Hail, Wind, or Storm Damage?
The Charlotte area is no stranger to severe weather, including hailstorms. Hail can cause significant damage to roofs, ranging from minor dents and cracks to more serious punctures and leaks. The impact of hail damage depends on the size and intensity of the hail, as well as the type of roofing material. For example, asphalt shingles are more susceptible to damage than metal roofs. Insurance typically covers hail damage to roofs, but there are usually deductibles and coverage limits. It’s important to document any damage with photos and videos and contact your insurance company promptly.
Do you need a new roof due to storm damage?
Hail’s impact on roofs varies greatly. Small hailstones may only bruise shingles, leaving cosmetic damage. Larger hailstones can crack or break shingles, compromising their protective layer. Severe hailstorms can even puncture roofing materials, leading to leaks and water damage. Granules dislodged by hail can accelerate shingle deterioration.
Flat roofs may experience denting or tears in the membrane. Hail can also damage flashing, gutters, and vents, creating entry points for water. The extent of damage depends on hail size, wind speed, and roof material, necessitating thorough inspections after storms.
How we diagnose your roof for repair due to hail, wind, or storm damage
Not all damaged or leaky roofs need to be replaced. Sometimes, expert diagnosis and timely repairs are all that’s required to keep your roof in tip-top shape. If you have concerns about the integrity of your roof, our first step is to come out and do a full roof inspection to assess the extent of the damage and identify if there are any leaks. Not all leaks and roof damage require the need to file an insurance claim, and can sometimes occur as the result of improper installation. If that is the case, we can simply prepare an estimate for the cost of repairing your Charlotte or Raleigh area roof.
However, not all roofing concerns are so straightforward, particularly when it comes to storm-related damage. In that case, we’re still your go-to roof inspection and replacement service in North Carolina. After our experts inspect your roof with our advanced Eagle View Satellite Imagery and we determine the damage is due to a storm, you will need to file an insurance claim. Our team can guide you through the whole process – we have experience working with homeowners at every step of filing insurance claims, which means we can help guide you through any questions you may have, expedite the claims process, and help you maximize your claim.
Why Choose Horizon For a New Roof?
How do you know if you need roof repair services due to hail, wind, or storm damage?
If you’re worried that your roof might need repair, it helps to be aware of some telltale signs.
You see debris. This is most likely to occur after a storm, so if you’re starting to notice pieces of shingles in your yard, it might be time to call an expert.
You notice a leak. There’s no such thing as a small leak, as even a minor infiltration of water can escalate to a much larger problem. Do not wait to call the experts at Horizon if you notice a leak anywhere in your home.
Shingles are missing. If you can see that shingles are missing from your roof, it’s time to call your local Horizon roofers in Charlotte or Raleigh for a repair.
There are shingle cinders in your downspouts. Noticing shingle bits or cinders in your downspouts is a sign your roof needs repair.
You notice cracked or lifted shingles. Checking out your shingles and seeing cracks or lifts can be a definite sign your roof needs repairs due to damage.
You see bruised or discolored shingles. The force of hailstones can create darkened soft spots in shingles causing visible discoloration.
You see flapping shingles. Strong winds can get up under the shingles breaking them and causing them to flap and expose the nails and glue underneath.
Asphalt granules are in gutters. This is due to strong hail, wind, or storm damage on your shingles that could end up clogging gutters over time.
Types of Roof Repair
We can match the type of materials your roof is made out of, and offer roof repair in:
Roof Storm Damage FAQs
Storm damage isn’t always visible from the ground. Professional inspections are recommended. Look for:
- Missing or damaged shingles.
- Dents or damage to gutters, vents, and flashing.
- Granule loss from shingles.
- Water spots on ceilings or in the attic.
It’s generally not recommended due to safety risks and the difficulty of identifying hidden damage. Professional roofers throughout Charlotte have the expertise and tools to assess damage accurately.
Hidden damage can lead to future leaks and costly repairs. Hail damage, in particular, can be subtle.
Most homeowners’ insurance policies in Charlotte cover storm damage, but it depends on your specific policy. Commonly covered damages include those caused by hail, wind, and falling debris. One of our reps can guide you through the insurance process.
Timeframes vary, but it’s typically within one year of the storm. Some policies may have shorter deadlines. Contact your insurance provider immediately.
Generally, filing a claim for storm damage (an “act of God”) shouldn’t automatically raise your premiums. However, if a large number of claims are made in your area from the same storm, it could affect the whole regions premiums.
- ACV (Actual Cash Value): The depreciated value of your roof.
- RCV (Replacement Cost Value): The cost to replace your roof with a new one. RCV insurance is designed to pay the full replacement cost.
In most cases you do not have to. You have the right to select the contractor you wish to use. If you work with Horizon for your storm damage claim, we have a ton of experience in Charlotte and on guiding you through the entire process.