As a professional storm damage restoration expert, I’ve seen first-hand the devastating impact hail and wind can have on homes. While many people tend to underestimate these forces of nature, it is crucial to take them seriously to avoid potential ongoing issues. In this blog article, I’ll share with you some valuable tips to help you understand hail and wind damage, and what you need to do next to ensure the safety and structural integrity of your home.
Understanding Hail and Wind Damage
Hailstorms and high winds can cause significant damage to a home’s exterior and interior. When these elements combine, the resulting damage can be even more severe. Some common types of damage include:
Roof damage: Hailstones can dent, puncture or crack shingles, while strong winds can tear them off or lift them up, allowing water to infiltrate your home.
Siding damage: Hail and wind can dent, crack, or chip the siding, compromising its ability to protect your home from water and pests.
Window damage: High winds can cause flying debris to crack or break windows, while hail can also cause direct impact damage.
Structural damage: Extreme winds can cause structural issues, such as shifting foundations, or even total collapse in severe cases.
What to Do After Hail and Wind Damage
Assess the damage: Once it’s safe to do so, inspect the exterior of your home for any visible signs of damage. Document everything with photos and notes, as this will be helpful when filing an insurance claim.
Check for interior damage: Inspect your home’s interior, focusing on ceilings, walls, and floors. Look for any signs of water infiltration or structural issues. Again, take photos and notes to document the damage.
Hire a professional storm damage restoration expert: To ensure the proper assessment and repair of your home, it’s essential to hire a professional with experience in dealing with hail and wind damage. They can help identify hidden damage, properly assess the situation, and provide an accurate account of the damage. This is particularly important since general roofers may not deal with insurance claims as frequently. Be sure to ask about their experience with insurance claims when hiring someone for this type of project.
Contact your insurance company: Once you have an accurate assessment from a trusted expert, notify your insurance company as soon as possible, and provide them with the documentation of the damage. They will guide you through the claims process and may send an adjuster to assess the damage further. If the repair cost is less than your deductible, you might decide not to file a claim, which is why having an accurate assessment from a professional is crucial.
Prevent additional damage: If possible, take steps to prevent further damage by covering broken windows or placing tarps over damaged roofs. Remember, however, that your safety should always come first.
Stay vigilant for potential issues: Even after repairs have been completed, keep an eye out for any signs of ongoing problems, such as water infiltration, mold growth, or structural issues. Address these problems promptly to avoid more extensive damage.
In Conclusion
Hail and wind damage to homes should never be taken lightly, as they can lead to severe ongoing issues if not addressed promptly and professionally. By following the steps outlined above and working with a trusted storm damage restoration expert, you can ensure the safety and integrity of your home while minimizing any potential future problems. Remember, when it comes to your home and family’s well-being, it’s always better to be proactive and prepared.
