A severe hail storm can cause damage to your roof, and not repairing the damage can lead to leaks in your home and even more severe problems with the roof structure. Here are some things you should know about hail damage and roofing repair.

Signs Of Damage

You may not be able to safely get onto your roof to inspect for damage after a hail storm, but there are a few signs you can look for that might indicate a problem. Inspect your gutters for signs of dents and holes. If the gutters have been damaged, there may be a good chance that some of your roofing shingles have been impacted as well. You can also look at the ceiling in your attic to detect any dampness or moisture in exposed insulation or drips coming from the ceiling. Fascia and soffits may also show signs of damage that could indicate roof damage.

To Repair Or Replace

Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able to replace just a few damaged shingles on your roof. However, if the roof goes without repairs for an extended period of time, you may need to replace a portion of your roof entirely. Your contractor can inspect the shingles to determine the extent of the damage. If one or two shingles have become dislodged, they can typically be replaced relatively easily. This is particularly true for interlocking shingles, which may not need to be cut to fit your roof. If you have extra shingles from your roof's initial installation, be sure to let your contractor know, as they can be used during the replacement.

Contacting The Insurance Adjuster

Depending on the extent of the damage and the estimate provided by your contractor, you may decide to file a claim with your homeowners insurance company. It's important to contact the insurance company right away, before any actual work is completed. You don't have to file the claim immediately, but your insurance carrier may have time limits on how long you have to report damage. If the estimate to repair the hail damage is less than the cost of your deductible, you may want to simply pay for the repairs on your own.

Hail damage can be severe, and it can lead to leaks in your home. These leaks, if left unattended, can cause mold growth and damage to the structure of your home. Don't ignore potential damage to your roof, and contact a roofing contractor to perform an inspection if you suspect a problem after a severe hail storm.