Addressing Hail Damage to Roof Materials After Severe April Storms

Every homeowner in the Atlanta area is dealing with the effects of the storm that hit the area on April 20. While most were spared the impact of a tornado that threatened Georgia, homes from East Cobb all the way to Suwanee were pounded by a punishing spring storm that left over one-and-a-half inches of hail in Roswell. Here is how to address hail damage to roof materials and other parts of your home following this storm.

Identifying Roof Damage by Hail

Even when you don’t see damage to a roof at first glance, any hail storm can create long-term problems for a home. There are time limits on how long you have to file an insurance claim — usually one year from the event — so remember that hidden issues could come back to haunt you down the road though things seem fine today.

If your home was pelted by hail, take a look for any shingles or bits of roofing missing. Whenever there is penetration of asphalt shingles or wooden shake, your home becomes vulnerable to leaks, water damage, rot and a compromised structure. Dark spots on your roof and curling shingles are signs of moisture damage. Damage to metal flashing, siding and gutters likewise can lead to water damage when aspects of the structure are vulnerable.

Dealing With Hail Damage to Roof

Your first priority after a heavy storm should be assessing the damage, which is only possible with the help of a qualified roofing contractor. Roofers will check each element of your roof, point out problems that resulted from the storm and inform you how to proceed with repairs and insurance claims. This service is provided free of charge by Findlay Roofing.

Have your homeowners insurance policy out for reference as you go through the process. In many cases, storm damage is covered with a policy, even including the removal of a downed tree on your property. The extent of coverage depends on the specific policy. Since this hail storm and similar events are considered “acts of God,” premiums usually will not rise because of a claim.

If you experienced hail damage to roof materials on your home as a result of recent storms, contact Findlay Roofing for a free analysis and advice on necessary repairs. Have the pros at Findlay handle your roofing needs before the insurance claim term expires.

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