Areas of Your Home in Orland Park Most Vulnerable to Hail Damage

Hail storms are one of the most destructive forces of nature, capable of causing visible and hidden damage to your home. From dented gutters to cracked shingles, hail can easily inflict serious damage on various parts of your household. Some areas, such as the roof and the siding, are particularly vulnerable. This article will provide more information on the areas of your home most susceptible to hail damage and how to address them.

Start by checking the roof.

Has your home in Orland Park recently been struck by hail? It’s crucial to take immediate action! The first step is to inspect the roof. Keep in mind that inspecting your roof can be dangerous, especially if you lack the proper knowledge, skills, and equipment. Experts suggest that it’s better to call a professional roofing contractor, such as Davis Roofing, to perform a roof inspection instead of doing it yourself.

When inspecting your roof, look for any type of damage, including:

• Cracked or missing shingles.
• Damage to vents and gutters.
• Dented or bent flashing.
• Any signs of water damage.
• There are additional issues that need to be addressed.

Check your windows and glass panels.

Hailstorms can cause significant damage to windows and glass panels. Hailstones can be quite large and can shatter glass or cause cracks and chips, compromising the integrity of the windows and posing a safety risk. Checking for hail damage allows you to identify any issues early on and take the necessary measures to repair or replace the affected windows, ensuring the safety and security of your property.

Inspect the siding.

Checking your siding or exterior walls for dents or damage caused by large hailstones is crucial for maintaining the integrity and aesthetics of your home. Hailstorms can be quite destructive, and even small hailstones can cause significant damage to your siding. Neglecting to address hail damage can lead to further issues, such as:

• Water leaks
• Mold growth
• Compromised structural stability

By checking for any damages after a hailstorm, you can take the necessary steps to repair or replace the affected areas promptly.

Check all other outdoor structures susceptible to hail damage.

Outdoor structures such as decks, patios, or fences are susceptible to damage from hail storms, especially if they are made of materials that are easily dented or cracked. Damage to these structures not only affects the appearance of these outdoor amenities but also compromises their structural integrity. Regularly inspect these structures for hail damage and address any issues promptly to prevent further deterioration. Taking necessary precautions, such as using durable materials and implementing protective measures, can also help mitigate potential damage caused by hail.

Notice any damage to your roof? Here’s What to Do

Avoid any DIY fixes.

If you notice any hail damage to your roof, resist the temptation to try to fix it yourself. While it may seem cost-effective and convenient, doing so can actually result in further damage or safety risks. Hail damage can weaken the integrity of your roof, and attempting to repair the damage without proper knowledge or equipment can exacerbate the problem. It is always best to leave roof repairs to professionals who are trained and experienced in dealing with hail damage. This ensures that the repairs are done correctly and that your roof is restored to its optimal condition, minimizing the risk of future issues.

Document the damage.

As you identify the areas of your household damaged by hail, document everything by taking pictures and videos. Use your smartphone to capture the damage from different angles, including close-up shots of individual shingles and wide shots of the entire roof. Don’t focus only on the roof; include documentation of damage to windows, siding, and gutters. These documents will be important when you contact your insurance company.

Reach out to your insurance company.

Once you have inspected your home and documented all the damage, the next step is to contact your insurance company to file a claim. Your homeowners’ insurance representative will send an adjuster to your household to assess the damage and determine the cost of repairs. Provide them with the pictures and videos you previously took.

Make some temporary repairs.

Insurance companies can sometimes take a while to process claims, so it is important to make temporary repairs to prevent any further damage. Cover any exposed areas with plywood to keep the water out. Do everything possible to temporarily protect your household until you are ready for major repairs.

Contact a Professional Roofing Company

Eventually, you will need to make permanent repairs to the roof, siding, and other areas of your home. When this time comes, choose a reputable roofing company with experience in home damage repairs, such as Davis Roofing in Orland Park. They will use high-quality equipment and materials to repair your home and restore it to its pre-damage condition. They will also help you learn how to prevent further damage from hail storms and what to do to ensure your home retains its value.

Reacting promptly after a hail storm is vital to protecting your household and everyone who lives in it. Be smart and cautious, avoid DIY fixes, and remember that a professional and reputable roofing company can help you restore the value of your household.