cracking and eventual water damage.
Metal roofing can dent and disfigure when hit by large hailstones. Hail can cause leaks and rusting, which can spread to other parts of the roof. Tile roofs may withstand the larger hailstones' impact, but the underlayment beneath the tile can still get damaged.
Broken or cracked tiles: Hailstones can crack or break roofing tiles, which can compromise the integrity of the roof.
Damage to the underlayment: The underlayment is the layer of material that sits between the roofing materials and the decking. Hailstones can damage the underlayment, which can lead to leaks and other issues.
Damage to gutters and downspouts: Hailstones can also damage gutters and downspouts, which can lead to drainage issues and water damage to the home.
How to Protect Your Roofing in Hail Storms.
Protecting your roof from hail damage starts with proper maintenance and preparation. Here are some tips to keep your roof in good condition and minimize hail damage:
Regularly inspect your roof for damage or signs of wear and tear. Look for loose shingles, cracks in tiles, or other issues that may compromise the integrity of your roof.
Trim back trees or other overhanging branches that could fall onto your roof during a hailstorm.
Consider upgrading to impact-resistant roofing materials. These materials are designed to withstand hail damage and may be a good investment if you live in an area prone to hailstorms.
Install hail guards or screens on gutters and downspouts to prevent debris from accumulating and clogging the system.
Have a professional roofer inspect and repair any damage as soon as possible after a hailstorm.
How to File an Insurance Claim for Hail Damage on Roofing
When regular maintenance and prevention fails, and your roof has been damaged by hail, it's important to file an insurance claim as soon as possible. Here are the steps to take:
Document the damage: Take photos of the damage to your roof and any other parts of your home that were affected by the hailstorm.
Contact your insurance company: Call your insurance company to report the damage and initiate the claims process.
Schedule an inspection: Your insurance company will likely send an adjuster to inspect the damage and assess the cost of repairs.
Get estimates: Get estimates from roofing contractors for the cost of repairs. Make sure the estimates are detailed and include all necessary repairs.
Review your policy: Review your insurance policy to make sure you understand what is covered and what is not covered. Pay attention to deductibles and any limitations on coverage.
File the claim: Once you have all the necessary information, file the claim with your insurance company. Be prepared to provide documentation and additional information as needed.
Preparing for hail season in Colorado is essential for every homeowner. Hail damage to roofing can be expensive to repair, and filing an insurance claim can be a complex process. By taking steps to prepare your roof before hail season and knowing what to do in case of damage, you can save yourself time, money, and stress. Protect your family and property by staying informed about weather conditions, taking precautions to protect your property, and being prepared to act quickly if hail damage occurs. By following these tips, you can stay ahead of the game and protect your home from the unpredictable nature of Colorado's hail season.
Have Roof Damage and Need to File a Claim?
All in One Contractors is here to help you navigate the complexities of insurance claims with our trusted partners. Our team of experts can guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the coverage you deserve. Don't wait until it's too late - call us today at (303) 663-5605.
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